Residents Decry Non-Functional Hospital in Rivers Community on World Health Day
Residents of Elele Alimini in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State have voiced significant concerns over the non-functionality of a public health facility in their community, coinciding with the global observance of World Health Day. Investigations reveal that the sole health facility serving the area has been abandoned for years, now in a state of disrepair with critical infrastructure vandalised by hoodlums.
Community Leaders Express Frustration Over Neglect
The paramount ruler of Elele Alimini, Eze Peter Wagbara, expressed deep frustration, noting that repeated appeals to relevant authorities, including the State House of Assembly, to rehabilitate and reactivate the hospital have yielded no tangible results. "The hospital remains unattended to, inactive and overgrown with weeds. It is unfortunate," he lamented. Residents, particularly women, highlighted the severe hardship caused by the absence of a functional healthcare centre, emphasising that accessing medical care has become increasingly challenging.
According to community members, sick individuals are often forced to travel long distances to Choba or Ahoada, a journey of about one hour and 30 minutes by road, to receive necessary treatment. An elder in the community, Hyginus Opaka, described the situation as dire, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women who must undertake these arduous trips for antenatal care and other medical needs. "This has made life very difficult for everyone. It is worse for pregnant women who have to go long distances each time they need care. When the hospital became inactive, people started vandalising it," he explained.
Reliance on Unaffordable Private Facilities
Another community leader added that residents now heavily depend on private health facilities, which are often unaffordable for many. "We need a nearby functional hospital," he stressed, underscoring the urgent need for accessible and affordable healthcare services in the area. This reliance on private options exacerbates financial strain and limits healthcare access for low-income families.
Governor Fubara's Commitment to Healthcare Improvements
Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery across the state. In a goodwill message marking World Health Day, the governor pledged to prioritise initiatives that guarantee access to quality and affordable healthcare for all residents. He urged citizens to adopt healthy lifestyles, maintain proper hygiene, and take preventive measures against diseases, while also emphasising the role of communities in promoting health awareness.
"On this World Health Day, I extend warm greetings to all Rivers people. Our administration remains committed to improving healthcare delivery, with a focus on accessibility and affordability for all," Fubara stated. He noted that his administration has made significant strides in the sector, including:
- Recruitment of over 2,000 health workers
- Revitalisation of several health facilities
- Establishment of a health insurance scheme
According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, the government has revived and expanded previously abandoned health facilities, including zonal hospitals in Bori, Omoku, Ahoada, and Degema. The statement added that 153 Primary Healthcare Centres have been remodelled across the state to enhance service delivery, while over 400 staff of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital have been promoted, alongside the recruitment of an additional 500 personnel to strengthen the workforce.
World Health Day Theme and Significance
World Health Day is observed annually on April 7 to raise awareness on global health issues. The theme for this year, "Together for Health: Stand with Science," underscores the importance of scientific research, collaboration, and evidence-based solutions in advancing healthcare, while promoting the One Health approach that links human, animal, plant, and environmental health. This global event highlights the critical need for functional healthcare systems, as exemplified by the challenges faced in Elele Alimini.
