By Ngozi Nwankwo
Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing public health in Ogoni with the inauguration of a 14-member Technical Planning Committee for the 100-bed Ogoni Specialist Hospital,OSH.
The 100-bed Ogoni Specialist Hospital is a key intervention under the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project,HYPREP,
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony at HYPREP’s Project Coordination Office, the Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, described the hospital as a crucial element of the government’s broader public health strategy.
He noted that the formation of the Technical Planning Committee marks a significant step toward operationalising the hospital within the scheduled timeline.
Zabbey highlighted that the construction of the Ogoni Specialist Hospital and the Buan Hospital are integral parts of HYPREP’s health-focused initiatives aimed at addressing long-standing health challenges in Ogoniland.
These projects, he said, reflect the Federal Government’s resolve to fully implement the recommendations of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Report.
On the mandate of the newly inaugurated Committee, Prof. Zabbey explained:
“This Committee has been strategically composed of multidisciplinary professionals to guide the operationalisation and long-term sustainability of the Ogoni Specialist Hospital.
They are to ensure that all plans align with national healthcare standards, policies, and regulatory frameworks.
In addition, they are tasked with developing a comprehensive roadmap for the hospital’s operations, including an efficient management and governance structure to position the facility as a model for both national and international best practices in public health service delivery.”
Expressing confidence in the team’s expertise, he urged them to work diligently within their four-month timeline to produce actionable recommendations that will ensure the hospital meets the health needs of the Ogoni people and contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s public health sector.
The Project Coordinator also called for sustained stakeholder support for HYPREP, emphasizing the project’s alignment with the President’s directive and the vision of the Honourable Minister of Environment and Chairman of the HYPREP Governing Council.
He acknowledged the expectations of the Ogoni people and assured them that the project is being implemented transparently and with a deep sense of responsibility.
Chairperson of the Committee, Professor Christie N. Mato, applauded HYPREP for the initiative and pledged the Committee’s commitment to delivering on its mandate. She described the hospital as a “beacon of hope” for the Ogoni people.
The Committee is expected to submit its final report, including detailed findings and recommendations, to HYPREP Management.
The report will then be reviewed and forwarded to the Governing Council for consideration and approval.
Currently at 76% completion, the Ogoni Specialist Hospital is designed to house several specialized units, including Oncology, Ophthalmology, Dental, Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Emergency services.
The Committee’s work will also involve outlining the technical specifications and service delivery scope of these units.
The Committee is chaired by Professor Christie N. Mato and includes a mix of academics, medical professionals, community representatives, and technical experts, such as Professors Charles Tobin-West, Vincent Ndemyor, Rosemary Ogu, Kennedy Nkporbu, and others from institutions and organizations like the Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd. and UNEP.