By Kelvin Ohoror
The people of Benikrukru in Gbaramatu Kingdom have moved a step closer to having a Federal Oil and Gas Hospital, following the bill’s third reading in the Senate.
Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, former Deputy Governor of Delta State, has hailed the development as “a historic victory.”
In his statement, Otuaro thanked Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and the entire Senate for recognising the healthcare needs of host communities long burdened by environmental degradation and oil-related hazards.
He described the hospital as a critical intervention that will serve both oil industry workers and the host population. “This is about fairness and national balance,” Otuaro said.
According to him, “This historic milestone is not just a legislative victory—it is a major step toward correcting years of healthcare neglect in one of the most critical regions to our national economy”.
He asserted that “The Benikrukruu axis, located in the heart of the Niger Delta, is home to a dense concentration of oil facilities, installations, and multinational oil and gas companies whose operations power the economic engine of Nigeria. It is, therefore, only just and necessary that a specialized medical institution be situated within this hub to provide swift, professional, and industry-specific healthcare services”.
He reiterated that “The Federal Oil and Gas Hospital, when fully established, will serve as a critical response center for oil-related occupational hazards, emergencies, and environmental health challenges that are unique to oil-producing communities. It will also cater to the general wellbeing of the hardworking people of the region who, for decades, have sacrificed their environment and livelihoods in the service of national prosperity”.
He noted that under your visionary and progressive leadership, the Nigerian Senate has again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to equity, development, and national balance. We are deeply encouraged by your support and the unity shown by the Senate in this legislative process.
He however express confidence in the leadership of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a man renowned for his unwavering commitment to justice, inclusiveness, and development.
“We are optimistic that he will promptly assent to this bill, knowing fully well the strategic importance of this hospital to the wellbeing of our people and the sustainability of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry”.
He further expressed profound gratitude to Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, senator representing Delta south, for sponsoring the bill, stating that they are very grateful.
He further expressed confidence that President Tinubu would promptly sign the bill into law.
