EBENEZER ADUROKIYA, Warri
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating state of healthcare services in Delta State, urging the Commissioner for Health to embark on an urgent tour of medical facilities to address glaring inadequacies.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its Congress held on 10th February 2026, the Chapel lamented that many general hospitals across the state lack the requisite facilities to adequately attend to patients.
Of particular concern, it noted, is the poor condition of the Dentistry Department at the Ughelli General Hospital and other health centres where dental chairs and tables are broken and in urgent need of replacement.
While acknowledging the state government’s strides in infrastructural development, the journalists stressed that healthcare delivery must not be neglected, as it directly impacts the wellbeing of residents.
The Chapel, however, commended the Delta State Government, led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for its sustained efforts in road construction and rehabilitation across the state.
It specifically applauded the ongoing construction of flyovers at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Junction, DSC Roundabout and Enerhen Junction in Warri and Effurun, noting that the projects would significantly ease traffic congestion and boost socio-economic activities.
It also lauded the groundbreaking ceremony for a flyover at the Otowodo axis in Ughelli and welcomed plans for additional bridges in other parts of the state.
Despite these commendations, the Chapel expressed worry over the deplorable condition of several roads, including the Isaba–Otutuama Road, the Ophorigbala–Ighwurogu axis in Ughelli South Local Government Area, and Idjerhe Roads in Ethiope West Local Government Area.
It made a special appeal for the urgent repair of Eburu Road in Okumagba Layout, where the Union’s new Chapel Secretariat is located.
On housing, the Chapel decried what it described as exploitative practices by house agents, which have allegedly led to arbitrary rent increases—sometimes yearly and, in extreme cases, monthly.
The Union called on the state government to intervene by setting up a committee to address the situation and alleviate the hardship faced by residents.
It urged the government to emulate the Lagos State model, where periodic engagements between government and landlords have resulted in more flexible rent payment systems, allowing tenants to pay rent in instalments of at least six months, depending on their capacity.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the Chapel also called for a level playing field for all political actors.
It advocated the real-time electronic transmission of election results, describing it as a safeguard for credible polls and a measure widely accepted by the public.
The Congress further commiserated with the family of the late Godwin Brotu, a member of the Warri Correspondents’ Chapel until his death.
It also extended condolences to Mr Sunny Ariegue on the passing of his mother, Mrs Office Christiana Ukerume, and to Mrs Njideka Igbani on the demise of her father, Hon. Reuben Chukwudiebele Agba.
The communiqué was signed by members of the Communiqué Drafting Committee: Chido Okafor (Chairman), Elo Edremoda (Secretary), Samuel Ogude and Onyeka Meluwa (Members).
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