By Tolulope Eniola
As part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery and reduce infrastructural deficits, the government of Ondo State has approved the construction of new hospitals in the state.
Briefing journalists after the council meeting, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka said the approvals reflect the commitment of the administration to expanding access to quality healthcare services for residents.
According to him, the State Executive Council approved the construction of a 100-bedded hospital building in Ikare – Akoko, Ore, Okitipupa as well as additional 100-bedded facilities for the state specialist hospital and another specialist hospital in Igbokoda.
He further stated that 50 bedded hospital building in Irele and Igbokoda were also approved, alongside two general hospitals structured as “one-stop shop” facilities where laboratory, X-ray, consultation and pharmacy services would be provided within a single building.
He explained that the cumulative capacity of the approved projects stands at 500 beds, noting that the development is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare services across the state.
According to him, the one-stop shop model is designed to streamline service delivery and eliminate the need for patients to move between different units before receiving treatment.
The commissioner also revealed that the council approved the construction of a new neuropsychiatric hospital, as well as the upgrading of the existing Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Akure.
He said the move was necessitated by the growing burden of mental health challenges and drug abuse, which has placed considerable pressure on existing facilities.
Ajaka noted that the current psychiatric hospital is overstretched, with patients often waiting for months for admission, adding that the new and upgraded facilities would provide modern treatment conditions and improved privacy.
He added that the council approved a revised cost for the contributory health commission building to enable expansion, as well as the procurement and installation of modern medical equipment for the Government House clinic.
The commissioner further stated that plans were underway to install advanced diagnostic equipment, including CT scan, MRI and mammography machines, at the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo.
He noted that the projects are aimed at strengthening the health sector and ensuring that residents have improved access to modern medical facilities.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, said the council also approved the construction of hospital buildings.
He added that the upgrading of a neuropsychiatric hospital in Akure was equally approved, while the contributory health building was reviewed.
In a related development, the State Executive Council also approved a number of traditional leadership appointments and recognitions across various communities.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, said the decisions were in recognition of the critical role traditional rulers play in governance and grassroots mobilisation.
These include the recognition of Onifira – Oke of Oke-Ifira Chieftaincy in Akoko South-East Local Government Area and the appointment of Prince Olugbenga Adewole Aluko as the new Olojoda of Oda in Akure South Local Government Area.
Also approved were the recognition of Owa-Adimula of Oke-Oro Chieftaincy in Akoko North-West Local Government Area to Grade C status and the appointment of four warrant chiefs for the installation of a new Olufira of Ifira.
The council further approved the appointments of Prince Jackson Akinson Okorisa as the new Olu of Jinrinwo in Ilaje Local Government Area; Prince Simeon Oyeleye Obaniyi as the new Olukakumo in Akoko North-East Local Government Area; and Prince Ayodele Akinnadeju as the new Aladeokun of Alade Idanre.
Similarly, Ugbagbe of Oroto was recognised as Sepeluwa of Oroto in Ilaje Local Government Area to Grade C status, while warrant chiefs were appointed for the installation of a new Olofin of Irele.
The commissioner emphasised that the expansion and recognition of traditional institutions would enhance collaboration between government and communities, particularly in addressing security challenges.
He urged traditional rulers to promote peace and stability in their domains, noting that their roles remain vital to effective governance and development at the grassroots level.
Takuro added that the combination of infrastructural development and strengthened traditional institutions would contribute significantly to the overall growth and stability of Ondo State.
Providing an overview, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, said the council took far-reaching decisions across critical sectors, including infrastructure, health and local government.
He noted that the meeting marked the first Executive Council session of the year, coming after the state’s 50th anniversary and the first anniversary of the current administration as an elected government.
Ajanaku added that security also featured in deliberations, noting that the governor had earlier visited a community affected by a recent security breach to sympathise with residents.
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