In a renewed effort to strengthen healthcare security and improve the lives of citizens affected by neglected tropical diseases, the Delta State government, in partnership with The Carter Center, has commenced free hydrocele surgeries and management of elephantiasis across the state.
Speaking during a press briefing in Asaba, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, said the programme is designed to tackle complications arising from lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic infection spread by mosquitoes that can result in swelling of the limbs and genitals.
“This medical outreach is part of our broader health security initiative under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.
“It aims to alleviate the suffering of patients who face physical disabilities, social stigma, and economic hardship due to lymphatic filariasis,” Onojaeme explained.
According to the commissioner, the free surgeries will be carried out at three major health facilities across the state.
The facilities are the Asaba Specialist Hospital, from October 17-31, 2025; Eku Baptist Government Hospital from October 20 – 31, 2025; and Central Hospital, Warri, from October 20 – 31, 2025.
He urged residents to take advantage of the opportunity, describing it as a continuation of the state’s commitment to equitable healthcare access.
At the official flag-off ceremony held at the Asaba Specialist Hospital, the Executive Director of the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Paul Yinkore, called on development partners to support and expand the programme’s reach.
Dr. Yinkore commended The Carter Center for its long-standing collaboration with the state government, noting that the organization had moved beyond preventive health to providing life-changing surgical interventions.
Read also:
- Delta reiterates commitment towards improving healthcare service delivery
- NGO hosts summit on equitable finnacing for girl-child education in Kano
- Delta first to procure 3 MRI scanners for all senatorial districts –Commissioner
He assured that a team of qualified surgeons and healthcare professionals had been mobilized, adding that no patient would be turned away.
Also speaking, Dr. Emmanuel Emuka, Director of The Carter Center Programme for Edo and Delta States, reaffirmed the foundation’s dedication to eliminating tropical diseases and improving the quality of life for affected communities.
Dr. Emuka explained that The Carter Center, founded by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, has supported Nigeria’s public health initiatives for decades, particularly in the fight against lymphatic filariasis and other neglected tropical diseases.
He encouraged individuals showing symptoms of elephantiasis or hydrocele to report to the nearest healthcare facility for evaluation and treatment, emphasizing that the free surgeries reflect The Carter Center’s enduring mission to build healthier and more resilient communities.
