By Eunice Emeyazia
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law the Federal Medical Centres (Amendment) (No. 2) Act, 2026, paving the way for the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The development marks a significant milestone for Delta South Senatorial District, which has long advocated for a federal tertiary healthcare institution to serve its growing population and address healthcare challenges in the oil-producing region.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District and sponsor of the legislation, described the presidential assent as a historic achievement that signals a new era of equitable development and improved access to quality healthcare in the district.
In a statement, the senator expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the bill, saying the move demonstrates the administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and addressing regional disparities.
He also thanked the leadership and members of the National Assembly for supporting the bill through the legislative process, as well as key stakeholders and supporters who encouraged the initiative.
According to the senator, the establishment of the FMC in Oleh is particularly significant because it will be the first federal medical centre in Delta South Senatorial District. He noted that communities in the district, despite their substantial contributions to Nigeria’s oil wealth, have for years grappled with inadequate access to advanced medical services.
“The Federal Medical Centre will serve as a beacon of hope, delivering quality healthcare services and contributing meaningfully to the well-being and prosperity of our people,” he said.
Legislative records show that the bill had its first reading in the Senate on November 7, 2023, less than five months after Senator Joel-Onowakpo was sworn into office. It passed second reading on October 22, 2024, and was subsequently referred to the relevant committee for further scrutiny.
The committee submitted its report on May 21, 2025, after which the bill passed third reading and was transmitted for presidential assent.
Stakeholders in Delta South have welcomed the development, describing it as a major step toward improving healthcare delivery and reducing the burden on residents who often travel long distances to access specialist medical services.
The establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Oleh, is expected to enhance healthcare access, create employment opportunities, stimulate economic activities, and strengthen the overall healthcare system in Delta State and the wider Niger Delta region.
NIM
