By J.O. Abel-Ontop
A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholder in Kogi State, Hon. Alfa Ebune, has commended the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Oluseyi Bamidele Folagbade, for what he described as exemplary leadership and resilience in sustaining healthcare delivery despite prevailing challenges in the sector.
Hon. Ebune, an indigene of Dekina Local Government Area, made the commendation against the backdrop of the ongoing industrial action by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU)—a coalition of pharmacists, laboratory scientists, health records officers, and other allied health professionals—which has disrupted services in several federal tertiary health institutions.
According to him, the Kogi State Specialist Hospital has remained functional and responsive to the healthcare needs of residents largely due to the proactive and strategic leadership of Dr. Folagbade.
He noted that under the CMD’s stewardship, the hospital has recorded significant improvements, including the acquisition and effective deployment of critical medical equipment such as dialysis machines and other essential facilities, improved staff motivation, and stronger collaboration among doctors, nurses, and other health personnel.
“While many hospitals are struggling due to the JOHESU strike, the Kogi State Specialist Hospital has continued to meet health demands. Patients who would ordinarily be referred elsewhere are now being treated successfully within the facility,” Hon. Ebune said.
He added that Dr. Folagbade’s hands-on management style has helped address critical medical cases promptly, reducing avoidable referrals and improving patient outcomes across the state.
Hon. Ebune also commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for prioritising the health sector as a major pillar of his administration’s development agenda, noting that the Governor’s focus on healthcare delivery has created an enabling environment for hospitals and medical professionals to perform optimally.
He further praised the Governor for appointing Dr. Folagbade and other competent professionals to strategic positions within the health sector, as well as deploying capable and credible hands across other critical sectors of governance. According to him, these merit-based appointments have contributed significantly to improved service delivery and the steady turnaround being recorded across the state.
Hon. Ebune expressed confidence that Dr. Folagbade would leave a lasting legacy as CMD, aligning with Governor Ododo’s broader vision of strengthening public institutions and improving the quality of life for Kogi residents.
The commendation underscores growing public confidence in the Ododo administration and highlights the importance of effective leadership and strategic appointments in navigating systemic challenges within Nigeria’s public service.
