Governor Godwin Obaseki Launches Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Edo State, with Former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Attendance

 The Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Godwin Obaseki, has officially launched the Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin City, marking a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare infrastructure. The event, held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, was graced by several dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in honor of his late wife, Stella Obasanjo, who was a passionate advocate for healthcare and the welfare of women and children.

The hospital, a state-of-the-art medical facility, is part of the Edo State government's ongoing commitment to improving healthcare services in the region. It is designed to provide advanced medical care, with a focus on maternal and child health, as well as comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for a wide range of medical conditions.

Governor Obaseki, in his speech at the inauguration, emphasized the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure to ensure that quality medical services are accessible to all citizens, particularly in underserved communities. “Today is a proud day for all of us in Edo State,” Obaseki said. “The Stella Obasanjo Hospital is not just a hospital; it is a legacy of compassion, hope, and service to humanity. It is a reminder that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and it is our duty to provide the best services for our people.”

The Governor also expressed his gratitude to former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his unwavering support and presence at the launch. “We are honored to have you with us today, as this hospital stands as a testament to the life and values of your beloved wife, who dedicated so much of her life to the service of others, especially in healthcare,” Obaseki said.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, visibly moved, praised the initiative, calling the hospital a fitting tribute to his late wife’s legacy. “Stella would have been proud to see this hospital. Her work in promoting maternal and child health was driven by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians,” Obasanjo remarked. “I thank the Edo State government for fulfilling this promise and for ensuring that Stella’s vision of accessible healthcare lives on.”

The Stella Obasanjo Hospital, which has been in the works for several years, is equipped with modern medical technologies and staffed by highly trained medical professionals. The hospital is expected to provide not only treatment but also health education, community outreach programs, and specialized care that will positively impact the health outcomes of the people of Edo State and surrounding regions.

During the event, dignitaries were given a tour of the hospital's facilities, which include state-of-the-art surgical theaters, maternity wards, diagnostic imaging centers, and pediatric care units. The hospital is set to serve as a hub for medical research and training for future healthcare professionals in the state.

Local community leaders, health experts, and citizens of Edo State also attended the launch, with many expressing optimism about the positive impact the hospital will have on public health in the region. The hospital is expected to reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care, which has long been a challenge for residents in rural and suburban areas.

The launch of the Stella Obasanjo Hospital is being hailed as a major development in the state's healthcare sector, aligning with Governor Obaseki's administration’s focus on sustainable development, healthcare reform, and social welfare programs. The hospital’s opening is seen as a key achievement in the Governor’s broader efforts to elevate Edo State's position as a leader in healthcare innovation and service delivery.

With the establishment of this hospital, Edo State is poised to improve access to high-quality healthcare for its citizens, particularly women and children, who will benefit most from the services provided at the Stella Obasanjo Hospital.