Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has directed the urgent renovation of the Doctors’ Residence at Ezoti following reports of its dilapidated condition.

The directive was issued after an on-site inspection led by the Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, who was accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu; the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomole, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Stanley Ehiarimwian; and executives of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Edo State Chapter.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Dr. Okungbowa said the swift approval underscored Senator Okpebholo’s practical approach to governance and his commitment to workers’ welfare. 

He explained that the Governor, upon receiving reports of the poor state of the residence, immediately approved intervention and directed the Public Building Agency to commence work without delay.

“What we have seen here is deplorable, but Governor Okpebholo has taken responsibility to fix it,” he said. 

“In line with his SHINE Agenda, which prioritises healthcare, the Governor has approved immediate renovation of the Doctors’ Residence. His urgency reflects his leadership style—he acts swiftly to address the needs of workers.”

Dr. Okungbowa further disclosed that the government was making plans to restructure the payment of outstanding arrears owed health workers since 2024, to be cleared in tranches. 

He assured the medical community of government’s recognition of their vital role in service delivery.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, described the condition of the Ezoti residence as unfit for habitation. 

“It is appalling that doctors have had to live in such conditions. But with this approval, renovation will begin immediately to restore the facility to a habitable standard,” he stated.

President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Edo State Chapter, Dr. Peter Evbuomwan, expressed appreciation to the Governor for the intervention. 

“Now that government has acknowledged the state of the building and promised urgent action, we are optimistic it will be renovated in no time. We thank His Excellency and his team for their commitment,” he said.

The renovation exercise is expected to commence immediately under the supervision of the Public Building Agency.