By Etop Ekanem

The Progressive Healthworkers Forum, a coalition of multidisciplinary healthcare professionals, is offering free AV fistula surgeries to chronic kidney disease patients across Delta State to mark World Kidney Day 2026.

Disclosing this in an official statement recently, the forum said the initiative, which targets beneficiaries from all three senatorial districts of Delta State, is aimed at reducing the financial burden of dialysis access procedures while enhancing long-term patient outcomes.

AV fistula, regarded as the gold standard for vascular access in hemodialysis, significantly reduces complications linked to repeated catheter use, making it a critical procedure for patients dependent on dialysis.

Speaking on the initiative, Chairman of the Forum, Dr. Ogbo James, described the programme as a strategic contribution by healthcare professionals toward strengthening the health system.

“The Progressive Healthworkers Forum is a group of healthcare workers encompassing all disciplines within the health sector. We have come together to support both the Federal and Delta State Governments in the task of nation building, particularly in the area of health,” he stated.

James further noted that the forum’s efforts align with the government’s broader health reforms, adding that results are already visible, adding: “Supporting the Renewed Hope for the M.O.R.E Agenda is a no-brainer. We are already seeing policies translate into tangible results, especially within the health sector.”

In the statement, the Forum commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his administration’s commitment to repositioning healthcare through the provision of modern medical infrastructure across Delta State, while also acknowledging the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, for his leadership in implementing the Governor’s health vision.

The Chief Medical Director of Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, Prof. Emmanuel Akpo, corroborated this, pointing to visible improvements in medical capacity across the state’s health facilities.

“There has been a remarkable improvement in the availability of critical medical equipment across Delta State, including CT scan machines, dialysis units, ventilators, and MRI systems. These investments are already enhancing diagnostic and treatment capabilities within our facilities,” he noted.

According to the statement, the initiative is also expected to serve as a skill enhancement opportunity for surgeons and healthcare professionals, thereby strengthening local capacity for specialized procedures, a development that positions Delta State for greater self-sufficiency in managing complex kidney-related conditions.

The Progressive Healthworkers Forum reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with government and partners in advancing healthcare delivery, stressing that improved access to life-saving interventions like AV fistula surgery remains critical to achieving better health outcomes for the people of Delta State.