Lagos — Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, in conjunction with Pro-Health International recently moved its free medical mission to Omuma Local Government Council where over 5,000 people, mostly peasant farmers of Owaha Clan in Eberi Central of the LGA; their kith and kin from Etche and the neighboring people of Abia State treated for various ailments.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman of Omuma LGA, Hon. Emmanuel Anucha lauded the Commission for embarking on infrastructural development projects in the area and for extending its free healthcare programme to Omuma.

The Chairman who was represented by Hon. John Opurum, Secretary to Omuma LGA revealed that the Council was planning to organise a free healthcare programme with a Non-Governmental Organization before NDDC came to their aid.

Opurum also disclosed that NDDC's pioneering development efforts in the area has spurred the State Government and other development agencies to remember the hitherto forgotten people of Etche land.

He, therefore, called on all stakeholders in the region to live up to their responsibility of developing the area.

"I am so delighted that this free healthcare progamme is happening in Omuma today . The entire council is commending NDDC and the Federal Government for its sustainable development efforts in the region.

"We appreciate the NDDC for the construction of the Okehi-Omuma road and bridge and for the provision of other projects in the area. Before now, we were cut off from our relatives on the other side of the Imo River with its attendant hazards.

"But today you can see jubilation on the faces of our people who have come to receive treatment for their various ailments, because ofwhat NDDC has done in the area," the elated Secretary said.