Interview by Peace Udugba, Publisher, The Daily Torch Media With Madam Ekaniyere Omokpia, MD/CEO of Eniyere Janet Hospital, Ewossa, Edo State. On the occasion of the hospital’s commissioning on October 10, 2025
On the special occasion of the commissioning of Eniyere Janet Hospital in Ewossa, Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State, The Daily Torch Media sat down with the Managing Director/CEO, Madam Ekaniyere Omokpia, to discuss the inspiration behind the project, her journey to bringing quality healthcare home, and her hopes for improved medical services in the community.
Q: Congratulations on building and commissioning a hospital in Ewossa. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
A: Thank you very much. My name is Ekaniyere Omokpia, one of the daughters of Chief Omokpia from Ikokogbe, Ewossa.
Q: What is the name of the hospital, and what inspired you to build a standard hospital in this particular area?
A: The hospital is named Eniyere Janet Hospital, The name was difficult to choose, but I eventually decided to name it after my mother so that her legacy would live on.
The inspiration came from seeing how far our people have to travel to access proper medical care. I wanted to create an investment that would not only serve as a legacy but also improve the health and well-being of the community.
Q: When was it commissioned?
Ans:It was commissioned on the 10th of October, 2025.
Q: How long did the project take from idea to completion?
A: It took about two years from conception to completion.
Q: What were the major challenges you faced during construction or planning?
A: The first and biggest challenge was finance. I never imagined it would be this big when I started. At some point, I almost gave up, but my family really stood by me and encouraged me to keep going.
Another major challenge was finding honest workers. It’s difficult to get people who won’t try to take advantage of you during such a large project.
Q: Was the project personally funded, or did you receive support from others?
A:The project was personally funded by myself and my family. It was a joint effort of love and sacrifice.
Q: What kind of healthcare services will the hospital provide?
A: We offer a wide range of services — from general medical treatment to surgical procedures. We also provide laboratory services and aim to keep expanding our offerings as needs arise.
Q: How many people in the community are expected to benefit from the hospital?
A: The hospital is intended to serve everyone in Ewossa and the surrounding communities.
Q: How many wards and beds does the hospital have?
A: We currently have 8 wards with a total of 26 beds. This excludes the laboratory, pharmacy, security post, and the doctor’s quarters.
Q: How many staff members, including doctors, are employed at the hospital?
A: We have 2 doctors, including the Medical Director, 6 nurses, 3 cleaners, and a number of security personnel.
Q: How do you plan to maintain the hospital financially?
A: (Smiles) God shall do wonders. I believe that with faith, dedication, and proper management, the hospital will sustain itself and grow stronger.
Q: Do you have plans to expand or replicate this in other areas?
A: Of course. I intend to bring quality healthcare to everyone within Edo State and even beyond. This is just the beginning.
Q: What uniqueness, in terms of service, is the hospital bringing to the community?
A: We are patient-focused. That means we prioritize treatment over monetary gain. We also have top-tier medical staff, experts in their various fields, committed to delivering the best care.
Q: If a patient is unable to pay for his or her treatment, what will you do?
A: We treat the patient first. Payment comes later. In such cases, we accept whatever they can afford at the time and have them sign an undertaking to pay the balance later. Life first.
Q: What was the reception like from the community?
A: Ewossa is my home. I was born and raised here. The community warmly received the project, and many expressed their gratitude. It’s seen as a great step toward socioeconomic growth in the area.
Q: Who were the dignitaries or community leaders present with you during the commissioning?
A:The Honorable Chairman of Igueben LGA was represented by the Supervisor for Health. We also had staff of the Igueben Local Government Health Authority, traditional rulers from Ewossa, and many esteemed friends and well-wishers.
Q: Will you consider establishing a mortuary in the area as well?
A: Yes, we hope to have one in due time. It’s part of the long-term plan.
Q: What message do you have for the community and potential philanthropists?
A: My message to the community is to fully utilize this hospital — it belongs to them, and we are here to serve. For others who have the means, I encourage them to invest in projects that directly impact lives. The reward is priceless.
Thanks and God bless.
