The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming healthcare delivery across the country through innovation, improved infrastructure and increased investment in healthcare facilities nationwide.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, stated this in Benin on Wednesday during the inauguration of projects at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) to mark the first anniversary of Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu as the hospital’s Chief Medical Director.
Kachollom, who was represented by the Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Benin, Dr Philip Ugbodaga, urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration as it continues efforts to strengthen the health sector.
She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The permanent secretary commended Ize-Iyamu and the management of UBTH for implementing the mandate of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and working to improve healthcare services for Nigerians.
Kachollom, who unveiled the Special Investigation Unit and other projects, praised the CMD for her achievements within her first year in office.
She described Ize-Iyamu’s leadership as visionary and commended her prudent management of the hospital, efforts to improve infrastructure and expansion of clinical services.
Kachollom also described Ize-Iyamu as a trailblazer as the first female Chief Medical Director of UBTH.
According to her, the achievements recorded within 365 days demonstrated the CMD’s commitment to transforming the hospital and improving healthcare delivery.
She pledged to submit a comprehensive report, supported with photographic evidence, to the Minister of Health for further consideration and commendation.
Among the facilities inspected were renovated security facilities, a 65-bed Accident and Emergency complex, an expanded mortuary upgraded from 72 to 460 chambers, a multi-faith centre, premium and regular renal dialysis units, a child-friendly paediatric clinic and a revitalised oxygen plant.
Other facilities included a geriatric ward, 160-slice CT scan, Special Investigation Unit, dental and oncology centres and upgraded theatre facilities.
Ize-Iyamu said the extensive infrastructural and service upgrades undertaken by her administration were aimed at improving patient care and enhancing the overall experience of patients at the hospital.
She said the projects were driven by the need to provide patients with safe, dignified and world-class healthcare services.
The CMD stressed that UBTH remained a one-stop tertiary healthcare institution providing specialist services in areas including neurosurgery, oncology, dentistry, eye care, renal services and other complex medical needs.
She reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to providing quality healthcare to all patients irrespective of age, gender, tribe, religion or social status, stressing that sickness knows no boundaries.
Ize-Iyamu also announced plans to extend the hospital’s healthcare services to underserved communities through its comprehensive health centre at Udo.
According to her, about 5,000 people will receive free medical services at the centre, including cataract surgery and other treatments.
She added that a new dental centre equipped with two dental chairs, mobile units and X-ray facilities would also be inaugurated at the facility.
The CMD expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, development partners, donors, staff and other stakeholders for their support.
She assured that UBTH would continue to improve its facilities and patient experience while remaining accessible to members of the public.
