In a landmark move to enhance healthcare delivery and social welfare in Edo State, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has announced a strategic partnership with the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).
The collaboration aims to address critical issues affecting women, children, and other vulnerable populations across the state.
The initiative was unveiled during a courtesy visit by UBTH’s newly appointed Chief Medical Director, Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, to the Ministry’s headquarters in Benin City.
Welcoming the CMD, Commissioner Chief Bisi Idaomi Esq. praised Ize-Iyamu’s historic appointment as the first female leader of the hospital in its 52-year history, calling it a powerful symbol of women’s leadership and professional excellence.
Chief Idaomi outlined key areas of collaboration, including cancer screening and treatment, maternal and child health services, mental health and psychosocial support, and targeted immunization campaigns.
She emphasized the importance of coordinated responses to Gender-Based Violence (GBV), particularly for survivors requiring medical and psychological care.
“We must ensure that survivors of GBV, women living with HIV/AIDS, and those with disabilities are not left behind,” Idaomi said.
“Strengthening referral systems and joint interventions is essential to building an inclusive support network.”
To ensure effective implementation, the Commissioner proposed the formation of a joint oversight committee comprising representatives from the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Health, UBTH, and her own ministry.
She also announced plans for a large-scale medical outreach targeting 1,000 women, which will include health screenings, counseling, and referrals.
Professor Ize-Iyamu commended the Ministry’s proactive stance on social welfare and highlighted UBTH’s growing role in addressing complex social challenges.
She noted that the hospital frequently provides temporary shelter and care for indigent patients, mentally ill individuals, and homeless pregnant women—underscoring the need for long-term institutional partnerships.
“While UBTH offers short-term support, sustainable solutions require collaboration with agencies equipped to provide ongoing care,” she said.
The CMD also spotlighted UBTH’s maternal and child health initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing the importance of grassroots mobilization and public awareness to ensure these programs reach those most in need.
“Healthcare must be integrated with community engagement,” Ize-Iyamu added.
“This partnership is a step toward improving outcomes for the most vulnerable in our society.” he added.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration, mobilize resources, and deliver impactful services that promote health equity and social inclusion across Edo State.