Dr. Darlington Obaseki, Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), stated that he is leaving the institution in a significantly improved state compared to when he assumed office.
This declaration was made during a press briefing on Thursday, following a tour of projects completed during his eight-year tenure, which officially concludes on August 17.
Obaseki, who began his tenure in 2017, reported a 90 percent success rate in achieving the strategic goals set at the start of his administration. He emphasized the maintenance of industrial harmony as a major accomplishment, noting the absence of labor strikes during his time as CMD.
“Our greatest achievement is that we never experienced a single day of workers’ strike in eight years,” he stated, attributing this to mutual respect among all staff levels.
Key improvements highlighted by Obaseki include a focus on emergency medicine, with the remodeling and digitization of the accident and emergency section. This now features a digitalized blood bank, laboratory, and theater system. The hospital also benefits from a 24-hour power supply and consistent internet access via weather-resistant fiber optic technology. Inpatient and outpatient wards have been fully remodeled and equipped with modern medical tools.
Further advancements include three functional CT scanners, decentralized pharmacy services, and multiple payment points. Obaseki also expressed pride in the newly inaugurated oncology center, slated to begin operations in September after personnel complete intensive training on the radiation equipment.
Regarding hospital statistics, UBTH treats 1,500 outpatients daily and over 300,000 patients annually, with an average of 500 inpatients daily and 70 emergency cases referred from six states, including Delta, Ondo, Bayelsa, Kogi, Lagos, and Abuja. Obaseki noted that the high patient volume strains UBTH’s health workers, a consequence of the challenged healthcare system in Edo State.
Obaseki cited funding as a persistent challenge, revealing that Health Management Organizations currently owe UBTH over N500 million.
