In a bold step toward promoting transparency and excellence in healthcare recruitment, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) on Tuesday hosted over 1,500 graduates from medical and allied health disciplines for a computer-based screening exercise for internship placement.
The rigorous selection process, held within the hospital’s premises, drew candidates from across Nigeria, all vying for internship slots in fields such as Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Medical Laboratory Science, Dietetics, Physiotherapy, Radiography, and Optometry.
Addressing the candidates before the test commenced, UBTH Chief Medical Director, Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, emphasized that the recruitment would be strictly merit-based.
She assured participants that there would be no room for favoritism, influence-peddling, or financial inducement.
“This interview is designed to select only the best. No one will be shortlisted through connections or backdoor arrangements. Do not offer money to anyone for placement,” she warned.
“We have observers from the Federal Ministry of Health, the Federal Character Commission, and the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation monitoring this exercise. Do your best, and I wish you success.” she added.
The screening was part of UBTH’s broader commitment to uphold integrity and fairness in its internship programme, ensuring that only qualified and deserving candidates are selected.
Representatives from regulatory bodies present at the exercise praised the hospital’s approach. Kayode Oke, representing the Director of Human Resources Management at the Federal Ministry of Health, described the process as “hitch-free and credible,” commending UBTH for setting a high standard.
Mr. Simon Ehigie, Edo State Director of the Federal Character Commission, accompanied by Ms. Linda Obanor from the FCC headquarters, confirmed that the recruitment adhered to national guidelines and fairness principles.
“Candidates were drawn from all 36 states. While we uphold federal character, merit remains our top priority,” Ehigie stated.
Professor Stanley Okugbo, Chairman of UBTH’s Medical Advisory Committee, reiterated the hospital’s dedication to a transparent and performance-driven recruitment model.
“We are committed to excellence, and this process reflects that,” he said.
Supporting the digital infrastructure for the screening, Mr. Kehinde Samuel, Director of ICT at the University of Benin, noted that the university provided a conducive environment and robust systems to ensure the smooth conduct of the computer-based test.
Several candidates expressed satisfaction with the process, describing it as a rare opportunity to compete fairly and be evaluated solely on merit. The exercise marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s healthcare internship recruitment landscape, setting a precedent for integrity and professionalism.
