UBTH posts major gains in 180 days despite strikes, N130m monthly power bill - CMD

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BENIN CITY: The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, has said that within her first 180 days in office, the hospital has raised the bar in patient care, training and institutional excellence.
She stated that each milestone recorded within the period reflects, not just institutional progress, but a steadfast commitment to the people and the many lives touched by the hospital’s services.
Speaking at a press briefing in Benin City to mark her first 180 days in office, the CMD explained that the landmark achievements were realised despite significant operational challenges, including debts owed to vendors supplying critical medical consumables, oxygen and other essential
items vital to hospital operations.
She disclosed that the hospital contends with a monthly electricity bill exceeding N130 million, in addition to a wage bill for over 2,000 outsourced personnel. According to her, the financial burden underscores operational strain, infrastructural fatigue and an urgent need for stabilisation across the institution.
Ize-Iyamu further revealed that a nationwide strike by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and the Joint Health Workers Union (JOHESU), which began in November 2025, reduced the hospital’s operational capacity for four months. 
As a result, the hospital was fully functional for only two out of the six months under review.
Despite the daunting challenges, she maintained that measurable and meaningful progress was achieved.
“The progress was steered by the determination, discipline and strategic focus of management, supported by the resilience and dedication of our staff, who refused to allow temporary constraints to define our trajectory,” she said.
Highlighting key achievements, the CMD listed strides in clinical excellence and universal health coverage, capacity building, infrastructure revitalisation, community engagement, revenue generation and partnerships. 
She also disclosed that over 400 staff were employed to strengthen the hospital’s human resource capacity.
According to her, UBTH not only secured external support, but also continued to provide life-saving interventions through free and subsidised programmes, including cancer care, emergency caesarean sections and dialysis support under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda for health.

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