BY BERNADETTE IDALU
The Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, on Tuesday paid an oversight visit to the Edo State Specialist Hospital, Benin City, where he expressed satisfaction with the state-of-the-art facilities and emphasized the need for expansion to meet rising demand.
Representing Governor, Monday Okpebholo, Idahosa toured treatment rooms, wards, clinics, the molecular laboratory, and the “VIP” and “Premium Lounge” sections designed for executives. He assessed ongoing projects and listened to management concerns.
“I was impressed by what I saw,” he said. “But the number of patients is overwhelming, hence the need for expansion.
By the grace of God, Edo Specialist Hospital will be transformed in line with our campaign promises.”
Chief Medical Director, Dr. (Mrs.) Anthonia Inibokun Njoku, lauded the administration’s commitment to security and healthcare through the SHINE Agenda. She noted the hospital’s pressing need for space: “For every one patient we admit, three are referred, not because we lack expertise, but because we lack space.”
She also expressed optimism about the forthcoming accreditation of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology by the West African College of Surgeons, which she said would position Edo as a hub for training highly skilled manpower.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Stanley Ehiarimwian, said that the visit was in readiness for the accreditation, stressing the government’s commitment to retaining skilled health workers despite challenges of migration abroad.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Iyamu Andrew Ogbeide, added that Idahosa had listened to complaints during the visit and promised government intervention.
