On On Aug. 26, Governor Monday Okpebholo approved a N2.5 billion world-class paediatric centre for the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Edo State. This project is the biggest legacy project in the 52-year history of the hospital.
The governor made the announcement in Benin during a courtesy visit by the new Chief Medical Director of UBTH, Idia Ize-Iyamu, just one week after she started her job. Ms. Ize-Iyamu had asked the government to help build a modern paediatric centre to improve healthcare for children in Edo State and the South-South region.
In a quick move, Governor Okpebholo approved the project and promised full support from his government. “We will not play politics with our children’s health. This paediatric centre will be a legacy project, not just for Edo but for Nigeria. The Edo State Government will work with UBTH to make sure this project meets international standards,” he said.
Ms. Ize-Iyamu thanked the governor, calling his decision a strong show of vision and commitment to health. “This is just the start. Our administration wants to make UBTH a true centre of excellence for healthcare, training, and research. With partners like the Edo Government, we will bring modern, affordable, and quality healthcare to our people,” she said.
Ms. Ize-Iyamu is the first female Chief Medical Director of UBTH, appointed by President Bola Tinubu for a four-year term that can be renewed.
