Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the construction of a N2.5 billion world-class paediatric centre at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), marking the largest legacy project in the 52-year history of the institution.
The announcement was made on Tuesday in Benin during a courtesy visit to the Government House by the newly appointed Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UBTH, Prof. (Mrs.) Idia Ize-Iyamu, who had just started her historic tenure.
Ize-Iyamu had presented a request for the state government’s support in establishing a modern paediatric centre to transform child healthcare delivery not only in Edo State but across the South-South region. In an unprecedented move, the governor immediately approved the project and pledged full support from his administration.
“We will not play politics with the health of our children. This paediatric centre will be a legacy project, not just for Edo but for Nigeria. The Edo State Government will work hand in hand with UBTH to ensure that this project is delivered to international standards,” Governor Okpebholo stated.
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In response, Ize-Iyamu described the approval as a groundbreaking achievement, achieved in less than ten days into her tenure, setting a new tone of innovation, collaboration, and impact-driven leadership.
She hailed the governor’s intervention as a bold demonstration of his vision and commitment to advancing the health sector. “This is only the beginning. Our administration is committed to building UBTH into a true centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, training, and research. With partners like the Edo Government, we will expand access to modern, affordable, and quality healthcare for our people,” she affirmed.
Ize-Iyamu, who is the first female CMD of UBTH, was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a renewable four-year term.
The new paediatric centre is expected to significantly improve maternal and child health outcomes, reduce child mortality rates, and position UBTH as a regional hub for paediatric healthcare in the South-South region.
