Terungwa Stephen Hwande, Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) Chief Medical Director, has pointed to shortage of staff and delayed hazard allowance payment as some of the challenges of the hospital. But the hospital boss has been commended by Paul Ejeh Ogwuche, Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, for his achievements so far in the hospital, barely two years into his tenure.

The Health Commissioner gave the commendation today during a familiarisation visit to the hospital alongside top officials of the ministry.

The commendation was contained in a statement made available by the Head, Public Relations & Protocol, Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Tsenzughul Moses.

Ogwuche said the visit was to assess the operations, challenges, and prospects of the state’s flagship tertiary health institution and explore ways to enhance its contribution to the governor’s health sector agenda.

He praised Hwande for providing exemplary leadership that has strengthened service delivery and improved staff morale across the hospital.

Earlier, the Chief Medical Director noted that the visit was the first official one by a commissioner and would help the ministry better understand areas requiring intervention for improved efficiency.

Hwande appreciated Governor Alia for supporting major milestones, including the cancer centre, special-needs therapeutic centre, VIP Smart Clinic, new annexes, and the rise in internally generated revenue.

He also highlighted challenges facing the hospital, such as irregular overhead releases, staffing shortages, and unpaid 2023 hazard arrears, which he said hinder smoother operations.

The Commissioner later toured the facility and expressed satisfaction, stating he was “not only impressed but pleased,” adding that Benue people would enjoy world-class healthcare under Governor Alia.