The outgoing Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Professor Darlington Obaseki, described the COVID-19 pandemic as the most challenging period of his tenure. In a discourse with journalists reflecting on his accomplishments at the hospital in Benin,

Prof. Obaseki revealed that the majority of healthcare workers were apprehensive about treating patients, yet he and his team remained resolute in their commitment to meet patients’ needs.

“The COVID-19 era was particularly arduous. It was an exceptionally difficult time, the magnitude of which many cannot fathom. Despite the pandemic, other diseases continued to claim lives. Many colleagues advocated for the cessation of services, and a number of staff absented themselves out of fear,” he recounted.

“We needed to embody strength and courage, leading from the front. Daily, I was present in the COVID-19 ward. From the onset, while others concealed themselves, I consistently visited the molecular lab with my team. Leadership, I believe, is about setting a precedent, a signal for others to follow.”

“Driven by fear, some hospitals ceased operations, halting patient consultations. I dare assert that numerous individuals who perished during the pandemic succumbed not to the virus itself but to the absence of care, as fear gripped the healthcare community.”

“Those suffering from diabetes, other ailments, and trauma experienced a drastic decline in care quality. We staunchly resisted this trend. I was deemed unpopular for my unyielding stance against closing any part of the hospital. It was imperative that we continued our operations,” Obaseki stated.

Expressing satisfaction with the installation of a cancer treatment machine, Obaseki noted plans to acquire an additional one, with the current machine expected to be operational by September.

Obaseki also dismissed claims that the hospital’s charges are exorbitant, asserting that despite nationwide price hikes, the hospital has not increased its service costs.

Addressing the issue of brain drain in the medical sector, he posited that the solution lies in the improvement of the national economy. His administration has succeeded in digitizing the facility’s operations, transitioning from a paper-based system to an internet-connected environment.

Obaseki further expressed contentment in fostering harmonious working relationships with the hospital’s unions, preventing industrial actions during his eight-year tenure as CMD.

Comrade Iyobosa Omosigho, Chairman of the Medical Health Workers’ Union, lauded the outgoing CMD as worker-friendly, noting that for the past seven years, the absence of internal crises is attributable to his prioritization of staff welfare.

“For over seven years, we have enjoyed consistent promotions and conversions, which is the optimal way to recognize dedicated staff. While not perfect, I would rate his administration at 99.5%. He has consistently engaged with the union,” Omosigho remarked.