Resident doctors at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi, Nigeria, have called on the state governor to intervene in the ongoing crisis affecting the institution. The doctors, led by their president, Kawen Pededoo, made the appeal during a press briefing, where they outlined several key demands, including improved living conditions within the facility.
The hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Stephen Hwande, has since announced a three-month notice for the striking resident doctors to vacate their residential quarters, citing the need for a comprehensive renovation exercise. This development comes as the BSUTH, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia, strives to become a one-stop medical center that meets international standards.
The current industrial action, which has been ongoing for over a month, is the latest in a series of disruptions to hospital activities. The resident doctors have raised concerns over poor accommodation and welfare, arguing that these issues have persisted for a long time. However, Dr. Hwande maintains that some of the demands were only recently presented.
Despite the standoff, the resident doctors have acknowledged the efforts made by the state government and are hopeful that the governor’s intervention will bring an end to the strike. They believe that this would help reposition the hospital as a world-class medical hub.
The BSUTH has been working towards upgrading its facilities and services to meet international standards. However, the repeated industrial actions have slowed progress towards this goal. The hospital’s management and the resident doctors are yet to reach a mutually acceptable agreement, leading to the ongoing crisis.
The state government’s intervention is seen as crucial in resolving the crisis and addressing the grievances of the resident doctors. The governor’s office is expected to play a key role in finding a solution that meets the demands of the doctors while ensuring the continued operation of the hospital. The outcome of this intervention will be closely watched, as it will have significant implications for the hospital’s ability to provide quality healthcare services to the community.
