Resident doctors at Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi, Nigeria, have appealed to the state governor for intervention in the ongoing crisis affecting the institution. Led by their president, Kawen Pededoo, the doctors outlined several key demands during a press briefing, most notably the need for improved living conditions within the facility.
In response, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Stephen Hwande, issued a three‑month notice for the striking resident doctors to vacate their residential quarters, citing a comprehensive renovation exercise. Dr. Hwande also noted that some of the doctors’ demands were only recently presented, despite the residents’ claim that poor accommodation and welfare issues have persisted for a long time.
The industrial action, now over a month old, is the latest disruption to hospital activities. It comes as BSUTH, under Governor Hyacinth Alia’s leadership, strives to become a one‑stop medical center that meets international standards. Repeated strikes have slowed progress toward this goal, and the hospital’s management and resident doctors have yet to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
Despite the standoff, the resident doctors have acknowledged the state government’s efforts and remain hopeful that the governor’s intervention will end the strike and help reposition the hospital as a world‑class medical hub. The state government’s involvement is seen as crucial for resolving the crisis, addressing the doctors’ grievances, and ensuring the continued operation of the hospital. The outcome of this intervention will be closely watched, given its significant implications for BSUTH’s ability to provide quality healthcare services to the community.
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