UBTH Under Scrutiny: House Committee Launches Probe into Budget, Management

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The House of Representatives Committee on Health Institutions has announced plans to investigate the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) over concerns regarding its budget expenditure and management. The committee, led by Chairman Hon. Patrick Umo, accompanied by Member Representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode federal constituency in Edo State, Hon. Billy Osawaru visited the hospital as part of an oversight function to conduct a comprehensive audit of the 2023 and 2024 budgetary expenditure.

The committee expressed worry over several issues in the hospital’s book, including the 2024 budget expenditure, budget index, and projection for 2025. They also reviewed the hospital’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Drug Revolving Fund, and nominal roll.

The committee will conduct a thorough evaluation of the hospital’s records and documentation to identify areas of weakness and strength. According to Umo, “Our report will be out in due course, and we will get back to the hospital to tell them areas where they need to improve.”

The committee chairman urged the hospital management to step up in terms of infrastructure, emergency response, and payment system. He also encouraged staff to work harder to meet the demands of patients.

The committee has directed the Clerk of the House to invite the Chief Medical Director (CMD) who had served within the period 2023 and 2024 for clarifications on the hospital’s activities during the period under review. The probe aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of the hospital’s resources.