By Austin Angwe, Makurdi
Benue State governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia has restated commitment of his administration to drive his vision which is not just that of consolidating the state as food basket but also to make Benue the health hub of the nation.
Governor Alia who made the commitment when he spoke at the second International Health Investment Summit Scientific Exhibition and N2 billion Endowment Fund for the expansion of the Therapeutic Center for Autism and Children with Special Needs held at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) Makurdi, described this year’s theme: Exploring Medical Tourism Potentials at BSUTH, Prospects and Challenges as visionary and timely.
He warned against consequences of ignoring the reality of experts who put loses of the nation to medical tourism at 3.2 trillion in 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for stakeholders to work towards transforming the health sector from challenges to a hub of opportunities in line with this year’s topic.
Alia disclosed that on assumption of office, having discovered that capital flight is driven by inadequate infrastructure, outdated facilities, under funding and recurring industrial disputes, government determined to change the narrative in order to contribute towards reviving the national challenge, increased healthcare expenditure in the 2025 budget to break away from the old norm of neglect.
He said his administration has employed about 500 professionals at the facility, approved and implement 2025 special salary structure, cleared death benefits for deceased workers, awarded contract for 220,000 liters daily capacity water, constructed a pharmacological complex among others, adding that the innovative policies were deliberate efforts to reposition the health care sector.
The governor further revealed that his administration has carried out total renovation of Radiology Department, procured scanning machine, released N18 billion for acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment to elevate the hospital into a referral center of choice, stating that these deliberate reforms have already started yielding positive result.
Governor Alia expressed optimism that with establishment of BSUTH VIP Smart Clinic and the introduction of online booking system and the hospital’s location in a serene environment, it will surely become a destination for quality healthcare, attracting patients from across the country, pointing out that the development will discourage medical tourism.
The governor who said his administration will always remain committed to transparency, uphold best practices and prudent resource management, expressed optimism that with partnership from stakeholders, government will consolidate the gains already made as well as set new standards for excellence, appreciating investors, professionals, traditional rulers and partners for gracing the occasion.