Benue: Gov. Alia applauded for prioritizing quality healthcare delivery institutional accountability

From Gabriel Agbo Makurdi 

The governor of Benue state, Hyacinth Alia at the weekend applauded for prioritizing quality healthcare delivery, institutional accountability, and data-driven decision-making in the health sector.

Alia was applauded during the handover/ presentation of a prestigious award at the APIN’s 25th Anniversary Celebration, held  in Abuja.

The Nations News reports that APIN bestowed the General Hospital Adikpo with an Award of Excellence on Public Health Initiatives, in recognition of its exceptional performance in health data management, reporting accuracy, and record keeping.

The award is widely regarded as a significant milestone for the Benue health sector and serves as further evidence of the state’s progress toward improving healthcare outcomes through quality service delivery, transparency, and strong institutional performance.

Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Paul Ejeh Ogwuche, received the award on behalf of the hospital.

In a symbolic handover ceremony held at the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Makurdi, the Commissioner formally presented the award to the Executive Secretary of the Hospital Management Board, Onoja Matthew, in the presence of the Permanent Secretary, Cephas Hough

The award followed a rigorous assessment and validation exercise conducted by APIN, during which General Hospital Adikpo achieved an outstanding 100 percent score in data quality, record keeping, and reporting accuracy, both at the initial review stage and during subsequent verification and recheck processes. 

The hospital’s records were adjudged to be complete, accurate, transparent, and of the highest quality standards.

Ogwuche commended the management and staff of General Hospital Adikpo for bringing honour to the State through their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

He noted that the recognition reflects the growing capacity and resilience of health institutions across the state and aligns with the healthcare transformation agenda of Hyacinth Alia.

The Commissioner further urged other health facilities across the state to emulate the exemplary standards demonstrated by General Hospital Adikpo, expressing confidence that with commitment and teamwork, many more facilities can attain similar levels of excellence.

“This award is a testament to hard work, professionalism, and dedication to quality service delivery. General Hospital Adikpo has made Benue State proud, and I encourage other facilities to strive for the same level of excellence,” he stated.

Receiving the award on behalf of the Hospital Management Board, Onoja Matthew expressed profound appreciation to APIN Public Health Initiatives for recognizing the efforts of General Hospital Adikpo and the Benue State health sector.

He described the award as a reflection of the commitment of healthcare workers who continue to uphold high standards despite prevailing challenges. 

He also disclosed that this was the second time the hospital had received such recognition, underscoring its consistency in maintaining excellence.

“I want acknowledge the transparency and professionalism of APIN’s assessment process. The Hospital Management Board will continue to strengthen quality assurance mechanisms across health facilities in the state”, Onoja said.

He further charged healthcare workers to remain committed to their duties, emphasizing that excellence in service delivery, accurate documentation, and accountability are essential pillars for achieving a healthier Benue State.

The event concluded with renewed commitment from the Ministry of Health and Human Services and the Hospital Management Board to sustain quality healthcare services and strengthen health information systems in line with the vision of Governor Hyacinth Alia to build a responsive, efficient, and people centered healthcare system for all residents of Benue State.