The Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, is set to establish an annexe in Agatu Local Government Area to bring succour to the people of the region, who have long suffered limited accessibility to quality and affordable healthcare services.
This was disclosed on Thursday by the Chief Medical Director, CMD, of the hospital, Dr Stephen Hwande, during a meeting with a delegation led by the Executive Chairman of Agatu LGA, Hon. James Ejeh.
Dr Hwande described the proposal for the annexe as “a must-granted and God-ordained decision” to unite Benue State through improved healthcare access.
He emphasised the significance of the visit, noting the symbolic unity it represents, with Hon. Ejeh hailing from Benue South and himself from Benue North-West.
“This annexe is not just about healthcare; it is about bridging divides and bringing critical services closer to underserved communities,” he said.
He praised Hon. Ejeh, as the first chairman from Benue South to champion such a unifying initiative, asserting that the chairman’s efforts have already written his name in gold.
Dr Hwande immediately announced the hospital’s Director of Finance, Dr Michael Abah, FCA, as chairman of the Annexe Establishment Committee.
Earlier, Hon. Ejeh, in his appeal for the annexe, highlighted the dire healthcare challenges faced by the people of Agatu LGA for decades.
Said he, “Our people have suffered from a lack of access to quality and affordable healthcare.
“We have lost countless lives, promising individuals, pregnant women, and children, simply because a healthcare facility was not within reach.”
He passionately argued that the establishment of the annexe would be a lifesaving intervention in the region, capable of reducing maternal and child mortality rates, improving emergency response, and providing affordable care to grassroots communities.
Hon. Ejeh also expressed his admiration for the transformation witnessed at the teaching hospital under Dr Hwande’s leadership, commending Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for appointing such a visionary leader.
“Dr. Hwande has truly elevated the hospital to world-class standards in a remarkably short time. His leadership gives us hope for what is possible.
“This annex promises job creation for local healthcare workers, improved health literacy in rural communities, and reduced financial burdens for families who currently travel long distances for treatment in urban centres.
“The annexe will also enhance the hospital’s capacity for medical research and training, fostering the development of healthcare professionals from Benue South,” he said.
Ejeh further assured that efforts would be made to liaise with ALGON in Benue to ensure the annexe is fully domesticated within the framework of grassroots healthcare delivery.
