The outgoing Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Darlington Obaseki, on Friday described industrial harmony achieved during his eight-year tenure as his greatest accomplishment.

Mr Obaseki said this in Benin City as dignitaries and colleagues gathered for his valedictory ceremony and book launch.

In his address, the outgoing chief medical director said that since his assumption of office in 2017, not a single union, professional association, or staff group embarked on a strike or a protest.

He attributed the feat to deliberate peace-building and mutual respect between management and staff.

He said, “For me, peace is the foundation of development. We went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure there was industrial harmony. In eight years, not for one hour did any group feel the need to down tools or carry placards. That is our greatest achievement.’’

Mr Obaseki acknowledged UBTH’s infrastructural strides — including a state-of-the-art cancer centre, renovated departments, a digital operations system, and fibre optic-powered electricity stability.

He, however, stressed that staff unity remained the true driver of progress.

Under his watch, he noted that the hospital became one of the most sought-after in the country, with over 143 hospitals from seven states referring patients to UBTH in July alone.

He stated, “In eight years, the hospital treated more than 2.4 million patients, averaging 1,500 out-patients daily and accommodating up to 600 in-patients at any given time.’’

In his remark, the immediate past deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, who chaired the occasion, hailed Mr Obaseki as “a man of foresight, discipline, and exceptional professional commitment.”

Mr Shaibu, who is the current Director General of the National Institute for Sports, recalled working closely with him during the Edo 2020 National Sports Festival, where Mr Obaseki headed the Medical Committee.

He said the chief medical director ensured seamless medical operations without a single hitch.

Mr Shaibu also praised Mr Obaseki’s role in shaping Edo State’s immunisation framework, which later became a national model.

“His contribution to public health goes beyond UBTH and Edo State; it has national significance. Your legacy is deeply etched in the history of UBTH and in the hearts of all who worked with you,” the former deputy governor said.

Mr Obaseki’s tenure officially ends on Saturday, with Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu set to assume the role.

The event also marked the launch of his book, “A legacy of reform: A Future Assured.”

The occasion was attended by top medical administrators from across Nigeria, including CMDs from the University of Calabar and University of Abuja teaching hospitals.

(NAN)