The outgoing Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Darlington Obaseki, was on Friday honoured with glowing tributes at a valedictory ceremony and book launch held at the hospital premises.
Among those who celebrated his legacy was former Edo State deputy governor and current Director-General of the National Institute of Sports, Philip Shaibu, who described Obaseki as a visionary deeply committed to healthcare development and infrastructure growth.
Shaibu recalled Obaseki’s pivotal role in Edo’s successful hosting of the National Sports Festival during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“When many thought Edo could not host the Festival because of COVID, Obaseki designed a comprehensive health plan that made it possible,” he said. “His passion for healthcare infrastructure and staff development was evident throughout his tenure.”
Similarly, the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Dr. Imafidon Agbonile, hailed Obaseki’s leadership for transforming UBTH into a premier healthcare institution in West Africa.
He noted the expansion of facilities, introduction of specialist programs, integration of digital health solutions, and the commissioning of a modern Oncology Centre that revolutionised cancer care.
Dr. Philip Ugbodaga, CMD of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Benin City, also praised Obaseki’s visionary governance and dedication to human capital development, describing him as a leader who left an indelible mark on the hospital.
In his farewell remarks, Obaseki expressed gratitude to the management, staff, and governing council of UBTH for their support during his tenure. He urged them to extend the same cooperation to his successor, Dr. Idia Ize-Iyamu.
“As I take my leave, my confidence remains high that the future of UBTH is secure in capable hands. The values that guided our reforms — excellence, accountability, service, and learning — will remain relevant for years to come,” he said.
