Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, first female Chief Medical Director (CMD) of University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), has expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for her appointment.
Ize-Iyamu who promised to bring verve to her stewardship to the institution, also expressed thanks to the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
She also appreciated the Minister of State for Health, and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, and Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo for their leadership and confidence in her.
This is contained in a statement by the new CMD in Abuja, on Saturday.
The News Agency of Nigerians (NAN) reports that Ize-Iyamu aside being the first female CMD of UBTH she is also the first female dentist to hold such a position in Nigeria.
She is also the first orthodontist to ever hold the position of CMD in the country.
“Today marks a moment of profound gratitude for me; a reminder that every achievement is borne of grace, guidance, and the unwavering support of many hands and hearts.
“I am truly humbled by the trust bestowed upon me through my appointment as Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) by His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to all who have shaped my journey, championed my mission, and believed in the power of dedicated service.
“First, my sincere gratitude goes to our dear President for finding me worthy of this service.”she said.
“She expressed gratitude to Pate, and the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako.
She further expressed gratitude to the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa.
” I recognise that this responsibility is weighty, and I commit to giving it my very best, in the service of our nation and the good people who depend on the excellence of UBTH.
“To the management, staff, and students of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, thank you for being part of this remarkable institution that I am privileged to lead.
“You have been my colleagues, collaborators, and, in many cases, my teachers. Together, we will strengthen our standards, innovate in care delivery, and keep UBTH at the forefront of medical excellence.
“To my friends, professional colleagues, well-wishers and mentors from across the country and beyond, your calls, prayers, and words of encouragement over the years have been a wellspring of strength.
She described the moment as a testament to the power of community and shared purpose.”
The new CMD also appreciated the Edo governor for his leadership, vision, and steadfast commitment to the growth of institutions in the state.
“You have created an environment where professionals like me can thrive. I am proud to serve our dear state under your watch and will work to justify the confidence that leaders like you inspire in their citizens.
‘I appreciate my family, children, siblings and in-laws for their wonderful support – to my husband, my best friend, my confidant, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu,” she said.
NAN