Federal hospital’s vacancy sparks debate”

DDM News

The Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Benin City, Edo State, has announced a vacancy for the position of Director of Administration.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that this role is crucial to the smooth operation of the hospital and involves overseeing all administrative functions while ensuring compliance with policies.

The hospital is known for its long-standing contributions to mental health care in Nigeria.

It is seeking a highly qualified and experienced professional to fill this key leadership role.

The Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Benin City, has a rich history dating back to the early 1960s.

The creation of the Mid-Western Region of Nigeria in July 1963 led to an influx of civil servants into Benin City.

Among them were health professionals, including nurses and ward orderlies from the Psychiatric Hospital, Aro-Abeokuta.

Upon arrival, these professionals were assigned to the General Hospital (now Central Hospital) in Benin City.

A dedicated psychiatric unit was established under the guidance of Chief Jereton Mariere and Chief Olu Akpata.

In 1964, the Mid-Western regional government acquired the old Iyekuselu District Council Maternity/Dispensary in Uselu.

This facility was repurposed as the Nervous Disease Clinic, Uselu, marking the beginning of dedicated psychiatric services in the region.

The facility started with three old buildings, accommodating only eight in-patients.

It also provided outpatient services for both psychiatric and physical ailments.

Locally, it became known as Uselu Clinic and started operations on December 7, 1964.

The hospital operated under the supervision of Dr. N. O. Azinge, a specialist physician.

At the time, there was no psychiatrist available for the facility.

By October 1975, the hospital was taken over by the Federal Military Government.

An interim management board was established for neuro-psychiatric hospitals under the Federal Ministry of Health in 1977.

The facility was renamed Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Uselu, Benin City.

Following Decree No. 42 of 1979, the name was changed again to Psychiatric Hospital, Uselu, Benin City.

The hospital continued its operations under federal management despite the dissolution of the Board in 1994.

Today, under the leadership of Dr. S. O. Olotu, the hospital remains a top institution for psychiatric care in Nigeria.

Job Responsibilities and Requirements

The Director of Administration will work closely with the Medical Director.

This role serves as the Chief Administrative Adviser and Secretary to the Board of Management.

The successful candidate will oversee the hospital’s daily administrative functions.

Ensuring smooth coordination across various departments will be a key responsibility.

The Director will also implement policies set by the Medical Director and the Board.

Key responsibilities include overseeing the administrative department of the hospital.

The candidate will assist in policy formulation, implementation, and review.

Managing the coordination of support departments is another essential duty.

The Director will also handle official correspondence and maintain hospital records.

Additional duties may be assigned by the Board or the Medical Director.

To qualify for this role, applicants must have a first degree in Humanities, Social Sciences, or Hospital/Health Services Management.

The degree must be from a recognized university.

A minimum of 20 years of post-qualification experience in administration within a government establishment is required.

Candidates must have attained at least a directorate-level position in a government establishment.

A master’s degree or professional certification from the Institute of Administrators of Nigeria (IHSAN) is an added advantage.

Proficiency in ICT is required for the position.

Previous experience in hospital administration will also be beneficial.

Salary and Tenure

The salary and conditions of service will follow the Public Service salary structure.

The appointed individual will hold office until reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.

Alternatively, tenure ends after completing 35 years of service, whichever comes first.

The terms and conditions of the appointment will be specified in the employment letter.

Application Process

Qualified candidates interested in applying should submit their applications.

Applications should be addressed to:

The Medical Director, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Benin City, Edo State. P.M.B. 1108, Benin City.

This is a unique opportunity for experienced administrators to contribute to the hospital’s growth.

The hospital seeks a dynamic and highly skilled professional to lead its administrative operations.

The Director will play a crucial role in supporting the institution’s mission of providing excellent mental health care.

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