Benue: New Health Commissioner Assumes Office, Urges Staff to Embrace Teamwork, Discipline, and Professionalism

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The newly appointed Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, has charged staff of the ministry to uphold teamwork, discipline, and professionalism as vital tools for transforming the state’s health sector and ensuring quality health care delivery to the people.

Dr. Ogwuche gave the charge during his inaugural meeting with staff of the ministry in Makurdi, shortly after assuming duties as Commissioner.

He expressed gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for granting him the opportunity to serve and commended the governor’s resolve to provide the ministry with the necessary support to achieve significant progress.

Reaffirming his commitment to strengthening health services in the state, Ogwuche underscored the importance of discipline, teamwork, and accountability, stressing that the contribution of every staff member would be recognized in the drive to uplift the ministry.

According to him, his appointment was not for personal gain but a call to service, and he pledged to faithfully implement Governor Alia’s vision for quality health delivery.

“As your Commissioner, I believe in teamwork, discipline, and accountability. I will operate an open-door policy that welcomes ideas, innovations, and constructive feedback. At the same time, I will insist on zero tolerance for corruption or negligence. We are all partners in this journey, and I see every one of you as valuable stakeholders in the success story we are about to write.

“I want to assure you that your contributions matter. No role is too small in the chain of progress. Together, we shall build a culture of excellence where hard work is recognized, and where citizens can truly feel the impact of government in their daily lives,” Ogwuche stated.

The commissioner also promised to work closely with the Permanent Secretary, directors, and other key officers to review the status of ongoing projects, financial commitments, and the challenges facing the ministry.

“Our immediate priority will be to identify the ministry’s pressing goals, such as completing stalled projects, strengthening service delivery, and achieving quick wins that directly benefit citizens,” he added.

He further appealed to staff to unite, put aside differences, and remain dedicated to their shared duty of serving the people of the state with integrity, commitment, and passion.

Earlier, while handing over to the commissioner, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Bistrice Tambo, assured him of her full support to ensure his success.

Also speaking, the Director of Public Health, Mrs. Esther Menge, who represented the staff, pledged their readiness to work diligently in achieving the ministry’s goal of quality health care delivery.