Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi has launched a biometric staff verification drive. The exercise started Thursday across all clinical and administrative departments.
Hospital authorities say the move aims to tighten attendance monitoring and boost service quality. It will also catch workers trying to circumvent the existing biometric system.
Chief Medical Director Dr Stephen Terungwa Hwande called it a crucial administrative step. According to him, the initiative will strengthen accountability, punctuality and professional commitment among staff.
Dr Hwande noted that the biometric system has already paid dividends at the facility. Patient complaints have dropped significantly because staff now arrive on time and stay focused on their duties, he added.
Moses Ijiir, head of the Biometric Unit, explained the rationale behind the verification exercise. He said it targets truancy, absenteeism and workers dodging the monitoring system.
The unit will identify hardworking staff members committed to their roles. Those found lacking will face consequences, Ijiir told reporters.
"Lateness and absenteeism cannot be accepted in healthcare," the official stressed. He warned that delays in medical settings endanger patient lives.
Staff members found guilty during the verification will face disciplinary action. Such action will follow hospital regulations and civil service protocols, Ijiir disclosed.
Verification runs from May 15 through May 22, covering 51 departments and units. Hospital spokespersons Jam Kenneth and Ukeyima Sechivir signed the official statement.
