BSUTH begins biometric staff verification to improve service delivery

Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi has launched a biometric staff verification program to strengthen attendance monitoring and enhance service delivery.

The initiative, which began on Thursday, applies to both clinical and administrative staff. It aims to enforce compliance with official duties and uncover employees who attempt to circumvent the existing biometric attendance system.

Chief Medical Director Dr. Stephen Terungwa Hwande said the move is a key administrative step that will promote accountability, punctuality and dedication among the workforce.

Dr. Hwande added that the biometric system has already boosted operational efficiency, noting a sharp decline in complaints from patients and their relatives thanks to improved staff punctuality and commitment to duty.

Moses Ijiir, head of the Biometric Unit, explained that the verification exercise was introduced to tackle truancy, absenteeism and attempts by some workers to evade biometric monitoring.

He said the process will highlight diligent employees while exposing those who fall short of expectations.

Mr. Ijiir stressed that lateness and absenteeism cannot be tolerated in healthcare, as delays could jeopardise patients’ lives.

He also disclosed that staff found culpable during the verification will be subjected to appropriate administrative and bureaucratic procedures in accordance with hospital regulations and civil service rules.

The verification exercise, which started on May 15, is scheduled to conclude on May 22 and will cover 51 departments and units within the hospital.

The statement was signed by Jam Kenneth and Ukeyima Sechivir, Information Officers II in the Public Relations and Protocol Department of the hospital.