The management of UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital (UTH), Osogbo, has responded to recent allegations circulating in the public space concerning alleged neglect, stagnation, and unfair treatment of staff, describing the claims as misleading and not reflective of the realities within the institution.
In a statement made available to journalists, the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Afolabi Babatunde Adeola, said while constructive criticism is welcome in any progressive institution, it is important that facts are not distorted in ways that could undermine morale and public confidence in the hospital.
Dr. Afolabi noted that since he assumed office, the hospital has undergone what he described as “a period of administrative restructuring, staff inclusiveness, and steady institutional improvement.”
According to him, several longstanding issues affecting staff welfare, including cases of upgrading and regularisation dating back years, were openly acknowledged and gradually addressed through lawful administrative processes.
“From the very beginning, we did not pretend that there were no challenges. We met existing staff-related issues, particularly concerning upgrading and regularisation. Rather than ignore them, we committed to addressing them transparently within the limits of government procedures,” the CMD said.
He disclosed that a number of workers who had waited for years were eventually regularised and properly placed, adding that some beneficiaries voluntarily appreciated the management’s intervention, including contributions toward improving patient facilities within the hospital.
“We are proud that many of those affected have now been regularised. In fact, some of them expressed gratitude in very practical ways, including supporting the hospital with a pavilion to improve patient comfort. That tells you that progress has been made,” he added.
Dr. Afolabi also confirmed that approval had been secured for another category of long-serving casual staff for formal placement, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to improve staff welfare.
He, however, cautioned against expectations that promotions or conversions occur outside established civil service procedures.
“In the public service, promotion and conversion are not automatic. They depend on approvals, budgetary provisions, and available vacancies. Even when staff acquire additional qualifications, due process must still be followed,” he explained.
The CMD maintained that delays in some cases should not be misinterpreted as neglect, stressing that similar procedures exist across public institutions nationwide.
He further referenced welfare initiatives under the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, which he said had positively impacted health workers across Osun State.
According to him, these include regular salary payments, promotion approvals, hazard allowances, leave bonuses, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure.
“The Adeleke administration has shown strong commitment to workers’ welfare. In the health sector, we have seen consistent improvements in motivation, payments, and infrastructure,” Dr. Afolabi said.
While acknowledging that challenges remain, the CMD urged stakeholders and staff to adopt a constructive approach in addressing concerns rather than resorting to narratives that could create tension within the system.
“No institution is without challenges, but it is important that engagement remains factual and constructive. Our management remains open, responsive, and committed to gradual but sustainable improvement,” he stated.
He assured that outstanding cases of staff regularisation and upgrading were still under consideration and would be addressed in line with administrative approvals and budgetary provisions.
Dr. Afolabi called for continued cooperation from staff and stakeholders, noting that the hospital’s progress is a collective responsibility.
“UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital belongs to all of us. Protecting its reputation and supporting its growth must remain our shared duty,” he added.
