This followed revelation that the facility was being overstretched due to the rising number of Lassa fever and COVID-19 patients at the hospital. Deputy Governor of the state, Comrade Philip Shaibu, disclosed this while addressing management and staff of the facility during a visit to the hospital.

Shaibu maintained that although the ISTH was a Federal Government medical facility, the Governor Obaseki-led administration was committed to assisting the hospital on account of its location in Edo State and the fact that it had become a centre of excellence in the treatment of viral diseases.

“You all know that it is the season of Lassa fever, coupled with the Coronavirus pandemic. This time every year, the governor usually sends me here to see for myself and assess the state of facilities on ground so that government will know which area to assist and support you.

“We have gone round again and I must confess that my team is satisfied that you are ever ready to combat any kind of viral diseases, no matter the name.”

“This hospital has become a reference point in Nigeria and the world today in the fight against Lassa fever, Ebola and other viral diseases. We have noticed that the wards are crowded and need to be expanded.

“On behalf of the governor, the state government is ready to give you a new building so that you can have more space to admit and treat patients.” He commended the management and staff of the hospital for their professionalism and commitment to duty, assuring that the state government would continue to give necessary support for their selfless service to humanity.

Speaking, Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Sylvanus Okogbenin, commended the Obaseki-led government for its support and assistance over the years and described the administration as a formidable partner in progress in its quest to discharge its primary responsibility.