Breakthrough at BSUTH: Herdsmen attack survivor receives first prosthetic arm

2026-02-25 - 18:37

By Peter Duru, Makurdi The Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi has achieved a medical milestone with the successful fitting of its first body-powered transhumeral prosthesis on a herdsmen attack survivor, Mrs. Blessing Agidi. The procedure, carried out on Wednesday, was sponsored by the wife of the Tor Tiv, Her Royal Majesty, Prof. Felicia Ayatse, and marks a significant step in BSUTH’s efforts to provide advanced medical care. According to BSUTH’s Head of Public Relations, Mr. Moses Tsenzughul, the achievement reflects the hospital’s growing capacity to deliver healthcare services on par with global standards. Speaking after the procedure, Chief Medical Director Dr. Stephen Hwande praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for supporting the upgrading of hospital facilities, noting that BSUTH is evolving into a center for specialized medical care and potential medical tourism. Dr. Hwande also commended Prof. Ayatse for her sponsorship, describing it as a compassionate intervention that will have a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable citizens. BSUTH is collaborating with the Ishk Tolaram Foundation (ITF), a Lagos-based NGO, to expand access to prosthetic services. Over 300 individuals have already been enlisted for support, and the hospital is recruiting specialized personnel to establish a dedicated prosthetics department. An emotional Mrs. Agidi, from Logo Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to her sponsor, the hospital management, and the medical team. “I am deeply thankful for giving me a new beginning. I pray that more individuals in need will receive similar support to rebuild their lives,” she said. This milestone highlights BSUTH’s commitment to providing advanced healthcare solutions and improving the quality of life for citizens affected by conflict and disability.