The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports, H. E. Comrade Philip Shaibu has described the outgoing Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Professor Darlington Obaseki as a man of foresight, discipline, with an exceptional professional commitment.

The NIS Boss gave the vivid description at a valedictory session and book launch in honour of Obaseki’s tenure as Chief Medical Director, University of Benin Teaching Hospital (2017–2025).

The immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo state said under Professor Obaseki
stewardship, UBTH witnessed a significant transformation in line with its core vision of excellence in healthcare delivery, research, and training.

Shaibu said, “I had the privilege of working closely with him during the 20th National Sports Festival, Edo 2020, where he served as the Head of the Medical Committee.

“That edition of the Sports Festival has been widely adjudged as one of the most successful in Nigeria’s recent history—particularly for its seamless medical operations.

“I witnessed firsthand his meticulous attention to detail, his pursuit of excellence and his unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of all participants. Thanks to his leadership, the festival recorded no medical hitches throughout the games.

“In my capacity as Deputy Governor then overseeing immunization efforts in Edo State, I worked hand-in-hand with Professor Obaseki on the development and implementation of a robust immunization framework that not only improved vaccine outreach and efficiency in our state, but also became a model later adopted at the federal level.”

He added, “His contribution to public health goes beyond UBTH and Edo State, it has had national significance. As we celebrate this momentous occasion and the indelible mark he has left, we pray that God continues to sustain and bless him in all his future endeavours. We will never forget your selfless service, visionary leadership, and immense contributions to healthcare in Nigeria.

“Thank you, Professor Darlington E. Obaseki. Your legacy is deeply etched in the history of UBTH and in the hearts of all who had the privilege to work with you.

So, it was indeed a great privilege and honour for me to serve as Chairman of the occasion at the Valedictory Session and Book Launch marking the end of tenure of Professor Darlington E. Obaseki as Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), which officially comes to a close on the 17th of August, 2025.”