Hope restored in Makurdi: BSUTH fits first prosthetic arm on armed herdsmen attack survivor

By Johnson Arua

In a groundbreaking medical achievement, the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi, has successfully fitted its first body-powered transhumeral prosthesis on Mrs. Blessing Agidi, a survivor of a herdsmen attack.

The historic procedure, carried out on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, marks a major advancement in orthopedic and rehabilitative healthcare services at the state-owned tertiary institution.

Sponsored by the Wife of the Tor Tiv, Her Royal Majesty, Prof. Felicia Iorzua Ayatse, the intervention has been widely hailed as a milestone in BSUTH’s quest to expand specialized medical services within Benue State.

According to a statement by the hospital’s Head of Public Relations and Protocol, Mr. Moses Tsenzughul, the successful fitting underscores the institution’s growing capacity to provide advanced treatment options previously inaccessible within the state.

Reacting to the development, the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Terungwa Stephen Hwande, commended Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for what he described as unwavering support for the health sector.

“We are witnessing the transformation of BSUTH into a centre capable of delivering services that meet international standards,” Dr. Hwande said.

“The Governor’s support has strengthened our resolve to position this hospital as a reference point for specialized healthcare and, in the near future, a destination for medical tourism.”

The CMD reserved special appreciation for Her Royal Majesty, Prof. Ayatse, for personally sponsoring the prosthetic fitting.

“This gesture goes beyond philanthropy,” he said. “It is a clear demonstration of empathy and a commitment to uplifting the vulnerable. It reflects the true essence of leadership — service to humanity.”

Dr. Hwande further disclosed that BSUTH is partnering with the Lagos-based Ishk Tolaram Foundation (ITF) to broaden access to prosthetic services. He revealed that over 300 individuals have already been enlisted for limb replacement under the initiative.

“As part of this expansion, we are recruiting specialized prosthetics experts and working toward establishing a dedicated prosthetics department to serve Benue and neighboring states,” he added.

For Mrs. Agidi, who hails from Logo Local Government Area, the procedure represents a turning point. Fighting back emotion, she expressed gratitude to her sponsor and the hospital team.

“I cannot thank them enough for giving me another chance at independence,” she said. “I hope others in my situation, especially those who cannot afford it, will also receive this kind of support.”

The successful fitting signals a new era in rehabilitative care at BSUTH, offering renewed hope to survivors of violence and others in need of life-changing medical interventions.