UBTH Raises ICU Admission Deposit to N1 Million

The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has announced an increase in the admission deposit for its Intensive Care Unit (ICU) from N500,000 to N1,000,000, representing a 100% hike. This adjustment was communicated in an internal memorandum dated January 30, 2026, issued by the office of the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC).

The review was deemed necessary due to prevailing funding realities, aimed at promoting efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing the procurement of medical consumables. The new deposit structure includes various wards, such as N200,000 for the labor ward complex, N150,000 for the medical ward, and N200,000 for the private ward.

The increase has drawn criticism from residents on social media, with Chief Medical Director Idia Iz Iyamu facing backlash for the perceived astronomical rise in hospital charges. Additionally, Osaretin Iyen from the hospital's public relations unit clarified that the introduction of private laboratory services is intended to complement, not replace, existing hospital diagnostic services.