The Edo State First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Betty Obaseki on Wednesday in further exemplifying her commitment to the well-being of obstetric fistula patients, donated essential medical equipment to the National Obstetrics Fistula Centre (NOFIC) in Ugbor, Benin City, Edo State.
The items were formally received by the NOFIC’s Medical Director, Professor Ileogben Adeoye, who expressed profound gratitude to the First Lady for her generous contribution.
Professor Adeoye stated that the Edo State National Obstetrics Fistula Centre’s operational launch and approval by the Federal Government was made possible through previous donations from Mrs. Obaseki, which have contributed to the Centre’s success in performing surgical procedures, reportedly totaling 14 as of September 18.
Patients at the Centre, hailing from various states of the federation, shared their personal stories of struggle with obstetric fistula and the challenges they faced before receiving treatment. Many expressed heartfelt appreciation to the First Lady for her pivotal role in their recovery journeys.
In addition to the medical donations, the First Lady offered a monetary gift to all in-house patients. Professor Adeoye commended her benevolence and praised the NHIA for implementing the commendable Fistula-Free Programme (FFP).
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Edo State Coordinator, Amb. Theodore Ehannire, in his remarks, reiterated the NHIA’s mission to save lives and alleviate both physical and financial burdens on Nigerian citizens. He elaborated on the comprehensive coverage provided by the Fistula-Free Programme (FFP), which includes conservative treatment, surgical interventions, transportation, education, and counselling for women diagnosed with obstetric fistula.
According to Ehannire, “While the NOFIC has been accredited, NHIA is now paying for every surgery and other benefits henceforth for every patient who will access the facility.
“Before now it was the Edo State First Lady that was responsible for all payments, and today she came to do what she has been doing before, and NHIA is collaborating with NOFIC to take over the payment for VVF patients.”
The NHIA aims to achieve significant outcomes through this initiative, including reduced mortality and morbidity rates, reduced out-of-pocket expenses for patients, and enhanced clinical results for vulnerable women affected by this condition.
This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes for all Nigerians, particularly those facing the challenges of obstetric fistula.
