Nigerian Hospital Repairs 2,000 Fistula Cases Since 1999

Women across northern Nigeria are getting their lives back thanks to a specialized medical center that's been quietly transforming thousands of lives for over two decades.

The Hajiya Gambo Sawaba General Hospital Fistula Centre in Zaria has successfully repaired obstetric fistula in more than 2,000 women since opening its doors in 1999. The condition, caused by prolonged obstructed labor, creates an abnormal opening that leads to continuous leakage and often devastating social consequences for those affected.

Chief Surgeon Mohammed-Ado Zakari shared the milestone during this year's International Day to End Obstetric Fistula. The center now handles about 150 repairs each year, with success rates exceeding 70%.

The facility was born from a partnership between the Kaduna State Government, Rotary International, and Dutch fistula surgeon Kees Waaldijk. Under Waaldijk's mentorship, the center has trained five doctors and numerous nurses who continue this vital work.

Globally, more than two million women live with untreated obstetric fistula, with up to 100,000 new cases occurring annually. Nigeria alone may have between 100,000 and one million women living with the condition, making centers like this one critical lifelines.

The facility primarily serves rural women who lack access to quality maternal healthcare. Early marriage, home delivery, shortage of skilled birth attendants, and poverty all contribute to cases that could have been prevented with proper medical care during childbirth.

The Ripple Effect

Beyond surgical repairs, the center is creating lasting change in how communities approach maternal health. During the commemoration event, traditional and religious leaders gathered for a special session focused on improving access to quality, subsidized medical care through state health insurance and federal programs.

Medical Director Hassan Adamu emphasized the hospital's commitment to strengthening maternal healthcare services. The surgeon praised federal government interventions like the Basic Health Care Provision Fund and Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care initiatives that are helping more women access life-saving treatment.

This year's theme, "Her Health is a Right: Invest in Ending Fistula and Childbirth Injury," reflects the center's core belief that every woman deserves safe childbirth and dignified healthcare.

With continued support from governments, development partners, and philanthropists, centers like this one are proving that obstetric fistula can be eliminated, one successful surgery at a time.