The TY Danjuma Foundation, in partnership with the Cleft and Facial Deformity Foundation (CFDF), completed a free surgical outreach for children and adults with facial deformities at Kuje General Hospital in the Federal Capital Territory.

A Cross-Section of Beneficiaries at the Post-Operative Review

The 29th event in the series of cleft and facial deformities interventions across Nigeria continues to promote quality healthcare for children and adults living with cleft and facial malformations. An estimated 1 in 700 births worldwide has a form of facial deformity, often leading to social stigma, discrimination, and a decline in quality of life. In Nigeria, where over 70% of health expenses are paid out of pocket, access to corrective surgery remains out of reach for many affected individuals.

A total of 35 vulnerable and economically challenged individuals benefited from the week-long free cleft and craniofacial surgical intervention. The successful outreach demonstrates a strong tripartite partnership among the government, funders, and implementers, bringing together a diverse team of skilled medical personnel to positively impact the lives of the beneficiaries and ensure access to quality, affordable healthcare.

A Craniofacial Surgical Procedure

A part of the intervention involved training 7 resident professionals in advanced skills and knowledge for cleft and craniofacial management. By integrating patient-centred care with health system strengthening, the initiative provided life-changing surgeries and empowered local professionals.

A post-operative review conducted for beneficiaries, three months after the surgical interventions, revealed no complications, reaffirming the quality of care and the overall success of the surgical mission. A beneficiary shares his story on Instagram.