FIC Report (Edo State) – In a significant move to improve Women’s health and social welfare, the Edo State Government has announced a strategic partnership with the National Obstetric Fistula Centre (NOFIC) to advance comprehensive healthcare services for women, especially those affected by Obstetric Fistula and related Childbirth complications. This collaboration aims to strengthen efforts in prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and social reintegration of vulnerable women across the state.
The Commitment was articulated by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, during a high-level engagement with the management of NOFIC, who paid a Courtesy visit to her Office in Benin City. Mrs. Abdallah emphasized that the partnership seeks to foster inter-sectoral cooperation, broaden access to free and affordable Medical Interventions, and improve overall outcomes for women suffering from Obstetric fistula and other Childbirth-Related Injuries.
She highlighted the persistent silence surrounding preventable childbirth injuries, which are often compounded by stigma, poverty, inadequate access to qualified Health Care Providers, and limited awareness. Mrs. Abdallah expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for maintaining free obstetric fistula treatment programs and commended the state’s leadership, particularly Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, for supporting the establishment of the Fistula Centre in Edo. She described this intervention as a clear demonstration of the Government’s Firm commitment to Women’s Well-being, Family stability, and Societal progress.
Addressing the critical role Women play in Societal development, the Commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to safeguarding their health, dignity, and welfare. She noted that the Administration recognizes women as the backbone of Families and Communities, and that targeted efforts are necessary to address their unique health challenges. She also highlighted the role of Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, whose passion for vulnerable groups further fuels the Government’s resolve to deliver sustainable support initiatives.
Mrs. Abdallah underscored the importance of grassroots engagement, community mobilization, and culturally sensitive advocacy to facilitate early detection and referral of women with obstetric fistula. She disclosed ongoing and planned Community Outreach Programs— including campaigns against female genital mutilation— that will incorporate education on maternal health, fistula prevention, and available treatment options. The Ministry remains committed to supporting post-treatment rehabilitation efforts, including livelihood empowerment programs designed to restore women’s dignity, confidence, and economic independence.
Earlier in the meeting, Professor Ileogben Sunday-Adeoye, Chief Medical Director of NOFIC, provided an insightful overview of Obstetric fistula, emphasizing its causes, societal impact, and the burden it imposes on affected Women and their Communities. He explained that the condition primarily results from prolonged and obstructed labor, which is often due to limited access to timely and quality maternal healthcare.
Prof. Sunday-Adeoye noted that although Obstetric Fistula is frequently associated with poverty and weak health systems, it can affect Women from all social and economic backgrounds. He reaffirmed NOFIC’s mandate of providing free, high-quality fistula repair surgeries, preventive interventions to curb new cases, and comprehensive support for survivors, including rehabilitation and reintegration programs. The Centre also conducts research aimed at improving clinical outcomes and informing health policies.
The National Obstetric Fistula Centre’s Chief Medical Director, Prof. Ileogben Sunday-Adeoye, underscored the importance of government partnership in tackling obstetric fistula—a condition that remains a significant public health challenge. He emphasized that collaborative efforts between Federal and State Governments are crucial in expanding access to Life-changing treatments and preventive measures. Prof. Sunday-Adeoye reiterated the Centre’s commitment to not only providing free surgical repairs but also implementing community-based education and advocacy initiatives that target root causes, such as early marriage, teenage pregnancies, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
He called on all Stakeholders, including Policymakers, Healthcare Providers, and Community Leaders, to intensify efforts in eradicating Obstetric Fistula and ensuring that no woman suffers in silence due to preventable Childbirth injuries. His remarks reflect a broader National Agenda to address Maternal Health disparities and promote Women’s rights to safe Motherhood.
Signed
Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO, FIC Benin.
January 29th, 2026
