By Zainab Faruk
Over 170 individuals suffering from hydrocele have successfully undergone free corrective surgeries in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, thanks to a joint initiative by the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, MITOSATH, and The End Fund.
The medical outreach, which also included hernia surgeries, was carried out as part of an ongoing mission to provide quality healthcare to underserved communities across the state.
Speaking during a celebration event to mark the milestone, the Wife of the Executive Governor of Bauchi State, Hajiya Dr. Aisha Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad, expressed gratitude to the implementing partners and healthcare workers for their commitment to improving the health of rural residents.
“This mission has been in the state for over 15 years. We’ve done similar surgeries in Gamawa and other LGAs. Alkaleri was scheduled last year, but due to delays, we waited until we could mobilize resources for 100 surgeries. However, the need was overwhelming, and today we have successfully completed 170 surgeries. I want to assure the people of Bauchi State that we will continue to come back to support more patients,” she said.
Dr. Francisca Olamiju, the Executive Director of MITOSATH, also commended the community for their cooperation and encouraged residents with other conditions such as swollen legs and lymphatic disorders to remain hopeful, as further interventions are being planned.
“We are not stopping here. With the support of Her Excellency and the Bauchi State Government, we are committed to ensuring that everyone who needs surgery will eventually receive it. No one will be left behind,” Dr. Olamiju assured.
Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke to Albarka Radio, described the intervention as life-changing.
Malam Aliyu Adamu, one of the recipients, said:
“This surgery has brought me relief after many years of suffering. It was done free of charge, and I am feeling better now. May Allah bless the government and the organizations involved.”
Another beneficiary, Umar Ibrahim, the Chief Imam of Duguri, expressed his heartfelt appreciation:
“We thank Allah and the sponsors. May God reward the First Lady and the health partners. This is a huge relief for our community.”
Similarly, Hajiya from Kan Kwana Kawoji, whose child benefited from the surgery, was emotional:
“My son used to cry from the pain, but since the surgery, he has greatly improved. I’m grateful to the Bauchi State Government and all those who made this possible.”
The initiative is part of a broader partnership with the Nonprofit Development (NPOND) platform to eliminate neglected tropical diseases and support health systems at the grassroots.
Officials say the program will continue in other local government areas of the state in the coming months.