MSF has conducted 4,931 free VVF surgeries in Jigawa, says official
By: Ahmed Aminu, Dutse
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) have in 17 years conducted 4,931 free Visicovaginal Fistula (VVF) surgeries in Jigawa state, the group’s Medical Activity Manager, Dr Fatima Aliyu, said on Saturday in Jahun.
She told newsmen that the surgeries were conducted at the VVF centre in Jahun from 2008 to date.
Dr Fatima spoke during a media tour to the facility as part of activities to mark the 2025 World Obstetric Fistula Day.
The tour was organised by Jigawa State Family Planning Media Forum, supported by DEVCOMS.
The Syndicate reports that VVF is a condition where an abnormal opening develops between the bladder and the vagina, causing urine leak.
It is a significant problem, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare, where prolonged or obstructed labour during childbirth is a major cause.
Dr Fatima said, “There have been 74 surgeries conducted in 2025, and a total of 4,931 surgeries performed since the project began in 2008.
“There is need for increased awareness on the importance of planned pregnancies, birth preparedness, complication readiness, access to quality antenatal services with clear delivery plan, ensuring the presence of a skilled birth attendant during labour and delivery.
“The main causes of obstetric fistula are due to lack of availability of quality antenatal care with focus on delivery plan, poor attitude towards birth preparedness, lack of complication readiness, lack of skilled birth attendance, poor monitoring of women during labour, lack of anticipation of complication and early intervention, prompt referral to facilities for caesarean section, and lack of skilled human resources.”
According to her, child spacing is an important strategy to control VVF cases and ensure safe motherhood experience.
She also it helps in reducing maternal morbidity and mortality in general not just specific to obstetric fistula.
Dr Fatima said that over the years, MSF has raised access to basic and comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care in Jigawa state.
“MSF has increased availability of materials and skilled human resources, prompt referral, and health promotion to increase awareness on birth preparedness, skilled birth attendance, and complication readiness,” she added.
