The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) on Thursday, commissioned an expanded fistula care centre in Sokoto State.
In a statement by the UNFPA, the agency explained that the “rehabilitated Goronyo General Hospital operating theatre and patient ward are part of a comprehensive approach by UNFPA to increase access to fistula care for indigent patients.
“This includes the earlier commissioning in March 2020 of the rehabilitated operating theatre and patient ward at the Maryam Abacha Women and Children Hospital in Sokoto metropolis, along with the provision of essential medical equipment and kits as well as the training of healthcare workers on the management of obstetric fistula.”
According to the UNFPA, the project further aims to restore the dignity of women and girls living with fistula and preventing the disease, while appreciating the support of the Sokoto State Government.
“UNFPA reiterates its commitment to ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled,” the statement added.
“Also, UNFPA is committed to the Federal Government of Nigeria’s vision of becoming a country free of Obstetric Fistula by 2030. Finally, UNFPA would like to once again, thank and appreciate its donor, Global Affairs Canada, for providing funding support for the project.
Sokoto State has one of the worst reproductive health indices in Nigeria with an estimated maternal mortality of more than 2000/100,000 live births, the UNFPA noted.
The UN agency added that over a two-third (71%) of pregnant women in the state never attended antenatal care; 91% of the women delivered at home and less than 10% had skilled birth attendance, exposing them to risk of maternal death and complications including fistula.