Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has officially flagged off the First Bank free Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) surgery and empowerment programme for indigent women in the state.The initiative aims to address the scourge of VVF, which has significantly impacted the lives of many women in Plateau State.
The programme, held at Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, is part of First Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, designed to provide a lifeline to women suffering from VVF.The bank’s intervention is set to offer not only corrective surgeries but also rehabilitation and empowerment for the affected women.
During the ceremony on Tuesday, Governor Mutfwang, expressed appreciation to the bank for its impactful gesture. He emphasized the importance of such collaborations in addressing critical health issues in the state.
Receiving the empowerment kits, which included culinary equipment, Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s commitment to partnering with organizations to provide corrective surgeries and rehabilitation for VVF patients.
He commended First Bank for taking the initiative to bring the much-needed relief to women who are often abandoned by their families and isolated by their communities due to VVF.
Governor Mutfwang also called on community and religious leaders, as well as corporate organizations, to collaborate with the government in raising awareness about VVF. He stressed the need to educate parents on the dangers of early marriages, which are a leading cause of VVF.
He expressed optimism that this intervention would significantly improve the living conditions of indigent women battling VVF. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the health sector to meet the medical needs of the people of Plateau State.
Idris Ado Ibrahim, Executive Director of First Bank of Nigeria, explained that the bank annually executes a Corporate Social Responsibility and sustainability week, dedicated to promoting social development across the country, particularly in host communities.
He said the initiative is designed to give back to society and inspire individuals to engage in humanitarian services.
Ibrahim noted that the selection of communities and organizations benefiting from this initiative is based on data-driven surveys identifying those involved in humanitarian efforts. To date, the programme has reached over one million beneficiaries across Nigeria.
The Programme Coordinator for VVF at Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Sunday Lengmak, provided insight into the devastating impact of VVF, particularly on young mothers who experience prolonged labor during childbirth.
He announced that this year’s programme would provide free medical attention to 600 VVF patients and survivors. Out of the 600 beneficiaries, 50 will receive corrective surgeries, while 300 will be empowered through the support of First Bank of Nigeria.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
August 21, 2024
