The Presidency has described how Godwin Obaseki, the previous governor of Edo State, obstructed the development of a National Obstetrics Fistula Centre in Benin City, the state capital.
Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, stated that President Bola Tinubu made the announcement while signing a memorandum of understanding to build the center in the state.
Tinubu, represented by Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare Ishaq Salako, led a delegation to sign the MoU at the State Government House.
He claims that in May 2023, just before President Tinubu took office, the National Obstetrics Fistula Centre was constructed in Benin City.
“The then-Edo State government, led by Godwin Obaseki, failed to provide the requisite assistance to the centre.
“We toiled from May 2023 to November 2024 before you became Governor of Edo State, but in approximately three months, we accomplished what we couldn’t in 24 months.
“Thanks to your administration. We are grateful for your assistance in securing a temporary center in Benin City from which to operate.
“His Excellency has also designated 24 hectares of land for the permanent facility. You have proved that you are the President’s political son, prioritising healthcare at the federal level while simultaneously doing so in Edo State,” he remarked.
The President acknowledged that fistula is a major health issue and stated that Nigeria has the largest number of fistula cases in the world.
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He stated that approximately 12,000 cases of the sickness are reported annually in the country.
He went on to say that fistula is more than simply a medical illness; it is also a social and psychological issue, as some people with the ailment commit themselves.
The President stated that the Federal Government has developed a free fistula management program, which also offers social support and rehabilitation.
