Sakinah Medical Outreach, in collaboration with Medics Across Continents (MAC), National Hospital Abuja, and volunteer medical professionals, has launched a six-day free surgical mission aimed at providing critical medical interventions to underserved Nigerians.
Made possible through donations from Nigerians and other supporting partners, the initiative will deliver over 100 life-saving surgeries for patients suffering from conditions such as urethral stricture, prostate enlargement, kidney stones, hernia, and lipoma.
At a press conference in Abuja, Prof. Aisha Abubakar, Vice-Chairman of Sakinah Medical Outreach, described the mission as a lifeline for indigent patients.
“This initiative is not just about performing surgeries; it is about restoring dignity, relieving suffering, and giving people a second chance at life. Our highly skilled surgeons and volunteers will work tirelessly to ensure each patient receives the best possible care”She said.
Professor Matin Sheriff, Chairman of Medics Across Continents, highlighted the humanitarian drive behind the initiative.
“Our goal is inspired by the Quran’s message that saving one life is like saving all of humanity. Our work transcends religion or background; we are here to save and improve lives.”
A major highlight of this mission is the introduction of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)—a minimally invasive procedure for kidney stone removal—at National Hospital Abuja for the first time.
“PCNL has been performed in private hospitals, but many indigent patients cannot afford it. Bringing it to a public hospital ensures greater access. We are also pioneering complex laparoscopic surgeries with local medical teams to make these innovations sustainable,” Prof. Sheriff added.
Dr. Salman Yusuf, Chairman of Sakinah Medical Outreach, reiterated the outreach’s commitment to supporting only indigent Nigerians, regardless of tribe or religion.
“All patients have been screened and prepared to ensure a safe and successful mission. Our partners have provided both medical experts and specialized equipment, often unavailable locally, to enhance the quality of care.”
Beyond the surgeries, Sakinah Medical Outreach has fully paid for the post-surgical care of all patients, ensuring they receive proper follow-up treatment at their respective primary healthcare institutions where they were initially receiving care.
Professor Aisha Abubakar called for sustained public and private sector support.
“We cannot do this alone. Public and private sector support is crucial to expanding access to quality healthcare for indigent Nigerians”she stated.
While Medics Across Continents and National Hospital Abuja are key partners, the outreach is funded through donations from Nigerians and international sponsors. Volunteer doctors and medical professionals have also played a significant role in making the program a success.
Dr. Olawale Badejo, a representative of National Hospital Abuja, commended the initiative.
“This partnership is not just about treating patients—it is about building capacity for local medical personnel and ensuring that advanced procedures become more accessible. National Hospital Abuja is proud to be part of this noble cause”Badejo said.
The mission goes beyond surgery by training local medical professionals, providing patient education, and ensuring sustainable healthcare solutions. Professor Aisha Abubakar concluded with a verse from the Qur’an:
“And indeed, with hardship comes ease” (Al-Inshirah, 94:5), emphasizing the mission’s goal of bringing relief to those in pain.
As the mission continues, its impact is expected to extend beyond Abuja, offering renewed hope and strengthening efforts to improve healthcare accessibility in Nigeria.
Since its inception in 2009 under the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) and its transformation into an independent entity in 2017, Sakinah Medical Outreach has provided life-saving treatments to over 13,000 individuals, investing more than ₦150 million in medical interventions
For Further Information & Support:
📞 Dr. Salman Ayodeji | +234 806 912 8857 | [email protected]
📞 Prof. Aisha Ahmed Abubakar | +234 803 596 5464
📞 Mr. Kazeem Abiodun Akindunbi | +234 816 668 5773 | [email protected]
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