The Kogi State Ministry of Health, in partnership with Sightsavers, has carried out a targeted surgical intervention to treat hydrocele, a painful and stigmatising complication of lymphatic filariasis.

A total of 40 patients underwent free hydrocele surgeries across three zonal hospitals in Idah, Kabba, and Mohammed Buhari Mother and Child Hospital, Okene.

The initiative, officials said, was aimed at restoring dignity and hope to affected individuals and advancing the state’s drive to eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

The programme was coordinated by the State Coordinator for the NTD Control Programme, Nurse Albert Alabi, through the Kogi Hospital Management Board (KHMB), led by Dr. Ayo Olayemi.

Speaking at Idah, Dr. Olayemi, who represented the Commissioner for Health, Dr Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, said the intervention was part of broader efforts to eradicate NTDs in the state. According to him, the exercise demonstrated the commitment of the state government and Sightsavers to improving the health and well-being of residents.

Alabi explained that hydrocele affects the scrotum, causing swelling, discomfort, and often leading to social exclusion. He noted that many sufferers live in silence due to stigma and lack of access to treatment.

He said the surgeries were supported by Governor Ahmed Ododo and funded through the Reaching the Last Mile (RLM) and Eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis in Africa (ELFA) donor projects. Between 2018 and 2025, he added, 234 patients have benefitted from free hydrocele surgeries through support from donor partners via Sightsavers.

Alabi commended the leadership of the Health Commissioner, adding that NTDs, including lymphatic filariasis, are preventable with timely attention and care. “This initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between government bodies and development partners in tackling NTDs and improving community health outcomes.

The Kogi State Ministry of Health and Sightsavers have been working together to control lymphatic filariasis since 2010, through annual distribution of Mectizan and Albendazole,” he said.

Phoebe Hindan, programme officer for Sightsavers, said the organisation remains committed to supporting the management of morbidities from lymphatic filariasis while promoting equal participation of persons with disabilities in society.

“Through its Reaching the Last Mile (RLM) and Eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis in Africa (ELFA) initiatives, Sightsavers provided funding for 40 hydrocele surgeries in Kogi State in 2025,” she said.

Some beneficiaries expressed relief and gratitude. John Adebayo from Kabba said: “I was ashamed to be seen in public, but now I can move around freely without fear of being ridiculed.” Another patient, Aliyu Jimoh from Okene, added: “This surgery has restored my dignity and confidence. I’m grateful for the free treatment and the care shown by the medical team.”