The Evangel Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) Centre at Bingham University Teaching Hospital, in partnership with Christofel Blending Mission (CBM), has revealed that approximately 2,000 women and girls develop obstetric fistula every year in Nigeria, raising renewed concern over maternal health challenges in the country.

Speaking during the commemoration of the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula held on Saturday in Jalingo, the Programme Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of the organisation, Gwong Ayuba, disclosed that Taraba state continues to record a high number of fistula cases, largely due to insecurity and prevailing social challenges.

Ayuba stated that the organisation has successfully conducted over 1,000 surgeries across Taraba state, bringing hope and restoration to affected women and girls.

The event, themed “Her Health is Her Right,” focused on strengthening efforts toward ending obstetric fistula in Nigeria by the year 2030.

According to Ayuba, eliminating fistula and childbirth-related injuries requires sustained collaboration among governments, healthcare institutions, development partners, and communities.

He explained that the organisation is working closely with the Taraba state government and relevant ministries to tackle the condition through awareness creation, treatment, and community engagement initiatives.

“Our target of eliminating fistula by 2030 is achievable if all stakeholders remain committed and continue to work together,” he said.

The awareness campaign featured a road walk from Palace Roundabout to Macheline Roundabout in Jalingo, attracting participants from different segments of society, including persons with disabilities.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Nuhu Tukura, represented by Christiana Habila, commended the organisation for its commitment to addressing obstetric fistula across communities in the state.

Representatives from the Hospital Services Management Board, the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the Ministry of Education, and disability advocacy groups also pledged to intensify sensitisation campaigns aimed at preventing obstetric fistula and improving maternal healthcare services throughout Taraba state.

Health experts say obstetric fistula, often caused by prolonged obstructed labour without timely medical intervention, remains one of the most devastating childbirth injuries affecting women in developing countries, particularly in rural and underserved communities.