The Chief Medical Director of University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Prof. Thairu Yunusa, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to quality, compassionate and patient-centred healthcare following the successful treatment of a 26-year-old cervical cancer survivor, Mercy Moses.

Speaking during a brief ceremony held in honour of the survivor at the hospital in Gwagwalada, Prof. Yunusa described the feat as a major milestone for the institution and a demonstration of the capacity of Nigerian healthcare professionals to deliver world-class care despite prevailing challenges.

He attributed the successful outcome to teamwork among consultants, nurses, radiologists, social workers and other support staff, stressing that effective healthcare delivery depends on collaboration and dedication across all cadres of the hospital workforce.

According to the CMD, the patient had moved through several hospitals before arriving at UATH, where specialists across multiple departments worked together to successfully manage her condition.

“This success story reinforces the fact that Nigeria has the expertise and human capacity to reduce medical tourism if local healthcare institutions are adequately supported,” he said.

Prof. Yunusa further stated that the hospital remains committed to equitable healthcare delivery and support for vulnerable patients, disclosing that UATH recently took over the management of another indigent child with a severe medical condition.

Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr. Ishaq Lawal, who led the medical team, described the surgery as a significant breakthrough in cervical cancer management in low-resource settings. He explained that the patient underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy before a complex radical hysterectomy was successfully carried out by a multidisciplinary team after extensive evaluation.

He noted that the patient’s treatment journey, which began several years ago, was marked by financial difficulties and interruptions in care, highlighting the urgent need for stronger support systems for cancer patients in Nigeria.

To address this challenge, Dr. Lawal announced plans for a Cervical Cancer Care Access Fund aimed at supporting indigent patients through complete treatment.

Also speaking, Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr. Habiba Abdullahi, described the survivor as a symbol of resilience and hope, noting that her recovery had inspired both healthcare workers and other cancer patients.

In an emotional remark, Mercy Moses expressed gratitude to God and the medical team for giving her a second chance at life, commending the care and encouragement she received throughout her treatment.

The successful intervention is widely being regarded as another indication of the growing capacity of Nigerian tertiary hospitals to handle complex medical cases through professionalism, innovation and teamwork.