The Yobe State Specialist Hospital has successfully carried out a highly specialised lower jaw surgery known as segmental mandibulectomy on a 40-year-old patient.

Hospital authorities said the procedure was performed for the first time in any state-owned health facility in Yobe State and the North-East region of the country.

Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Usman Geidam, said the surgery involved the removal of part of the lower jawbone, medically known as the mandible.

Geidam explained that the surgery was conducted to remove a tumour or diseased section of the jaw.

According to him, the complex operation was performed on a 40-year-old female patient diagnosed with mandibular ameloblastoma and involved advanced reconstruction using reconstruction plates and an iliac crest bone graft.

“The successful procedure represents a significant milestone in Yobe State’s journey towards improved access to specialised and tertiary healthcare services,” he said.

The surgery was led by Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Dr Muhammad Fusami, with support from Dr Peter Umejiego. Geidam said the successful operation highlights the growing pool of skilled medical professionals being supported within the state health system.

He noted that the patient is currently recuperating and responding positively to treatment.

According to the CMD, the achievement reflects sustained investment in the health sector by the Mai Mala Buni administration in strengthening healthcare delivery and infrastructure, expanding specialised medical services, equipping hospitals, and creating an enabling environment for healthcare professionals to deliver quality, life-saving interventions.

“The government’s strategic commitment to healthcare development continues to reduce dependence on referrals outside the state and improve access to advanced medical care for the people of Yobe State,” Geidam stated.

He added that the specialist hospital remains committed to professionalism and sustaining efforts to reposition the facility as a centre for specialised healthcare delivery.