Abuja, Nigeria – May 5, 2025
The Cleft and Facial Deformity Foundation (CFDF), Nigeria, has successfully concluded a week-long medical outreach program held at Kuje General Hospital, Abuja, from April 25 to May 4, 2025. The intensive humanitarian mission provided free surgical and medical interventions to individuals suffering from a range of facial deformities, including cleft lip and palate, Noma (cancrum oris), locked jaw, and large facial tumors.
The outreach brought together a multidisciplinary team of volunteer surgeons, anesthetists, nurses, and support staff committed to restoring not only the physical health of patients but also their dignity and confidence. In partnership with local healthcare professionals, the CFDF team conducted evaluations, performed life-changing surgeries, and offered postoperative care and counseling to dozens of patients.
Impactful Cases and Life-Changing Stories
Among the highlights of the outreach were several complex and successful procedures. Children born with cleft lips and palates received reconstructive surgery, enabling them to eat, speak, and smile more comfortably. Survivors of Noma—a devastating infection that causes severe facial disfigurement—were treated with advanced surgical reconstruction. Adults with temporomandibular joint ankylosis (locked jaw) regained their ability to open their mouths, dramatically improving their quality of life. Additionally, several individuals suffering from large benign facial tumors had these growths safely removed, relieving them of years of discomfort and social stigma.
Community Engagement and Health Education
Beyond surgeries, the CFDF team engaged with the local community through awareness sessions on early detection, prevention, and treatment of facial deformities. Special focus was placed on reducing the stigma associated with such conditions and promoting timely access to medical care.
Words from the CFDF Director
Dr. Seidu Adebayo Bello, a Maxillofacial surgeon, Dental Implantologist, lead convener and Director of CFDF, Nigeria, emphasized the foundation’s long-standing commitment to serving underserved communities:
“This outreach reflects our belief that no one should be defined or limited by a treatable medical condition. Our goal is to bring healing, hope, and a future to those who might otherwise be forgotten.”
Gratitude and Future Plans
The foundation expressed its profound gratitude to the management and staff of Kuje General Hospital, local volunteers, and the broader community for their support and cooperation. CFDF also acknowledged its sponsors and donors whose generosity made the outreach possible.
As part of its ongoing mission, CFDF announced plans to return for follow-up assessments and to continue similar outreach programs across Nigeria, aiming to reach more patients in need of specialized surgical care.
