IBB specialist hospital marks medical milestone with groundbreaking surgeries

In a significant stride for healthcare in Niger State, the IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna has successfully conducted its first-ever neurological and knee replacement surgeries, marking a transformative moment for the facility.

The neurological procedure, led by Consultant Neurosurgeon Dr Uthman Uthman, involved the treatment of a 19-year-old boy who had sustained severe brain injuries and a skull fracture from a road accident. Meanwhile, Orthopaedic Surgeons Abdullahi Mohammad and Mustapha Ibrahim performed the hospital’s inaugural total knee replacement surgery on a 65-year-old woman suffering from advanced bilateral osteoarthritis.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago hailed the achievements as a landmark for the state’s healthcare system. He described the successful surgeries as evidence of progress under his administration and reiterated his commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery to reduce dependency on medical trips abroad.

The Governor also commended the Chief Medical Director, Dr Bala Waziri, and the entire hospital management for their dedication. He assured the institution of ongoing support to elevate its status as a centre for advanced medical care.

Speaking on the neurological procedure, Dr Uthman Uthman highlighted the critical need for such interventions within the state. “Many neurological emergencies, such as traumatic brain injuries and strokes, are often referred to Abuja, where delays in care can lead to avoidable complications or fatalities,” he said.

Dr Uthman expressed pride in contributing to his home state’s medical advancements, stating, “This initiative aims to address gaps in neurocritical care and reduce preventable deaths. It is part of our commitment to give back to the community and prove that complex surgeries can be successfully carried out here in Niger State.”

The successful surgeries signal a promising future for the hospital and underline the state’s efforts to build a robust and self-sufficient healthcare system.