By Nsan Ndoma-Neji, Calabar
Two non-governmental organisations, the TY Danjuma Foundation, TYDF and Cleft and Facial Deformity Foundation have launched the 30th edition of their free corrective surgery at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, UCTH, Calabar.
The intervention, a collaboration between the two NGOs, which opened on May 5, 2026, marks a decade of partnership between both NGOs to bring the much-needed care to patients with cleft and facial deformities in Cross River State.
The milestone reflects years of sustained collaboration and partnership aimed at reducing the health and social burden faced by affected individuals and their families.
Since inception 10 years ago, the joint initiative has reached over 1,000 beneficiaries across several states, with more than 15 patients already receiving free surgeries in the first day of this year’s edition.
The surgeries address critical conditions that often carry stigma and limit access to education, employment and social participation.
For many beneficiaries, the intervention offers more than medical correction – it provides a chance at restored dignity and renewed opportunity.
Speaking on the issue, a member of the board of the TYDF, Prof. Alice Asim, described the work as transformative after observing procedures in the theatre and conducting ward rounds during her visit.
Noting that the programme’s consistency over 10 years demonstrates a shared commitment to equitable healthcare and tangible impact, she reaffirmed the TYDF’s commitment to continue the partnership to reach additional lives beyond this edition.
Asim extended appreciation to the CDFD’s medical team for their sacrifice and comprehensive care.
She emphasised that their expertise and dedication are central to changing outcomes for patients who might otherwise lack access to such specialized treatment.
The effort underscores how targeted health interventions can address both physical needs and social barriers.
Recognition was further given to the UCTH leadership and staff, from the Chief Medical Director, CMD to support teams working behind the scenes.
Their coordination and infrastructure have been essential in hosting the intervention smoothly and ensuring patient safety throughout the process.
The collaboration between hospital personnel and the visiting foundation team highlights the value of institutional partnerships in public health delivery.
As the intervention continues, organisers urged that compassion, excellence and shared responsibility remain the guiding principles.
The initiative goes beyond immediate medical care by fostering hope and community trust in the health system.
Together, the partners are not only treating conditions, but transforming lives across Cross River State and beyond, with plans to expand the reach of the programme in the coming years.
Earlier, the governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, lauded the initiative, noting that health challenges “have become an increasing and complex matter that requires serious attention,” stressing that “it’s no longer possible for one person to say he can do it alone.”
He suggested collaboration between the TYDF, CFDF and the foundation of the wife of the governor of Cross River State for sustainability of the programme.
