By Peter Omopo
Abuja | September 11, 2025 – The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has pledged to partner with the Association of Paediatric Surgeons of Nigeria (APSON) to expand access to children’s surgical services in the FCT and surrounding states.
Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, represented by the Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmud Bunkure, made the commitment on Thursday while declaring open APSON’s 24th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Abuja.
Wike acknowledged persistent challenges in the health sector, including inadequate infrastructure, staff shortages, and rising treatment costs, stressing the need for coordinated solutions. He said the administration would work to strengthen referral systems, improve timely surgical interventions, and expand access to quality care for children in both urban and rural communities.
“We will continue to support initiatives that bridge existing gaps and improve health outcomes for children across the territory,” he assured.
Chairman of the local organising committee, Prof. Philip Mshelbwala, told delegates that the FCT and neighbouring Nasarawa State currently have only 15 paediatric surgeons serving a combined population of about 4.3 million people — with children making up nearly half. He described the shortfall as urgent and called for more investment in workforce development.
Wike further commended APSON for its role in training, research, and mentorship, and emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration between paediatric surgeons, family physicians, and community health workers to reduce late presentation of surgical cases.
Delivering the keynote, Dr. Paul Manya Dogo urged government to prioritise children’s surgery in Nigeria’s Health Sector Strategic Blueprint, noting persistent challenges with the country’s doctor-to-population ratio and non-functional equipment in some facilities. He said inclusion in the blueprint would help secure dedicated funding and ensure implementation at state and local government levels.
Also speaking, Dr. Chris Isokpunwu, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Steel Development, who chaired the opening session, encouraged APSON to intensify the training of young surgeons while sustaining advocacy for improved infrastructure and financing to make paediatric care more accessible nationwide.
