Olushola Omogbehin
First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for global campaign against obstetric fistula, saying that the condition is entirely preventable.
Disclosing this in a message yesterday May 23, marking the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, Remi Tinubu advocated for treatable measure and other urgent action to protect girls and women
She said this year’s theme — “Her Health, Her Right: Shaping a Future without Fistula” — underscores that “access to quality maternal healthcare is a fundamental right.”
According to her, harmful social practices and gaps in health services continue to put young girls at risk.
“Early marriage and early pregnancy remain major causes of obstetric fistula, as a young girl’s body is often not fully developed for childbirth,” Mrs. Tinubu said. “Harmful traditional practices and lack of awareness further limit access to skilled care and vital health information.”
The First Lady prayed for coordinated measures to protect girls and improve maternal services, prevention through education, legal reforms and then for treatment for those affected.
“We must act urgently to end child marriage, empower girls through education, and ensure every woman has access to quality healthcare,” she said.
Sen. Remi Tinubu also framed the fight against fistula as part of a broader effort to make childbirth safer across Nigeria.
“Let us work together to build a future where every birth is safe and no woman loses her life in childbirth,” she said, concluding her message with well wishes for the observance: “Happy International Day to End Obstetric Fistula.”
