RSUTH Hosts National Cleft Conference, Begins Free Reconstructive Surgeries

The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) has commenced pre-conference activities for the Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Association of Cleft Lip and Palate (NACLP) with the launch of free cleft lip and palate reconstructive surgeries at the hospital's Modular Theatre.

The conference, themed "Strengthening Networks to Improve Cleft Awareness, Promote Early Detection, and Streamline Referral Pathways," is the first edition of the annual event to be hosted in Nigeria's South-South region.

Welcoming participants, the Chief Medical Director of RSUTH, Professor Chizindu A. Alikor, described the conference as a milestone for both the hospital and Rivers State. He also expressed appreciation to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for his support toward hosting the event.

Professor Alikor explained that the free reconstructive surgeries are being provided through a partnership between RSUTH and Smile Train, enabling patients to receive life-changing treatment at no cost. He urged parents and guardians of children born with cleft lip and palate to take advantage of the hospital's free treatment programme.

Speaking during the event, the President of the Nigerian Association of Cleft Lip and Palate, Professor Ugochukwu Nnadozie, emphasized that cleft lip and palate are congenital conditions and are not caused by witchcraft, curses, or other traditional beliefs.

He reassured the public that treatment for the condition is safe, effective, and completely free, encouraging families to seek medical care as early as possible. According to him, early intervention restores normal appearance and function, reduces social stigma, and significantly improves patients' quality of life.

Professor Nnadozie added that the conference also features specialist training sessions for healthcare professionals aimed at strengthening comprehensive cleft care services across the South-South region.

Also speaking, Smile Train's Vice President and Regional Director for Africa, Mrs. Nkeiruka Obi, reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to expanding access to free, safe, and comprehensive cleft care throughout Nigeria.

She noted that the outreach programme includes free surgeries, healthcare worker training, and nutrition education to improve public awareness, encourage early treatment, and broaden access to quality cleft care across Rivers State and the wider South-South region.

The surgical outreach is being delivered by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons, and anaesthetists, ensuring comprehensive and safe care for every patient.

The free reconstructive surgeries will continue throughout the four-day conference at the RSUTH Modular Theatre, providing life-changing treatment for children and adults living with cleft lip and palate.