Abuja Noma Centre reports 457 free reconstructive surgeries for children
The centre performed 208 of the procedures in 2026 and had more than 80 children receiving care when the figures were disclosed.
By IDNN Nigeria/Metro Desk | 11 November 2026
The Noma Centre at National Hospital Abuja has performed 457 free reconstructive surgeries on children with noma since it opened, according to Dr Charles Ononiwu, national coordinator of the Noma Aid Nigeria Initiative. Punch and the News Agency of Nigeria reported the figures on 10 November after Ononiwu disclosed them during the 2026 Oral Health Week, Noma Day and Scientific Conference in Abuja.
Ononiwu said the centre performed 208 of the 457 procedures in 2026. He separately reported that the centre had treated 321 patients and that more than 80 children were receiving care at the time of the disclosure. The published figures leave open how many individual children underwent surgery and whether those still receiving care were included in the 321.
How families can ask about referrals
Families can call National Hospital Abuja general enquiries on 0809 752 0012 to ask about the Noma Centre’s intake and referral requirements before travelling. The hospital says referral requirements vary by clinic.
Ononiwu said the Noma Aid Nigeria Initiative could help arrange treatment, transport and hospital-cost support for affected children. IDNN could not verify the initiative’s dedicated toll-free number or the centre’s eligibility criteria.
What the centre provides
The centre’s team includes plastic surgeons, ear, nose and throat specialists, paediatricians and clinical psychologists. Ononiwu said the programme also provides psychological support, basic education and vocational training for children and their parents during treatment.
Noma starts in the mouth and can rapidly destroy facial tissue. The World Health Organization says early treatment can stop the disease from progressing. Survivors of advanced noma may need reconstructive surgery to address difficulties with eating or speaking.
The Federal Government launched its 2026–2030 National Oral Health Strategic Plan on 9 November. The plan aims to expand access to dental care, integrate oral health into primary healthcare and eliminate noma as a public health problem in Nigeria.
