By Sola Ogundipe
A 26-year-old Momodu Mubarak Muhammed, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, has cried out for help from well-meaning Nigerians to enable him to undergo a life-saving double hip replacement surgery estimated to cost ₦12 million.
Momodu, who hails from Agbede in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, has been battling Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) since childhood. In 2022, he was diagnosed with Avascular Necrosis of the hip — a painful bone disease that has now affected both hips, leaving him unable to walk without aid.
Speaking from his sick bed in Benin City, the corper recounted to Good Health Weekly in an emotion-laden voice how his condition deteriorated despite years of medication and physiotherapy.
“I was diagnosed with Avascular Necrosis at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in 2022. According to the doctors. the disease was already at Stage 2 , and I was advised to use crutches, to avoid putting weight on my left hip, and remain on pain medication.”
Mubarak stated that his determination to serve his country motivated him to complete his university education and participate in the NYSC scheme in 2025. However, his dream was cut short earlier this year after a severe health crisis forced him to leave camp in Imo State and relocate to Abuja, where he continued his service.
“In August, I had my worst crisis ever. I was rushed to Wuse District Hospital, Abuja, and admitted for two weeks. After several tests, the doctors confirmed the disease had advanced to Stage 4, the most critical stage, and had now spread to my right hip,” he said.
The fourth child of a widow, Mrs. Sefiyat Momodu, Mubarak said his mother has been his primary caregiver since his father’s death in 2006.
Sefiyat, a devoted member of the Ihyau-Deen Muslim Women Organization of Nigeria (FOMWAN), Uwasota Zone, said her family has exhausted all resources on hospital bills and medications.
“My son has suffered so much. We have spent everything we have. I’m appealing to kind-hearted Nigerians, government agencies, and organisations to please help us save Mubarak’s life,” she said tearfully.
Doctors at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) have recommended urgent bilateral hip replacement surgery to prevent total disability. Mubarak’s total medical bill is estimated at ₦12 million, covering surgery, implants, post-operative care, and physiotherapy.
Mubarak expressed deep faith and gratitude to those willing to assist him. “I believe I can walk again if I get this surgery. I’m appealing to Nigerians to please help me live again.”
If you are moved to assist Mubarak, kindly send your donations and support to: Account Name: Sefiyat Momodu (Mrs); Account Number: 2030950746
Bank: UBA
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