The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State share just 15 paediatric surgeons for a combined population of about 4.3 million, including over 2.2 million children, a figure far below World Health Organisation recommendations, according to Prof. Philip Mshelbwala at the Association of Paediatric Surgeons of Nigeria's 24th annual conference.

Mshelbwala, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and a University of Abuja professor, highlighted the nationwide crisis in his welcome address at the event in Abuja, attended by surgeons, experts, and policymakers. He described the shortage as a "sobering reality" and stressed the need for urgent action, expressing hope that the conference's discussions on scientific information, innovative techniques, and clinical experiences would build expertise to improve child outcomes across Nigeria.

The gathering also included the induction of new paediatric surgeons, signaling progress amid challenges. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, represented by Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmud Bunkure, opened the conference and acknowledged sector hurdles like limited infrastructure, manpower shortages, rising costs, and skilled professional migration.

Bunkure reaffirmed the FCT Administration's commitment to partnering with APSON to expand healthcare access, enhance referral systems, and ensure timely surgical interventions for children in urban and rural areas. She praised the association's role in training and research, noting its importance for Nigeria's medical future. The conference, themed around advancing paediatric surgery, underscores ongoing efforts to address these disparities through collaboration and innovation.