By Suleiman Adamu, Sokoto
Medecins Sans Frontiers(MSF) otherwise Doctors without Boarders is set to mark its 50th anniversary of providing life saving services to humànity tomorrow Saturday to feature exhibition of photographs that celebrates humanity and resilience of patients and its staff.
According to a release issued to newsmen in Sokoto by its Media contact , Abdulkareem Yakubu, said the theme of the event is ” 50 Years of Humanity.”
The release noted that Nigeria holds a special place in MSF’s history, as this is where the idea of the organization first came into being.
” MSF’s work in Nigeria ranges from treating cholera patients to assisting people displaced from their homes; from supporting the survivors of sexual violence to working to prevent, treat, and raise awareness of the hemorrhagic illness, Lassa fever.
“ We also respond to other emergencies across the country, and support primary, paediatric and maternal healthcare in the areas most in need,” says Tirima.
However, Yakubu explained that the two day event would give a glimpse into the work of MSF’s work over half a century by telling the stories of MSF staff and patients from around the world.
” MSF has for 50 years , been extending life saving health and humanitarian services in aid of those in need “, he said.
Yakubu disclosed that ” Today, MSF runs projects in ten states: Benue, Borno, Ebonyi, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Rivers, Sokoto and Zamfara.
The release which traced the journey that brought to bare , MSF , said ” In the late 1960s, a group of young French doctors returned from Nigeria, joined with some select journalists, and founded the international medical humanitarian organization in 1971.
” MSF now has close to 65,000 staff and works in more than 70 countries across the world.
“ With this exhibition, we are not only commemorating our anniversary, but also reaffirming our continued commitment to the people of Nigeria,” said Simba Tirima, MSF’s country representative in Nigeria.
According to the release ” Residents of Sokoto in northern Nigeria will be able to visit the exhibition this Saturday 12 February and Sunday 13 February at Sokoto Guest Inn, 1 Kalambaina Rd., Sokoto.
” Visitors can join guided tours conducted by MSF staff, giving them a unique insight into the work of MSF within Sokoto state and beyond.”
