The Minister of Communications, Barrister Abdur-Raheem Adebayo Shittu and a philanthropic organization, the MTN Foundation have been commended and appreciated by the Abdullateef Family for the recommendation and subsequent treatment of their baby girl, Mutmainat Abdullateef who had a whole in her heart in an Indian hospital.
Footing the $21,566 (NI0.6 million) surgery bill to correct Mutmainat’s congenital heart condition at Apollo Hospital, India, the MTN Foundation acknowledged and appreciated the minister for referring the baby’ case to assist her parents helplessness.
In a letter informing the minister of the successful treatment of Mutmainat, the Foundation said, ”we are pleased to inform you that following successful surgery and recuperation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in Apollo Hospital, India, baby Mutmainat Abdullateef, who your office referred with congenital heart condition, has returned to Nigeria”.
The Special Assistant (Media) to the minister, Victor Oluwadamilare said despite the higher risk of performing the surgery (between 10 and 20 percent chance of surviving), the Foundation informed the minister of its ability to “save a life and contribute to the process of restoring the health of baby Mutmainat”.
Mutmainat’s father, Abubkar Abdullateef in an appreciation letter had commended the MTN Foundation for the timely intervention in the treatment of the girl.
“Sponsoring of such a very expensive surgical operation by MTN Foundation at this time of recession in the country, is an indication that the company is indeed out to assist the less privileged in the country”, he said.
Sometimes last year, the Abdullateef Family of Agoro Ogunmola Compound in Kishi, Oyo State in an hapless situation of inability to foot the medical bill of their daughter had approached Barr. Shittu for intervention.
The minister, then used his good offices to refer the family to the MTN Foundation and recommended assistance, to which the Foundation acceded and eventually foot the bill for travel, treatment and logistics for the patient and her mother in India.
