Two baby sisters born joined at the chest and abdomen have begun new, independent lives following a highly complex surgical procedure carried out at the National Hospital in Abuja, Nigeria. The twins, Goodness and Mercy Martins, were separated after months of careful preparation by a large multidisciplinary medical team.

Born with shared organs and an uncertain medical outlook, the girls were brought to the hospital shortly after birth in August 2018 by their parents, Michael Edeh Martins and Maria Onya Martins. Doctors determined that immediate surgery was not possible due to the babies’ fragile condition. Instead, the twins were closely monitored and cared for at the government-run hospital for more than a year while their strength gradually improved.

In November, after 15 months of specialized care, doctors gave approval for the operation. According to lead surgeon Emmanuel Ameh, the procedure lasted approximately 12 hours and involved 78 medical professionals working in two coordinated teams. The surgery required separating the twins at both the lower chest wall and abdomen, including shared involvement of the liver and diaphragm.

“This was an especially challenging case,” Dr Ameh told. “It required extensive planning and cooperation across many specialties, but the outcome has been very encouraging.”

Hospital medical director Jaff Momoh noted that while the facility has successfully separated around 11 sets of conjoined twins over the past two decades, this operation was unique. “This is the first time we have handled a case involving the lower chest wall in addition to abdominal connection,” he said.

The cost of the surgery was estimated at around $55,000, but the hospital did not charge the family. The twins’ parents rely solely on Mr Martins’ income as a painter and would not have been able to afford the procedure. Hospital staff and specialists volunteered their services to ensure the operation could go ahead.

Speaking after the surgery, Mr Martins expressed deep gratitude. “Seeing my daughters alive and well is something I cannot fully describe,” he said. “We are thankful beyond words. This team gave our children a future.”

Mrs Martins shared similar emotions, reflecting on the long journey since their birth. “When they were born, my heart was heavy with fear,” she said. “Today, I can finally smile. Words are not enough to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for our girls like their own.”

Following the successful outcome, Nigeria’s minister of health visited the hospital to commend the medical team and meet the family. The minister for women’s affairs also announced plans to support the family further by offering Mrs Martins employment to help improve their living conditions.

The twins are now well enough to return home, marking the start of a new chapter for the family. Their story has drawn attention to the impact of dedicated medical care, teamwork, and compassion.

As doctors continue to monitor the girls’ recovery, their case stands as a reminder that determination, patience, and support can overcome even the most complex challenges—proving that strength is not measured by size, but by resilience.