The Nigerian Society for Neurological Sciences (NSNS) has renewed its call for the inclusion of central nervous system (CNS) trauma in Nigeria’s primary healthcare strategy, as neurological diseases continue to rise across the country.
Vice-president of the society and professor of neurosurgery at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, Dr. Abdullahi Jimoh made the call during an interview with journalists on Sunday in Abuja.
Jimoh highlighted the society’s long-standing commitment to promoting brain health advocacy, public education, and prevention strategies to address a growing but often overlooked health crisis.
He noted that a wide range of neurological conditions – including traumatic brain injuries, adolescent mental health issues and neurodegenerative disorders – remain underreported and hidden due to social stigma and limited awareness, even when suffered by public figures.
“Neurological diseases are more common than people realise. Unfortunately, because of stigma, patients are often kept out of sight. It’s time to change that narrative,” he said.
Jimoh said that NSNS, which has been active for decades, reaffirmed its mission during the 2025 Annual General and Scientific Meeting (AGSM) held in Benin. One of the key resolutions was a call for the federal government to establish national neurological institutes across Nigeria.
“These institutes would serve as specialised centres for neurological research, training and clinical care delivery,” he said.
This year’s World Brain Day campaign, with themes around adolescent health, suicide prevention and traumatic brain injury, further shaped the society’s agenda to bring neurological health issues to the mainstream.
He added that the society is expanding its awareness campaigns across markets, schools and local councils, aiming to demystify neurological and spine-related conditions.
“We must begin to treat CNS trauma not just as a specialised issue, but as a frontline public health concern,” he added.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), brain health refers to the brain’s ability to function effectively in memory, learning, emotions and physical coordination throughout life. Maintaining good brain health is key to preventing stroke, dementia and depression, and is supported by nutrition, sleep, physical activity and mental stimulation.
