In an urgent plea for support, a coalition of stakeholders, including medical professionals, patient advocacy groups and non-profit organisations, has called upon influential philanthropists and the government to make neurological healthcare a top priority in Nigeria.
During a national press conference held in Abuja today, January 15, 2024, the consortium highlighted the critical state of neurological emergencies and healthcare, directing their appeal to philanthropists such as Aliko Dangote, Abdulsamad Rabiu, Femi Otedola, Tony Elumelu, Chief Arthur Eze, Theophilus Danjuma, Leo Stan Ekeh, Mike Adenuga, Jim Ovia, among others.
Founder of the Brain and Spine Foundation Africa, Ms. Chika Okwuolisa stressed the potential impact of philanthropy on alleviating the financial burden for individuals and families grappling with neurological conditions, ultimately preventing unnecessary loss of lives.
Addressing the urgency for funding, Okwuolisa appealed to Senate President Godwill Akpabio to facilitate crucial support for patients and emphasised the importance of government intervention in allocating significant resources to neurological healthcare.
Key areas requiring attention were outlined, including advocacy funding, pre-hospital care centres, an endowment fund, continuous training for healthcare staff, collaboration with non-profits and creation of conducive working conditions for healthcare professionals.
Consultant neurosurgeon and NMA-FCT chapter chairman, Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi stressed the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, covering various medical disciplines, to improve overall well-being in the community. He emphasised addressing primary prevention, recognising challenges within the primary health system, and creating favourable working conditions to curb brain drain.
CSO representative, Dr. Yusuf Shehu urged a proactive focus on pre-crash measures in road safety, targeting human behaviours like over-speeding and substance use, which could significantly reduce accidents and cases requiring neurosurgeon intervention.
This collaborative effort aims to enhance overall healthcare, ensuring timely and comprehensive treatment, and improving the quality of life for those affected by neurological conditions. The stakeholders are optimistic that the urgent appeal will prompt a positive response from both philanthropists and the government, creating a transformative impact on neurological healthcare in Nigeria.
