National Press Conference: Neurological Emergencies and Healthcare in Nigeria.
Brain & Spine Foundation Africa Urges Government Action on Neurological Healthcare Crisis in Nigeria
Brain and Spine Foundation Africa, a prominent Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has issued a compelling call for increased governmental focus and investment in neurological healthcare across Nigeria.
During a recent media briefing concerning the state of neurological emergencies and healthcare in the nation, Chika Okwuolisa, Founder and Chief Executive Director of Brain & Spine Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for attention to this critical area. Okwuolisa lamented the apparent disregard for neurological healthcare, labeling it as “a reflection of the broader neglect of the healthcare ecosystem as a whole.”
She urged affluent Nigerians to redirect a portion of their philanthropic endeavors towards initiatives centered on neurological healthcare, noting the dire consequences of neglect. Okwuolisa highlighted the alarming statistic that 70 percent of deaths resulting from accidents in Nigeria are attributed to brain and spinal conditions among victims.
“The exorbitant costs of treatment render them inaccessible to a significant portion of our population,” Okwuolisa emphasized, underscoring the systemic challenges within the healthcare infrastructure. She pointed out the critical shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and doctors, who choose to pursue opportunities abroad, leaving millions of Nigerians vulnerable to a depleted healthcare system.
“The stark reality underscores the imperative for comprehensive government intervention,” Okwuolisa stressed, urging the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Development to prioritize neurological emergencies. She emphasized the need for substantial investments in public education on preventive measures to mitigate the escalating crisis.
“Timely diagnosis and treatment are imperative,” Okwuolisa asserted, highlighting the life-threatening nature of neurological emergencies and their detrimental impact on individuals and families. She decried the fact that over 70% of Nigerians requiring neurological emergency attention are unable to access treatment due to various challenges.
In a direct appeal to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Okwuolisa implored urgent support for patients in need of care. She acknowledged the relentless efforts of Brain and Spine Foundation Africa in raising awareness of neurological emergencies and conditions but expressed frustration over the organization’s limited financial resources hindering impactful progress.
As the healthcare landscape grapples with significant challenges, Okwuolisa’s impassioned plea serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for concerted efforts to address neurological healthcare in Nigeria.
