Engr. Chika Okwuolisa, Founder and Executive Director of Brain and Spine Foundation Africa, told journalists in an interactive session at the organization’s Abuja office, that many lives have been cut short due to poor health care, hence the decision to take up the challenge to raise awareness, reduce stigma, advocate for resources, support research, empower communities, and foster partnership. She said that many brain and spine injury patients would enjoy lives again and contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria if they had gotten adequate attention, care and love they needed. She noted that every month of March, partners across the world commemorate Brain Awareness Week , to raise global awareness on the effect of Brain and Spinal cord challenges.

A brain tumour survivor, Mrs. Joy Kemakolam emphasized the need for increased awareness, particularly in rural areas where brain disorders are often mistaken for common illnesses like malaria. She recounted her own journey, highlighting the financial challenges she faced in accessing treatment and advocating for government intervention to support individuals with similar conditions.

Another survivor, Ms. Judith Akin- Moses,  said she  was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of six and underwent multiple surgeries both within and outside the country before surviving the ordeal. “It started with a headache at school and  was given pain relievers. Initially, my parents thought it was a minor issue, but it escalated, leading to a coma and another coma that lasted a month.  Afterward, I was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent multiple surgeries,” she said.  She was placed on treatment and medications after the surgeries to manage the condition. She stressed the need for financial support and increased awareness in communities and schools to educate teachers and parents on the dangers of attributing every headache to malaria. 

The mother of a brain injury survivor, Mrs. Patricia Okoro revealed the financial strain her family has endured since her son’s accident three years ago. Mrs.  Okoro appealed for assistance from the government and large corporations to aid individuals coping with brain tumors and injuries.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Benneth Ikem Ilechukwu, Head, Physiotherapy Department, State House Clinic, Abuja, stressed the role of rehabilitation in aiding recovery and optimising functional abilities following a brain injury. He outlined different therapies for proper recovery of victims of brain and spinal cord injuries. These therapies include physical therapy to improve mobility, occupational therapy to regain daily living skills, speech and language therapy to address communication difficulties, cognitive rehabilitation to enhance cognitive functions, and psychological therapy to manage emotional and behavioural issues.