Nigeria moves to strengthen brain healthcare amid neurosurgeon shortage

Nigeria is set to significantly bolster its brain healthcare system through new government initiatives. The Federal Government has announced plans to establish a Brain Health Desk and develop the nation's first National Brain Health Agenda. These measures were unveiled during the commemoration of Nigeria's first official World Brain Day.

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Experts say Nigeria has 169 neurosurgeons for over 230 million people

Experts at the event raised serious concerns about the country's neurological healthcare capacity. Nigeria currently has only 169 neurosurgeons available to serve a population exceeding 230 million people. This critical shortage severely limits patients' access to care for conditions such as stroke, brain tumors, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Chika Okwuolisa, Founder and Executive Director of Brain and Spine Foundation Africa, attributed the challenge not only to the scarcity of specialists but also to the migration of healthcare professionals and inadequate medical infrastructure, including a lack of essential diagnostic equipment like CT scanners.

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The shortage of specialists and equipment has made it difficult for many patients to receive timely diagnosis and treatment.

Okwuolisa commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for prioritizing brain health, calling the maiden World Brain Day celebration a significant step. She emphasized the global theme, “Brain Health: Access for All,” highlighting the need for equitable access to neurological services. To sustain this momentum, she urged the government to increase investment in neurological healthcare, expand specialist training, procure modern diagnostic equipment, and strengthen health facilities nationwide.

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Brain Health: Access for All

In response, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, announced the approval of the Brain Health Desk under the National Mental Health Programme. This desk will coordinate the prevention and management of neurological disorders. The ministry will also develop the National Brain Health Agenda, providing a strategic framework for policy, research, investment, workforce development, and improved service delivery. The initiative is expected to enhance Nigeria's response to the increasing burden of neurological disorders and improve access to quality brain health services across the country.

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This initiative is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s response to the growing burden of neurological disorders and improve access to quality brain health services nationwide.