THE STATE OF HEALTHCARE DELIVERY IN NIGERIA

One of President Yar’Adua’s campaign promises was “when I become President, I would ensure that no Nigerian travels outside our shores for medical attention”. Unfortunately, though he was not yet President but in the middle of his campaign and based on his health status, he was rushed outside of the country for a medical attention.

Few months into his occupying the position of President, he flouted his promise; he rushed again for medical attention. He should be forgiven because he was just coming to power. About two years after, he went to Germany for the controversial medical check-up where he stayed away for weeks. Two media houses (Channels TV and the Leadership newspaper) were troubled for daring reports. Finally, he made a move in November last year to Saudi Arabia and the deceit still continued till date.

Recently, for an ordinary fracture on his hand from an accident, the Cross River Governor Imoke was flown abroad for a POP and treatment; whereas we have many orthopaedic medical centres in Nigeria. His officials berated those media that reported the truth, countering that the governor went for a business trip. But Imoke himself returned few weeks back and did not only confirm the media reports but also used his mouth to say why he had to travel; of course no hiding place for this reason because he had an exhibit on his right hand – an orthopaedic POP.

Many rich and highly placed Nigerians including governors, legislators and even those in our medical field are more into travelling abroad for medical treatment. This exhibits some complex, coupled with belief that Nigerian medical system has not improved. At the same time Nigerian doctors are all over the world excelling in their special areas. It is a shame to our nation.

Stella Bolokor, 3 Randle Close, VGC-Lagos - stellabolokor@yahoo.com.