A leading stroke specialist has revealed that only two hospitals in Nigeria are fully equipped to handle stroke emergencies, highlighting a critical gap in the country’s healthcare system.

The disclosure was made by Hammed Ninalowo during the launch of Unmerited Grace, a memoir by stroke survivor Temi Edun, held at The Wheatbaker Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The event drew a distinguished audience and ignited important conversations around stroke awareness, emergency preparedness, and access to quality care in Nigeria.

In his address, Dr. Ninalowo, a US-trained, double board-certified interventional radiologist and founder of IRDOC Nigeria, stressed the importance of rapid response in stroke treatment. He recounted a case in which a patient was urgently transported overnight from Enugu to Lagos for intervention and subsequently made a strong recovery.

However, he warned that such outcomes remain rare due to limited infrastructure. According to him, only Euracare and First Cardiology Consultants currently meet the criteria for stroke-ready facilities in the country—an alarming reality that underscores the urgent need for expanded capacity and improved emergency systems.

The memoir Unmerited Grace offers a deeply personal account of survival and recovery, told through multiple perspectives, including those of doctors, physiotherapists, family members, and friends. It sheds light not only on the medical journey but also on the emotional and psychological toll of stroke on patients and their loved ones.

Speaking at the event, Yemi Edun, husband of the author, shared reflections on the family’s experience, describing it as a journey that had largely remained private until now.

A panel discussion followed, featuring Dr. Ninalowo, Temi Edun, and Folakemi Edun, who played a key role in the recovery process.

The session was moderated by Kunle Kasumu and provided a platform for bridging clinical insight with lived experience. Audience members also contributed by sharing personal stories and raising questions about prevention and care.

The book was officially launched by Gboyega Fatimilehin, marking what organisers described as the beginning of a broader advocacy effort. Proceeds from the memoir will support charitable initiatives aimed at helping stroke patients access physiotherapy and rehabilitation services.

As awareness grows, stakeholders at the event emphasised the urgent need for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, public education, and timely intervention systems to address what is fast becoming a major public health challenge in Nigeria. (Nigerian Tribune)

Update news