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By Seyi Babalola
Nigeria’s capacity to respond to stroke cases has come under scrutiny, with a stroke specialist, Hammed Ninalowo, warning that only two hospitals in the country are fully equipped as stroke-ready facilities.
He spoke at the launch of Unmerited Grace by stroke survivor Temi Edun, held at The Wheatbaker Hotel.
Ninalowo, a United States-trained interventional radiologist and founder of IRDOC Nigeria, stressed that time remains the most critical factor in stroke management.
He cited a case of a patient moved overnight from Enugu to Lagos for urgent intervention and survived, underscoring the need for rapid response systems.
He identified Euracare and First Cardiology Consultants as the only facilities currently meeting stroke-ready standards, describing the situation as a major gap in Nigeria’s health system that requires urgent attention.
The event, beyond a book launch, doubled as a platform to raise awareness about stroke, a growing but under-recognised health challenge. Guests were offered free blood pressure checks to encourage early detection and prevention.
Earlier, Chief Executive Officer of Daniel Ford International, Yemi Edun, shared personal reflections on his wife’s recovery journey, while the author spoke briefly on her experience captured in the memoir, which details the emotional and physical toll of stroke on patients and their families.
A roundtable discussion followed, featuring Ninalowo, the author and Folakemi Edun, with moderation by Kunle Kasumu.
The session examined stroke prevention, treatment and recovery, with participants and audience members sharing experiences and raising concerns.
The book was unveiled by Gboyega Fatimilehin, with proceeds earmarked for initiatives supporting stroke patients, particularly in accessing physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Stakeholders at the event called for increased public awareness, improved emergency response systems and greater investment in healthcare infrastructure to tackle the rising burden of stroke in the country.
