A medical expert, Dr Hammed Ninalowo, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s limited capacity to handle stroke emergencies, revealing that only two hospitals in the country are fully equipped to provide specialised stroke care.

Ninalowo made this known in Lagos during the unveiling of Unmerited Grace, a memoir authored by stroke survivor, Temi Edun. He stressed the urgent need for improved infrastructure, awareness and emergency response systems to tackle the growing incidence of stroke nationwide.

According to him, Euracare and First Cardiology Consultants remain the only facilities currently capable of delivering comprehensive and time-sensitive stroke treatment in the country, a situation he described as grossly inadequate for Nigeria’s population.

He emphasised that stroke management is highly time-sensitive, noting that early intervention significantly improves survival and recovery outcomes.

The expert cited a recent case where a patient was moved overnight from Enugu to Lagos for urgent treatment, eventually recovering, highlighting the importance of rapid access to specialised care.

The event, held at The Wheatbaker Hotel, attracted stakeholders from the health sector and also served as an advocacy platform for improved stroke awareness and prevention.

The memoir chronicles Edun’s journey through stroke and recovery, incorporating insights from medical professionals, family members and close associates, while shedding light on the physical and emotional impact of the condition.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Daniel Ford International, Yemi Edun, described the experience as life-changing, noting that the family had largely kept the ordeal private until the book’s release.

He said the publication aims to inspire hope and raise awareness on early detection and prompt medical response.

In her remarks, Temi Edun encouraged Nigerians to prioritise their health through routine medical checks and timely intervention, attributing her recovery to resilience and faith.

As part of the awareness campaign, organisers offered free blood pressure checks to participants to promote early detection of stroke risk factors.

A panel discussion involving Ninalowo, the author and a United Kingdom-based physician, Folakemi Edun, examined gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system and the need for improved stroke management.

The session, moderated by Kunle Kasumu of Channels Television, also featured contributions from participants who shared personal experiences.

The book was formally unveiled by Gboyega Fatimilehin, with proceeds dedicated to supporting stroke patients, particularly in accessing physiotherapy and rehabilitation services.

Stakeholders at the event called for increased investment, public education and policy attention to address the shortage of stroke-ready facilities, warning that the current situation poses a significant public health challenge.