FG reaffirms commitment to ENT healthcare, tackles hearing loss crisis — Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing access to ear, nose, and throat (ENT) healthcare services across Nigeria, amid rising cases of hearing loss and a critical shortage of specialists.
Shettima made the pledge on Thursday while receiving members of the Otorhinolaryngological Society of Nigeria (ORLSON) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The delegation, led by ORLSON President, Dr. Aliyu Mohammed Kodiya, discussed the state of ENT care in the country.
“A huge chunk of our population suffers from hearing ailments, but due to social stigmatisation, many are reluctant to come forward for treatment,” Shettima stated in a release signed by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha. “The challenges you are highlighting are real, and the government is committed to going beyond cosmetic interventions.”
He noted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is focused on addressing gaps in infrastructure, medical equipment, and the retention of ENT professionals, warning that the country may have fewer than 500 ENT surgeons if urgent action is not taken.
Shettima emphasised the need for a holistic approach that includes not only equipment acquisition but also capacity building, training, and improved welfare for medical personnel. “Procuring medical devices without the manpower to operate them would amount to nothing,” he added.
In recognition of his support, the Vice President was conferred with the honorary title of “Ambassador of the Otorhinolaryngological Society of Nigeria.”
Earlier, ORLSON President, Dr. Kodiya, described hearing loss as a growing global public health crisis. He cited World Health Organisation (WHO) data projecting that by 2050, over 2.5 billion people worldwide will suffer some degree of hearing loss, with 700 million needing rehabilitation. The annual global financial cost, he noted, exceeds $1 trillion.
Kodiya also lamented the expiration of Nigeria’s National Policy and Strategic Plan for Ear and Hearing Care (2019–2023) without full implementation, calling it a missed opportunity. He pledged ORLSON’s continued collaboration with the government, private sector, and international organisations to reduce the burden of hearing loss in Nigeria.
