NMA Condemns Femi Adesina’s Remarks on Nigerian Healthcare
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has fiercely criticized former presidential spokesperson Femi Adesina over his recent comments suggesting that late former President Muhammadu Buhari would have died if he had relied on Nigerian hospitals.
During a recent television interview, Adesina claimed that Nigerian healthcare facilities lacked the necessary equipment and expertise to treat Buhari’s condition, justifying the administration’s decision to fly him abroad for treatment in London.
“An Insult to Nigerians” – Rivers NMA Chair Fires Back
Reacting to the comments, Dr. Diamond Tamunokuro, Chairman of the NMA in Rivers State, described Adesina’s statements as deeply disrespectful to millions of Nigerians who depend on the country’s healthcare system daily.
“It’s an insult on well-meaning Nigerians to hear such statements from politicians and political appointees,” Tamunokuro told thewatch.ng.
“There are Nigerians who receive both basic and specialist medical care in this same health system, and many have lived even longer than the late president.”
Tamunokuro said the comments reflect the failure of the administration Adesina served, especially in healthcare development.
“Adesina Admits Buhari’s Government Failed Nigerians”
According to Dr. Tamunokuro, Adesina’s statement indirectly admits that the Buhari-led government, which he served as spokesperson, did nothing substantial to improve the nation’s healthcare system.
He urged citizens to question the intentions of those in power:
“Nigerians should rise up and begin to ask politicians whether they mean well for the country or are only in government to feed fat and extend their pockets.”
Doctors Are Sacrificing Daily – NMA Chairman
The Rivers NMA chairman highlighted the dedication of Nigerian medical professionals, noting their ongoing efforts to improve the healthcare sector despite limited resources.
“Doctors in Nigeria are sacrificing every day to improve the health of Nigerian citizens. Healthcare is expanding, the quality is improving, and people are living better lives.”
NMA Calls for Investment in Healthcare Over Medical Tourism
Tamunokuro stressed the need for Nigerian leaders to stop seeking care abroad and instead invest in building a robust local healthcare infrastructure.
“What we expect from politicians is not excuses, but investment. Invest in our hospitals. Support our doctors. Build systems that work.
If you invest in healthcare locally, you won’t need to fly abroad.”
He concluded by calling on Nigerians to demand clear healthcare policies and commitments from political leaders moving forward.
