FG committed to expanding ENT healthcare access, says VP Shettima

By Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving access to ear, nose, and throat (ENT) healthcare services across Nigeria, citing urgent needs in infrastructure, personnel, and policy implementation.

Speaking on Thursday evening while receiving a delegation from the Otorhinolaryngological Society of Nigeria (ORLSON) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is taking concrete steps to address the challenges facing 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,” the Vice President said. “The challenges you are highlighting are real, and the government is committed to going beyond cosmetic interventions.”

He expressed concern over the severe shortage of ENT specialists, noting that there may be fewer than 500 ENT surgeons nationwide. He also warned that the ongoing brain drain among young doctors could further weaken the sector.

“Our young doctors are migrating to Europe and other regions, but we are working to create an enabling environment for them here,” he said. “The problem goes beyond equipment. Procuring medical devices without the manpower to operate them would amount to nothing.”

Shettima added that the government is focused on long-term solutions, including better training, improved welfare, and retention policies for medical professionals, while also enhancing ENT-specific facilities and services nationwide.

In recognition of his support, ORLSON conferred on the Vice President the title of “Ambassador of the Otorhinolaryngological Society of Nigeria.”

President of ORLSON, Prof. Aliyu Mohammed Kodiya, who led the delegation, described hearing loss as a growing national and global health crisis. He cited World Health Organisation (WHO) projections that by 2050, over 700 million people globally will require rehabilitation for hearing loss.