The Nigerian Society of Neurological Sciences (NSNS), has called for proactive measures to bridge gaps in epilepsy care through innovation, integration and interdisciplinary collaboration.
President of the association, Prof. Morenikeji Komolafe, said this at the inauguration of the 58th Annual Scientific Conference and General Meeting, on Wednesday in Kano.
The theme of the conference is: “Bridging Gaps in Epilepsy Care: Innovations, Integration and Interdisciplinary Collaboration.”
Komolafe described the conference as apt and timely, adding that it aligned with the society’s vision to address epilepsy, “a common but highly stigmatised neurological disorder.
“The conference provides an avenue to discuss and propose solutions to epilepsy care and other neurological conditions in Nigeria.
“Participants will also have opportunities to engage in scientific sessions and network with colleagues from Nigeria and the diaspora,” she said.
Komolafe commended the Kano state government, Bayero University Kano (BUK), Aminu Kano University Teaching Hospital (AKTH), the Movement Disorders Society and partners for their support.
She also lauded the local organising committee led by Prof. Lukman Femi-Owolabi for hosting the conference in Kano.
Femi-Owolabi, said hosting the conference in Kano marked a milestone for the society and demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity and strengthening neurological practice across the country.
He said the scientific programme was designed to address contemporary challenges and innovations in neurology as well as allied neurosciences through plenary sessions, workshops and research presentations.
The chairman urged participants to actively engage in discussions and leverage networking opportunities to improve clinical practice and research in neurological sciences
Prof. Abdulrahman Sheshe, Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee/Chief Medical Director, AKTH, said epilepsy remained a major public health challenge in Nigeria.
Represented by Prof. Suwaid Mohammed-Abba, Sheshe identified delays in diagnosis, treatment gaps, stigma and limited access to specialised as challenges confronting the patients.
He said the conference would promote practical solutions, innovation and collaboration that would strengthen neurological services, training and research.
“The outcomes of this conference will translate into improved clinical practice, stronger referral networks and better quality of life for patients living with epilepsy and other neurological disorders,” he said.
Also, Prof. Musa Borodo, said that epilepsy remained widely misunderstood, particularly in developing countries.
He stressed the need to address the gaps in diagnosis, treatment and public awareness, especially among children and adolescents, adding that early intervention would improve patients’ social and educational development.
Borodo also highlighted the importance of expanding access to surgical treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy and promoting innovations that are affordable and accessible.
Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare service delivery.
Represented by Abubakar Labaran-Yusuf, Commissioner for Health, Yusuf said his administration had upgraded 18 primary healthcare facilities to secondary healthcare centres and renovated over 320 primary healthcare centres, to improve access to quality healthcare services.
He said the state had increased budgetary allocation to the health sector, and approved recruitment of over 2,000 healthcare workers, including 250 medical doctors.
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