FG to establish medical rehabilitation centres nationwide, focuses on spinal cord injury care

In a major step toward strengthening healthcare for persons with disabilities, the Federal Government has unveiled plans to establish Medical Rehabilitation Centres across Nigeria, with a particular focus on neuro-rehabilitation for individuals living with spinal cord injuries.

The announcement was made in Abuja on Friday by Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, during a symposium themed “Fall Prevention, Spinal Cord Protection, Empowering Lives, Enhancing Opportunities.”

The event, held to mark the 2025 World Spinal Cord Injury Day, was jointly organised by the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN), FCT Chapter, and Brain and Spine Foundation Africa.

Speaking in his keynote address, Isa emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains fully committed to advancing spinal cord health while promoting disability inclusion across the country.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is fully aware of this reality and is working assiduously to improve the quality of life for Nigerians living with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities,” he said.

He added: “Through targeted interventions, provision of assistive devices, and promotion of inclusive policies, the government is reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that no citizen is denied access to health, dignity, and opportunity.”

On partnerships, Isa revealed that his office is working closely with the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB) to ensure the success of the initiative.

“Specifically, my office has partnered with the MRTB to establish Medical Rehabilitation Centres across the country, with a strong focus on neuro-rehabilitation,” he explained.

According to him, the project is at the “situation assessment stage”—evaluating existing structures, identifying gaps, and laying the groundwork for a National Policy on Rehabilitation and a Strategic Plan.

“When fully implemented, this framework will transform the rehabilitation landscape in Nigeria and offer renewed hope to countless individuals and families,” Isa assured.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Chapter, Comrade Grace Ike, expressed concern over the rising global statistics on spinal cord injuries.

“Globally, over 15 million people live with spinal cord injuries, contributing to more than 4.5 million years lived with disability. In 2019 alone, nearly one million new cases were recorded, with road crashes and falls accounting for over 700,000 of those injuries,” Ike stated.

She pledged the Union’s support for persons with disabilities, urging policymakers to strengthen road safety laws, workplace protections, and health systems.

“To our communities: create safer environments and raise awareness. To the media: amplify stories that matter, and keep disability at the heart of the public agenda. And to every individual: take personal responsibility—at home, at work, and on the road,” she urged.

In her contribution, the Chairman of the Spinal Cord Injury Association, FCT Chapter, Chioma Maureen Egede, described this year’s theme as both urgent and timely.

“Falls remain one of the leading causes of spinal cord injuries globally, and here in Nigeria, the impact is felt deeply—across homes, workplaces, and public spaces,” Egede said.

She highlighted the progress made by SCIAN Abuja in rehabilitation, peer support, and advocacy, but stressed the need for continuous action.

“Today reminds us that our work is far from over. We must continue to push for inclusive infrastructure, accessible healthcare, and policies that prioritize prevention and dignity for all,” she said.

Egede added: “Together, we can build a future where spinal cord injuries caused by falls are not a tragic norm, but a rare exception. Let this gathering be a spark—igniting change, inspiring action, and strengthening our resolve.”

The symposium brought together medical experts, disability advocates, journalists, and policymakers, all united in their call for stronger support systems and inclusive health policies for persons living with spinal cord injuries in Nigeria.