The Federal Ministry of Health has warned that Nigeria faces a triple burden of disease, including infectious illnesses, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and pandemic-related challenges.
Abraham Emmanuel, Ministry of Health representative, spoke at the inauguration of the Nuparadigm Health Foundation, which aims to provide credible health information, educate communities, and promote healthier lifestyles.
“Africa, and Nigeria in particular, no longer face only communicable diseases. We are now seeing NCDs like hypertension, strokes, and type 2 diabetes, affecting even people in their 30s,” Emmanuel said. He emphasized that lifestyle is the main risk factor and can be modified through awareness and better choices.
Emmanuel highlighted national survey results showing that many Nigerians remain unaware of health risks in their daily lives. Unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, harmful alcohol and tobacco use, and exposure to second-hand smoke drive a surge in preventable illnesses.
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He warned that these hidden risks could overwhelm families and the healthcare system if action is not taken soon.
Dr. Omolara Olagunju, founder of Nuparadigm Health Foundation, stressed that real healthcare happens outside hospitals. “Hospitals treat disease. Prevention happens daily, in our choices and habits,” she said. She noted that many Nigerians harm their health unknowingly, simply because they lack access to reliable information.
She added that unhealthy habits start young. “Children learn to like sugary drinks and poor diets. If nothing changes, we face a generation at high risk for obesity, diabetes, and heart disease,” Olagunju warned.
Dr. Iseko Iseko, consultant physician and interventional cardiologist, explained that Nigeria invests more in treating disease than preventing it. “We focus on secondary prevention, treating diseases after they occur instead of stopping them from developing,” he said.
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He warned that NCDs are draining families financially and emotionally. “Treating heart failure alone costs over ₦1.85 million per month. Stroke and kidney failure can devastate a family’s finances. Prevention is far cheaper than treatment,” he added.
The Nuparadigm Health Foundation will take awareness directly to workplaces, schools, and online platforms. “Sometimes, one piece of information can save a life,” Olagunju said. The initiative also targets lifestyle education for children and young adults to curb future health crises.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
