By Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
CONCERNED by the growing prevalence of kidney disease in Nigeria, members of the Nigerian Association of Nephrology have converged in Maiduguri, Borno State, to review the causes, prevention and treatment of the condition.
The discussions formed part of the Association’s 38th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference, which was held at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) and concluded on Tuesday.
Speaking at the end of the conference, the National President of the Association, Professor Jacob Olugbenga, called on the Federal and sub-national governments to declare kidney disease an issue of national importance.
According to him, kidney disease poses a serious public health challenge in the country, noting that one in every 11 Nigerians is likely to be living with the condition.
He added that Africa ranks among the continents with the highest burden of kidney disease globally, with Nigeria recording some of the highest cases on the continent.
“In Nigeria, the North-East is one of the most affected regions, with Borno and Yobe States recording the highest prevalence within the zone,” Professor Olugbenga said.
He explained that the theme of this year’s conference, ‘Kidney Health in a Resource-Limited Environment’, reflects the realities faced by healthcare professionals across Nigeria and much of Africa.
“Across our health systems, we continue to operate in environments characterised by limited infrastructure, inadequate funding, workforce shortages and unequal access to care. Despite these challenges, we have remained innovative, resilient and committed to excellence,” he said.
Professor Olugbenga noted that the conference provided a platform for robust scientific exchange, hands-on training and policy dialogue. He said participants examined innovative approaches to dialysis and transplantation, preventive nephrology, community-based screening, task shifting and sustainable funding models.
“We also explored how digital health solutions, partnerships and local innovations can improve access to renal services,” he added.
He further said the gathering offered an opportunity to reflect on the Association’s nearly four decades of contribution to kidney care in Nigeria through training, research, advocacy and public engagement.
“We brought together government representatives, traditional institutions, doctors and other stakeholders to address kidney disease. Early detection remains key. About 11 per cent of Nigerians are affected, making kidney disease a national concern,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the conference, Professor Ibrahim Imate, said the essence of the meeting was to bring nephrologists together to examine the rising cases of kidney disease and propose practical solutions.
Professor Imate identified some of the known causes of kidney disease to include food poisoning, exposure to chemicals such as insecticides and herbicides, indiscriminate drug use, diabetes, high blood pressure, dehydration, consumption of certain herbal mixtures and the use of bleaching creams, among others.
He stressed the need for increased public awareness, early diagnosis and stronger preventive measures to reduce the burden of kidney disease in the country.
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