The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has sharply criticized former presidential spokesperson Femi Adesina, calling his recent remarks about the Nigerian healthcare sector an "insult to Nigerians."
During a television interview, Adesina mentioned that the late former President Muhammadu Buhari might have passed away sooner had he depended on Nigerian hospitals.
He further asserted that Nigerian healthcare facilities lacked the necessary equipment and expertise to treat Buhari's condition, which led to the decision to seek treatment in London.
In response to the statement, Dr. Diamond Tamunokuro, Chairman of the NMA Rivers State chapter, expressed in an interview with DAILY POST that Adesina's comments were highly disrespectful to the millions of Nigerians who rely on this health system for everything from basic care to specialized treatment.
Tamunokuro characterized the remarks as indicative of the shortcomings of Adesina's administration, especially regarding healthcare development.
He urged Nigerians to hold political leaders accountable and question whether they truly prioritize the country's best interests or are merely in office for personal gain.
It's insulting to well-intentioned Nigerians to hear such statements from politicians and political appointees.
There are Nigerians in this country who receive healthcare from the same system that Mr. Femi Adesina severely criticized and mocked.
"They receive a wide range of care, from basic medical treatments to specialized interventions. Many have lived even longer than the late president."
For him to make such a statement indicates that he acknowledges both himself and the administration he served under as complete failures, particularly regarding healthcare.
The chairman of the Rivers NMA stated that Nigerians need to actively question politicians about their true intentions—whether they genuinely care for the country's well-being or are simply enriching themselves.
He noted that doctors in Nigeria are dedicating everything to enhance the country's healthcare system.
Tamunokuro stressed that instead of repeatedly seeking medical treatment overseas, Nigerian leaders should invest public resources in improving the nation's healthcare infrastructure.
To emphasize, doctors in Rivers State and throughout Nigeria make daily sacrifices to enhance the health of Nigerian citizens.
Healthcare is expanding, and the scope of care available is growing daily. People are gaining access to quality healthcare, which enables them to lead better lives.
We need the government to establish an environment that enhances our current healthcare system.
Instead of seeking medical treatment overseas, politicians should allocate funds to improve healthcare within the country. This investment would enhance the quality of care available to Nigerians beyond current standards. That's what we hope they will commit to doing.
He added, "We anticipate that in the future, Nigerians should directly question politicians about their stance and priorities concerning healthcare and the quality of care Nigerian citizens deserve."
Former President Buhari passed away in a private clinic in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82.
Buhari passed away following a lengthy illness, although the official cause has not been disclosed.
He was laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
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