By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has condemned the abduction of Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, who was kidnapped by gunmen on Thursday, October 30, 2025. Reports from the hospital indicated that Dr. Mbanugo was attacked around Omatha Junction, Uruagu, Nnewi, while returning home after a long day in the operating theatre.
Earlier that day, the neurosurgeon had successfully performed several complex brain surgeries, including the resection of a tumour that saved a patient’s life. His abduction occurred shortly after those operations, at the point where he should have been safest, returning home from serving humanity.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, expressed deep concern and directed security agencies to intensify efforts toward the doctor’s release. He described the incident as a disturbing assault on the nation’s health system and urged the Anambra State Government to strengthen protection for healthcare professionals.
“Nigeria has less than 150 practising neurosurgeons serving over 220 million people. Every one of them is a national asset,” Dr. Salako said. “An attack on a specialist doctor is a direct assault on our collective wellbeing and the country’s health security.”
The Minister confirmed that the case had been reported to the Anambra State Police Command, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Anti-Kidnapping Squad. The management of NAUTH and the Nigerian Medical Association are also collaborating with security agencies to ensure Dr. Mbanugo’s safe return.
Dr. Salako reaffirmed the Federal Government’s solidarity with the medical community, describing doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals as national assets who must be respected and protected. He expressed optimism that ongoing efforts would lead to the doctor’s immediate and safe release.
