IT is disturbing that many people in Nigeria now drop dead suddenly without warning. Although there are no accurate records to indicate the exact numbers, many doctors have expressed concern over the recent alarming rise in such cases.
This trend cuts across different age groups and social strata.
On Friday, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency confirmed the death of its Cross River State Commander, Morrison Ogbonna. The commander died overnight in his hotel room in the state capital.
Last August, Akin Olowokere, assistant coach of the Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, collapsed and died during training.
On May 13, 2025, Bukola Agbakaizu, a broadcast journalist with Ogun State Television, slumped while preparing for her afternoon shift and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
On September 1, Grace Adayilo, the pioneer Head of the Civil Service of the Federal Capital Territory, also reportedly collapsed and died.
In recent times, many others, including legendary singer Onyeka Onwenu, former federal lawmaker Cairo Ojougboh, and former Bayelsa State military administrator Caleb Olubolade, have suffered sudden death.
This sudden death syndrome is not unique to Nigeria. According to MedicalNewsToday, it accounts for between 150,000 and 450,000 deaths annually in the United States. Europe records approximately 250,000 such cases each year.
The causes are varied and include undiagnosed conditions, cardiovascular issues, intracerebral haemorrhage, asthma, epilepsy, stroke, hypertensive crisis, meningitis, and poor lifestyle choices.
Risk factors include physical inactivity, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, heavy alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and smoking.
Nigerians are advised to watch for warning signs such as dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and fainting.
A major challenge, however, is the prohibitively high cost of healthcare in Nigeria. Many people cannot afford lab tests, let alone the drugs or treatment required.
Some resort to self-medication, taking herbal concoctions without knowledge of proper dosages and side effects, which can damage kidneys and other vital organs.
Moreover, many primary healthcare centres lack the necessary equipment to treat even minor ailments, while tertiary hospitals are short-staffed.
Experts estimate that over 60 per cent of Nigerian doctors practice abroad. In the past five to seven years, over 16,000 Nigerian doctors are estimated to have migrated for better opportunities.
Those remaining frequently strike due to poor welfare and systemic issues, and many consider leaving at the earliest opportunity.
Most Nigerian leaders are indifferent to this crisis because they have access to quality medical care abroad and often travel overseas for treatment even for minor ailments.
Statistics show Nigeria spends between $1 billion and $1.6 billion annually on medical tourism.
For the average Nigerian, there is no safety net due to poor governance. As a result, life expectancy in Nigeria is approximately 56.05 years, well below the global average of about 73.7 years and Europe’s 81.7 years.
Nigerians should prioritise their health.
Health insurance is very important. Chronic disease management and some lifestyle changes are vital.
Also important are exercise and an active lifestyle. Exercise does not need to be very vigorous. A 30-minute walk daily may suffice. People should eat a balanced diet and manage stress.
Nigerians should also embrace the holiday culture by taking planned breaks from work rather than continuing in an unending rat race.
There should be awareness campaigns for people to undergo regular health checks with particular attention to cholesterol levels, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cardiovascular examinations.
The government should help by building an affordable health care system. It should subsidise the cost of drugs.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control should intensify efforts to rid the country of fake and adulterated drugs.
Nigerians must address the issue of poor leadership, which is at the core of the country’s problems.
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