The Federal Government is in the process of developing a National Trauma Care Policy aimed at establishing a strategic framework for managing trauma cases in Nigeria. This announcement was made by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, during a media conference in Abuja to mark World Trauma Day.
World Trauma Day is observed globally on October 17, focusing on efforts to reduce the incidence of trauma within communities. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Workplace Injury: Prevention and Management.”
Speaking on behalf of Prof. Pate, Dr. Anuoma Ogbonnaya, Director of Federal Teaching Hospitals, emphasized that the new policy aligns with the government’s commitment to enhancing trauma care across the nation.
“This policy will encompass all facets of trauma care, ranging from pre-hospital and emergency services to rehabilitation and workforce reintegration. Our goal is to establish a gold standard for trauma management, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of their location, has access to high-quality emergency care when needed,” Dr. Ogbonnaya stated.
Globally, trauma is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, impacting millions of individuals each year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), injuries and violence result in over 4.4 million deaths annually. These incidents not only lead to loss of life but also contribute significantly to disability and economic burdens due to lost productivity and medical expenses.
“Common sources of injuries include traffic accidents, falls, and workplace incidents, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the heaviest toll. These regions account for approximately 90% of global injury-related deaths, revealing stark disparities in safety measures and healthcare capabilities,” Dr. Ogbonnaya noted.
Turning the focus to Nigeria, he highlighted that the local situation mirrors the global challenge but is intensified by specific factors such as inadequate road safety measures, limited emergency care services, and occupational hazards in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and agriculture.
In a bid to strengthen trauma care, the ministry is establishing a dedicated clinic to provide Emergency Medical Services, including care for workplace injuries. The clinic will be equipped to deliver immediate care, supported by ambulances specifically designed to handle trauma cases.
Dr. Ogbonnaya addressed the theme of the day, emphasizing the urgent need to protect the health and well-being of the nation’s workforce.
The Permanent Secretary, Ms. Daju Kachollom, acknowledged that workplace injuries can occur in any industry. Represented by Dr. Aderemi Azeez, Director and Head of the Speciality Hospital Division, she stressed the government’s responsibility to ensure safe and well-prepared workplaces across Nigeria to prevent and manage these incidents effectively.
“Prevention is our first line of defense. By raising awareness, implementing robust safety protocols, and ensuring prompt access to emergency medical care, we can create safer workplaces for all Nigerians. Let us renew our commitment to reducing workplace injuries through proactive prevention and effective management strategies,” she urged.
Mr. Atabo Oloche, Chief Search Rescue Officer at the National Emergency Management Authority, highlighted that the burden of trauma is particularly heavy in Africa. He noted that experiences of trauma can be life-threatening, life-altering, and life-defining.
Oloche also emphasized the importance of staffing trauma hospitals and centers with qualified professionals possessing relevant training and experience.
World Trauma Day serves to foster empathy, resilience, and support for trauma survivors, emphasizing the collective responsibility to improve trauma care and prevention strategies in Nigeria.
