Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has expressed profound concern over the kidnapping of Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi in Anambra State in Southeastern Nigeria, who was abducted by unknown armed men on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
The statement signed by Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, stated that reports from the hospital indicate that Dr. Mbanugo was attacked around the Omatha Junction, Uruagu, Nnewi, while on his way home after an intensive day in the operating theatre.
It noted that earlier that same day, he had performed multiple critical neurosurgical procedures, including the resection of a complex brain tumour, saving lives and delivering highly specialised care to Nigerians in need.
“His abduction occurred at the very point where he should have been safest: returning home from serving humanity.
“The ministry has also been informed that subsequent contact was later established by the abductors through his phone to some of his colleagues.
“The matter has since been formally reported to the Anambra State Police Command, Department of State Services, DSS, Nigeria Police Anti-Kidnapping Squad, and the State Vigilante structures,” the statement said.
It noted that the management of NAUTH is actively collaborating with security agencies, the Nigerian Medical Association and relevant stakeholders to expedite his safe return.
It recalls that Nigeria currently has less than 150 practicing neurosurgeons serving a population of over 220 million people. Against the WHO benchmark of 1 neurosurgeon per 100,000 people, Nigeria has approximately 1 neurosurgeon per 1.9 million citizens.
“This makes every specialist we have invaluable. An attack on one specialist doctor is a direct assault on the nation’s health security and a threat to our collective wellbeing.
“The Federal Ministry strongly condemns this incident and every form of violence against healthcare workers. Our health workforce: doctors, nurses and allied health professionals are national assets working under immense pressure to save lives. They must be protected and respected, not harmed or hunted,” the statement said.
“We therefore call on the Anambra State Government and all relevant security agencies to intensify all efforts toward locating Dr. Mbanugo and ensuring his immediate and safe release, unharmed and unconditionally in honour of the humanitarian service he renders to the country.
“We stand firmly in solidarity with his family, colleagues, NAUTH management, the neurosurgical community, the NMA and the entire health sector at this painful time. The Ministry remains committed to strengthening the safety and security of health workers across Nigeria.” the statement added.
GIK/APA