FG condemns kidnapping of consultant neurosurgeon in Anambra

The Federal Government has strongly condemned the abduction of Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi, Anambra State, who was kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Speaking on the incident, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, expressed profound concern over the attack, which occurred around Omatha Junction, Uruagu, Nnewi, as Dr. Mbanugo was returning home after performing multiple critical neurosurgical procedures, including the resection of a complex brain tumour.

“His abduction occurred at the very point where he should have been safest: returning home from serving humanity,” Dr. Salako said, adding that the abductors later established contact through his phone with some of his colleagues.

Highlighting the country’s shortage of specialist doctors, Salako noted that Nigeria has fewer than 150 practising neurosurgeons for over 220 million people, far below the WHO benchmark of one neurosurgeon per 100,000 population.

“An attack on one specialist doctor is a direct assault on the nation’s health security and a threat to our collective wellbeing,” he stressed.

The Ministry called on the Anambra State Government and all relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to locate Dr. Mbanugo and ensure his safe and unconditional release.

Salako also reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting healthcare workers, describing them as national assets who must be safeguarded while performing critical services.

“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 Minister added.