In a move to address the growing health crisis linked to heart-related conditions in Nigeria, the National Assembly has given the green light to establish the National Institute for Cardiovascular Disease, Research and Treatment in Kano State.
The bill, championed by Hassan Shehu Hussain, who represents the Nassarawa Federal Constituency of Kano State, successfully passed the House of Representatives on April 2 and received Senate concurrence on July 15.
The institute is expected to function as a national centre of excellence focused on diagnosis, treatment, research, and medical training in the field of cardiovascular health.
Speaking on the significance of the bill, Hussain emphasized the urgency, noting that heart disease has become one of the top causes of death in the country.
“Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has become one of the leading causes of death in Nigeria, placing immense pressure on the country’s health system,” he said.
A 2023 report by the Nigerian Heart Foundation supported this concern, revealing that over 30% of Nigerian adults suffer from high blood pressure, and one in five hospital deaths in the country is linked to cardiovascular issues.
The report pointed to urbanisation, poor diets, tobacco use, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of early diagnosis as key contributing factors.
Once operational, the Kano-based institute will provide:
Specialised treatment and rehabilitation for patients with heart conditions
Training programs for healthcare workers in cardiac care
Advanced research initiatives targeting cardiovascular diseases
Collaboration opportunities with both domestic and international stakeholders to secure funding and drive innovation
According to Hussain, the centre will offer far-reaching benefits beyond just healthcare services.
“The centre will not only provide cutting-edge cardiovascular care but also foster homegrown research and capacity building, particularly tailored to Nigeria’s unique health challenges.”
He further noted that the facility would play a critical role in generating jobs, spurring medical innovation and reducing the country’s reliance on foreign medical tourism for heart-related treatments.
