Chukwu Obinna 
LAGOS, Nigeria – Medical experts have warned that trauma kills 4.4 million people annually, accounting for eight per cent of global deaths.
Speaking at the 46th Annual Scientific Conference of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Lagos (NOHIL), on Monday, Acting Medical Director, Dr. Wakeel Lawal said urgent government intervention is needed to strengthen Nigeria’s trauma response systems.
“Road traffic crashes remain the leading cause of death for people aged 5–29, and Nigeria carries a significant share of this toll,” Lawal said.
He explained that trauma’s impact stretches beyond patients to families, society, and the economy. “From loss of productivity and healthcare costs to emotional burdens on caregivers, trauma is underestimated yet devastating,” he stressed.
Head of Education and Training Schools, Dr. Ranti Babalola, urged the government to adopt a National Strategic Surgical Plan to tackle weak pre-hospital care, poor access to emergency facilities, and limited trauma response.
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Olatunji Idowu described trauma as both a medical and socio-economic crisis. “Orthopaedic injuries immobilise victims, strip families of income, and push households into poverty,” he said.
He added that hospital treatment costs—from registration to surgeries, imaging, and physiotherapy—create financial strain, while indirect costs worsen inequality.
“Most accidents are preventable. Without stronger regulations and public education, the numbers will only rise,” Idowu warned.
The conference theme, Socio-Economic Burden of Orthopaedic Trauma: Nipping the Menace in the Bud, highlighted the urgent need for preventive action and sustainable solutions.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Mirian Gom 
