Chibogwu Igwe-Nmaju: Transforming Healthcare Communication in Nigeria

Fadekemi Ajakaiye 

Chibogwu Igwe-Nmaju, a dedicated advocate for effective healthcare communication in Nigeria, is at the forefront of bridging the gap between modern medicine and the country’s diverse cultural landscape. With a deep understanding of the intersection between language, culture, and health literacy, she has emphasized the critical need for accessible and culturally relevant healthcare communication strategies.

Rethinking healthcare communication

in a nation as linguistically rich as Nigeria, where over 500 languages are spoken, many individuals struggle to navigate the healthcare system due to language barriers and deeply rooted traditional beliefs. 

Igwe-Nmaju highlights that without clear and culturally sensitive communication, misinformation thrives, leading to poor treatment adherence and preventable health complications.

“Healthcare isn’t just about medicine; it’s about connection. If we don’t speak the language of the people both literally and culturally, we risk leaving millions behind,” she asserts.

Addressing the Health Literacy Gap

Language and cultural beliefs remain two of the most significant barriers to healthcare access in Nigeria. Many patients, particularly in rural areas, face challenges understanding prescriptions and medical advice given in English. Additionally, traditional medicine holds a strong influence, and skepticism toward modern healthcare practices persists.

Research supports Igwe-Nmaju’s stance. A 2022 article in The Nigerian Health Journal titled “Assessing the Effectiveness of Community-Focused Information Dissemination in the Nigerian Health Sector during Disease Outbreak” by Wogu and Egwu discusses the critical role of culturally sensitive communication strategies in improving health outcomes. They highlight that leveraging local languages and understanding cultural nuances are essential for effective healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Igwe-Nmaju believes that adopting these approaches is key to fostering trust between healthcare professionals and patients, ensuring that medical information is both accessible and actionable.

She advocates for three key tranformative strategies to bridge health literacy gap. Starting with multilingual health communication,

expanding public health messaging in Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Pidgin, and other indigenous languages through radio, television, and social media to ensure that medical information reaches people in a relatable way.

Also, cultural competency training for healthcare workers is important. Equipping doctors and nurses with the skills to engage with patients beyond medical jargon fosters trust and encourages treatment adherence. When patients feel respected, they are more likely to embrace medical guidance.

Additionally, leveraging technology for inclusive healthcare. Mobile apps that provide health information in local dialects can revolutionize accessibility. By integrating digital tools with traditional communication methods, Nigeria can create a more inclusive healthcare system.

As per vision for the future, Chibogwu Igwe-Nmaju’s advocacy is a call to action for a healthcare system that truly serves all Nigerians. By prioritizing clear, culturally informed, and technology-driven communication, she envisions a future where every Nigerian—regardless of language or background—can make informed health decisions.

For Nigeria’s healthcare sector to thrive, it must do more than provide medical services; it must speak the language of the people.