Gunmen Kidnap Neurosurgeon in Anambra, FG Demands Swift Rescue

Gunmen have kidnapped Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, a consultant neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi, Anambra State. The incident occurred on October 30, 2025, along the New Nnewi-Oba Road while he was returning home after work.

Following the abduction, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare expressed concern over the incident, describing it as a threat to the safety of medical professionals in the country. According to the ministry, Mbanugo’s abductors later contacted his colleagues through his mobile phone.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, said the case has been reported to security agencies, including the Anambra State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS), the anti-kidnapping unit, and local vigilante groups.

He stated that the hospital management, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), and other relevant stakeholders are working closely with security operatives to ensure the doctor’s safe release.

Salako expressed concern about the low number of neurosurgeons in Nigeria, noting that the country has fewer than 150 practicing specialists serving a population of over 220 million. This, he said, is far below the World Health Organization’s recommendation of one neurosurgeon per 100,000 people.

The minister described every medical specialist as essential to the nation’s health system and urged that doctors, nurses, and other health workers be protected while carrying out their duties.

He called on the Anambra State Government and all security agencies to intensify their search efforts to ensure Dr. Mbanugo is rescued unharmed and reunited with his family.

The kidnapping has sparked fear among healthcare workers in the state, as they continue to face growing insecurity while serving in critical roles within the health sector.