The Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists (NSA) has announced plans to partner with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to educate citizens on how to respond effectively to health emergencies through awareness campaigns, training, and public sensitisation programmes.
President of the Society, Prof. Alhassan Mohammed, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Managing Director of NAN in Abuja on Wednesday. He said the move was part of efforts to mark World Anaesthesia Day, celebrated annually on October 16, with this year’s theme: “Anaesthesiology in Health Emergencies.”
Mohammed explained that the theme highlights the vital role anaesthesiologists play during emergencies and disasters, as they provide pain relief, airway management, and other life-saving interventions in critical conditions.
According to him, the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) will organise webinars and global events focusing on improving emergency preparedness, training, and capacity building for anaesthesia care during crises.
He also said the Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists promotes excellence among its members through continuous education, research, and collaboration to enhance clinical practice and patient safety.
Speaking on one of the society’s initiatives, Mohammed introduced the project titled “Basic Life Support in the Community,” which seeks to equip ordinary citizens with basic emergency response skills to stabilise victims before professional medical help arrives.
He noted that trauma cases from accidents, conflicts, and disasters make such training crucial in Nigeria.
In his response, NAN’s Managing Director, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, commended the initiative and pledged the agency’s support. He noted that NAN, which has operated for nearly 50 years, has offices across the 36 states and 109 senatorial districts of Nigeria, ensuring wide coverage for accurate and timely information dissemination.
Ali added that NAN also operates in parts of Africa, as well as New York and Johannesburg, and maintains partnerships with major global networks including Xinhua, Reuters, and BRICS Media.
He further explained that NAN is currently piloting local language reporting to promote inclusivity and ensure important news, such as health information, reaches Nigerians in their native languages.
According to him, this initiative aims to strengthen community engagement and ensure that no one is left out due to language barriers.
—NAN.
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