The Chief Medical Director of Wellington Hospital, Abuja, Dr Charles Ugwuanyi, has raised concerns over the growing risk of kidney damage associated with poorly controlled hypertension and diabetes, urging Nigerians to embrace regular health screening, early diagnosis and appropriate medical treatment.
Ugwuanyi gave the warning at a press conference to commemorate the hospital’s 15th anniversary, where he highlighted the dangers of undiagnosed chronic illnesses, improper medication use and delayed medical intervention.
He disclosed that Nigeria records approximately 9,000 new cases of end-stage kidney failure every month, warning that hypertension and diabetes could gradually impair kidney function when left undetected or inadequately managed.
According to him, persistent high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels responsible for supplying the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste from the blood. Similarly, prolonged exposure to elevated blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys’ filtering units, potentially leading to severe complications.
The hospital chief urged Nigerians to make routine checks of their blood pressure and blood sugar levels a priority, noting that early detection and effective management of these conditions could significantly reduce the risk of kidney disease.
He also warned against the indiscriminate use of painkillers, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, indomethacin and naproxen, which can affect kidney function when used inappropriately.
Ugwuanyi stressed that people with existing kidney problems or other risk factors should be particularly cautious about taking such medications without proper medical guidance.
The neurosurgeon further advised Nigerians to avoid self-medication and seek professional medical attention when experiencing persistent symptoms or managing known chronic conditions. He emphasised that adherence to prescribed treatment, healthier lifestyle choices and timely medical intervention remained essential to preventing serious health complications.
Hospital installs seven dialysis machines
As part of efforts to strengthen its capacity to manage complex medical conditions, Ugwuanyi said Wellington Hospital had installed seven dialysis machines to support critically ill patients who develop kidney complications during severe illness or following surgery.
He explained that the facility continued to expand its specialist services through collaborations with healthcare professionals, with a focus on improving access to advanced treatment and supporting patients requiring specialised care.
The CMD also highlighted the hospital’s achievements in neurological and neurosurgical services since its establishment in February 2011.
According to him, the hospital has attended to 9,457 patients and performed 4,657 surgeries over the past 15 years, reflecting its contribution to specialised healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
He explained that the hospital was established to provide advanced treatment for disorders affecting the brain, spine and peripheral nerves. He and his colleague, Dr Jubril, founded the facility after undergoing training at a specialist neurological and neurosurgical hospital in London, with the intention of bringing their expertise back to Nigeria.
Of the 4,657 surgical procedures performed at the facility, Ugwuanyi disclosed that 2,150 were brain operations, while 2,307 involved the spine. The remaining procedures covered other surgical interventions.
Investment in specialised healthcare
The CMD said the hospital had expanded its infrastructure and specialist services to improve access to advanced medical care within the country.
Its diagnostic and treatment capabilities include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, electroencephalography (EEG) for epilepsy assessment, intensive care, neurorehabilitation and six operating suites.
Ugwuanyi stressed that delivering quality healthcare required sustained investment in modern equipment, dependable electricity, skilled personnel and professional development.
He added that patient safety, staff training and collaboration with local and international specialists remained central to the hospital’s operations and long-term development.
Solar energy improves hospital operations
The hospital chief also disclosed that Wellington Hospital had recorded 120 days of uninterrupted power supply following its transition to solar energy.
According to him, the development had helped reduce equipment breakdowns and lower operating costs, while improving the reliability of essential hospital services.
He noted that a dependable power supply was particularly important for healthcare facilities that rely on sophisticated diagnostic equipment, surgical technology and critical care services.
Ugwuanyi reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to strengthening specialised healthcare delivery and improving access to advanced neurological and neurosurgical treatment in Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to take greater responsibility for their health by undergoing regular medical checks, avoiding the misuse of medications and seeking professional care early, particularly when living with conditions such as hypertension and diabetes that can have serious consequences if left unmanaged.