Nigeria's lack of trained audiologists

With nearly 200 million people, Nigeria is the most populous nation in Africa, and one of the most populated countries in the world. It has a fast developing economy but is facing major social challenges. Naija 24/7 interviewed Mr Audu Modu, a surgical assistant and audiologist working at the Bingham University in Jos, Plateau.

Although hearing centers are operating across the country, mainly in urban areas, the interview demonstrates the huge lack of qualified professionals. According to Modu, there are only four qualified audiologists in the country. “Having one audiologist to take care of no fewer than 50 million Nigerians in the country … is not an acceptable ratio and not the best international practice,” he said. He also said that this has had a negative impact on technical know-how.

Modu said he is surprised by how few people are showing interest in the field. He said he was fortunate to learn more about the discipline during his training as a surgical assistant in bone-bridge surgery by MED-EL, when he was based in the United States. He believes that the field of audiology has a bright future in the country, given population growth and the massive needs of the people –millions are currently affected by some type of hearing disorder. He is hoping that he will be able to train young people to develop the field in Nigeria.

Source: Naija 24/7 News