Healthy Living Is Central To Economic Development – Trado-medical Practitioner 

A trado-medical practitioner in Ikem – Ivite Nando in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State, Mr Chukwugozie Anigbogu has stated that without prejudice to the type of health facility in place, healthy living is central to economic development.

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Mr Anigbogu made the assertion in Ikem – Ivite Nando during his conferment as the “Okpata Ozuora” of Nando (the wealth that is extended to all) by Ezeuzu the second of Ikem Ivite kingdom at the monarch’s second Ofala festival.

Defining trado-medical practices as, all total of knowledge or practices used in diagnosing, preventing or eliminating a physical, mental or social diseases, Anigbogu affirmed the practices are still relevant among the Nigeria populace, particularly those in the satellite settlements are manifested in income, education, productivity and health status.

“According to World Health Organization (2002), trado-medicine refers to health practices, approaches, knowledge and beliefs incorporating plant, animal and mineral based medicines, spiritual, therapies, manual techniques and exercises applied singularly or in combination to treat, diagnose and prevent illnesses or maintain wellbeing.

“WHO, affirms further that trado-medical comprises of therapeutic practices that have been in existence often for hundreds of years before the development of modern scientific medicines and are still in use today without any documented evidence of adverse effects. 

“In many counties of the world, Nigeria inclusive demand for traditional medicine is on the increase because of its proven quality, safety and efficacy (WHO, 2013).

This trend may have resulted in a WHO policy document 2002-2005 on Traditional Medicine Strategy, which has been revised in 2013 christened WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014-2023.

Anigbogu further stated that although traditional medicine is an underestimated part of health delivery system, its function remains central in the wellbeing of many.

“In Nigeria, trado-medical practices have been incorporated into the health delivery system (WHO, 2002).Suffice to add that, trado-medical practices are socio-cultural heritage, acquired unconsciously with age long history. The beauties of the trado-medical practices are aligned to its accessibility and affordability for the rural populace, where accessibility to orthodox medicine is limited by cost and inaccessibility.”

Anigbogu, who called on Nigerians to prioritise their well being, urged Trado-medical Practitioner to remain united and offer selfless service to patients who beckon them.

The philanthropist who is currently funding the scholarship bills for the less privileged in various schools in Nando ,Anambra State, also funds and equip farmers in his community from the proceeds of his Trado-medical practice.

Speaking at the event, Professor of Sino- Afro Cultures and Anthropology in Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Unizik) Awka, Professor Onukwube Alfred Anaedo urged political, traditional and religious leaders in the society to always nurture, exhibit and uphold their various cultures and traditions in their dealings with citizens.

Professor Anaedo who was inaugurated into the council of elders at the second Ofala festival of Igwe Ezeuzu the second of Ikem Ivite kingdom, promised to do more in youth employment and societal development. He urged other professors, political, traditional and religious leaders to assist in fostering peace and development in their various communities.

Earlier, the monarch called on traditional rulers to always carry their subjects along.