Assessment of neurosurgical education in Nigeria: looking at the preclinical and clinical educational foundation

Abstract Neurosurgical education in Nigeria encounters significant challenges characterised by a shortage of trained specialists, inadequate infrastructure, and limited educational resources. With approximately one neurosurgeon per 5.5 million people, the demand for surgical intervention far exceeds the available supply, leading to prolonged waiting times for patients. The quality of training is further compromised by a lack of modern equipment and standardised curricula, which hampers residents’ hands-on experience in complex procedures. This study reviews the current state of neurosurgical education in Nigeria, highlighting the critical need for enhanced training programs and resources. It suggests potential solutions, including partnerships with international institutions to facilitate mentorship and improve access to educational opportunities. Additionally, the study addresses the low interest among medical students in pursuing neurosurgery, influenced by prevailing myths and the gender disparity within the field. It emphasises the role of medical schools in providing foundational knowledge in neuroanatomy and clinical exposure to surgery and neurology. However, the effectiveness of this instruction remains inconsistent across institutions. Ultimately, this assessment underscores the urgent need for reforms in neurosurgical education in Nigeria to cultivate a robust workforce capable of meeting the nation’s healthcare demands and improving outcomes for patients requiring surgical intervention.