The Nigerian Thoracic Society has stressed the need to use technology to close the country’s respiratory care gaps. This was the focus of its scientific conference and annual general meeting held on November 20, 2025, in Lagos, with the theme “Harnessing Technology to Advance Equitable Respiratory Care in Nigeria.”
The President of the association, Professor Musa Babashani, said the annual event allows the society to review respiratory care issues and connect with global developments. He noted that Nigeria is still behind in adopting technology and explained that this year’s theme aims to promote knowledge-sharing, networking, and renewed attention to telemedicine. He assured Nigerians that the society is committed to expanding telemedicine so people in remote areas can access information on prevention and early intervention for common respiratory conditions.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, represented by Dr. David Atuwo, commended the society for its commitment to research, education, and service delivery in respiratory medicine. He said the theme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasises technology, innovation, and inclusive development. He added that the society’s work supports national health policy dialogue and strengthens the link between education, science, and healthcare.
Guest speaker, Dr. Ayodele Renner, a consultant paediatrician and content creator, spoke on the role of digital technology in public enlightenment and community engagement. He said the public needs accurate information to prevent diseases and improve well-being, especially as pneumonia remains a leading infectious threat to children. He explained that digital platforms such as social media and WhatsApp can help educate people on common respiratory illnesses from mild conditions to serious ones like tuberculosis and asthma and on ways to protect their respiratory health.
Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Professor Olufunke Adeyeye, described the conference as the largest gathering of respiratory specialists in Nigeria. She said it brings together adult and paediatric experts to explore how technology can support equitable respiratory care. She emphasised that respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and asthma require more awareness and community involvement, noting that the responsibility cannot rest on government alone. She added that technology is helping the society share information more widely and encourage early recognition of respiratory conditions.
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