Senator Maidoki Urges Recognition of Traditional Medicine

…Says Native Doctors Intercede with Ancestors

Senator Sahabi Maidoki has sparked fresh debate in Nigeria’s health and cultural sectors by calling for formal recognition of traditional medicine, arguing that native doctors play a vital role in interceding with ancestors and preserving indigenous healing practices. His remarks highlight the tension between modern medical systems and centuries-old traditions that continue to thrive across communities.

Nigeria’s Senate has been drawn into a new cultural and health debate following remarks by Senator Sahabi Maidoki (PDP, Kebbi South), who urged the federal government to formally recognize traditional medicine as part of the country’s healthcare system. Maidoki argued that native doctors, often dismissed as unscientific, play a crucial role in interceding with ancestors and providing remedies that have sustained communities for generations.

Speaking during plenary, Maidoki emphasized that traditional medicine should not be relegated to the margins of society, especially when millions of Nigerians rely on herbal remedies and indigenous healing practices due to limited access to modern healthcare. He noted that traditional healers often serve as the first point of contact for rural populations, offering affordable and culturally relevant treatments.

According to reports by Punch Newspapers and Vanguard, Maidoki stated: “Native doctors intercede with ancestors, and their practices are deeply rooted in our culture. We cannot continue to ignore them while our people depend on their services.” He urged the Senate to consider legislation that would integrate traditional medicine into Nigeria’s health framework, alongside orthodox medical practice.

The senator’s comments come at a time when Nigeria is grappling with rising healthcare costs, shortages of medical personnel, and inadequate infrastructure. Analysts argue that recognizing traditional medicine could help bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved rural areas.

However, Maidoki’s proposal has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters say it reflects a pragmatic approach to healthcare, acknowledging the reality that traditional medicine remains widely used despite skepticism from the medical establishment. They argue that regulation and recognition would ensure safety standards, protect patients, and preserve indigenous knowledge.

Critics, on the other hand, caution that elevating traditional medicine without rigorous scientific validation could expose Nigerians to harmful practices. Medical professionals stress that while herbal remedies may have benefits, they must undergo clinical trials and regulatory approval to guarantee efficacy and safety.

Nigeria has previously taken steps toward integrating traditional medicine. The Federal Ministry of Health established the Department of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine, tasked with developing policies to regulate the sector. Yet progress has been slow, with many practitioners operating informally and without oversight.

Maidoki’s intervention may reignite momentum for reform. Lawmakers are expected to debate whether traditional medicine should be formally recognized under Nigeria’s healthcare laws, potentially opening the door to licensing, training, and collaboration between native doctors and orthodox practitioners.

Beyond healthcare, the senator’s remarks touch on broader cultural questions. For centuries, traditional medicine has been intertwined with spirituality, rituals, and ancestral beliefs. Recognizing native doctors would not only validate their role in health delivery but also affirm Nigeria’s cultural heritage in the face of globalization.

As the debate unfolds, Nigerians remain divided. Some see Maidoki’s call as a bold step toward inclusivity, while others worry it could blur the line between science and spirituality. What is clear is that the conversation has placed traditional medicine firmly on the national agenda, forcing policymakers to confront the realities of a dual healthcare system that millions already navigate daily.