Indian hospital promotes former Nigerian leader after knee surgery
An Indian hospital has used images and video of former Nigerian Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar in promotional material following his knee replacement surgery. The publicity has prompted criticism in Nigeria, while the treatment has renewed debate over medical care abroad and public investment in the country’s health system.
An Indian hospital has featured former Nigerian Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar in promotional material after he underwent knee replacement surgery there, prompting criticism from Nigerians. A video circulating on social media shows Abubakar receiving care at Krishna Shalby Hospital in Ahmedabad, including footage of him walking and exercising after the procedure. The hospital has also posted images of Abubakar and Vice President Kashim Shettima while promoting services for international patients.
In an Instagram post on Monday, the hospital said Shettima visited its management and discussed Abubakar’s progress and wellbeing. It described the visit as evidence of growing trust in Indian healthcare and its commitment to overseas patients. It is not clear whether Abubakar’s treatment was fully sponsored by the Nigerian federal government.
The Remuneration of Former Presidents and Heads of State Act entitles former heads of state and their immediate families to free medical treatment in Nigeria and, where necessary, abroad at federal government expense. The law also provides benefits including diplomatic passports, protocol privileges, official vehicles, accommodation, security and annual holidays funded by the federal government. Nigeria’s 2026 budget provides N2.3 billion for entitlements for former presidents, heads of state and their deputies.
Activist and presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore criticised the hospital’s use of Abubakar’s image after sharing the video on X. He questioned why Nigerian leaders who had opportunities to improve domestic healthcare continued to seek specialised treatment abroad. Barrister Aloy Ejimafor also described the advertisement as a diplomatic insult.
The episode has revived wider criticism of medical tourism by Nigerian political leaders. In April 2025, Health Minister Muhammad Pate said Nigeria lost an estimated $2 billion annually to medical tourism, citing gaps in confidence, access and quality in the country’s healthcare system.
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