World Alzheimer’s Day: Stakeholders Call For Early Diagnosis, Better Care In Nigeria

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s health and humanitarian sectors on Monday renewed calls for early diagnosis and improved care for persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, as the country marked World Alzheimer’s Day 2026 with an awareness walk and conference in Abuja.

The event was organised by the National Association of Seadogs (Sahara Deck) in partnership with the Caring Lot International Initiative (CLII), under the theme “Know Early, Care Better: Changing the Story of Alzheimer’s in Nigeria.”

Stakeholders at the event said early detection remains critical to the effective management of Alzheimer’s disease, stressing that late diagnosis often worsens patient outcomes and increases the physical, emotional and financial burden on families and caregivers.

At the event, Chairman, Caring Lot International Initiative(CLII),Professor Adesoji Adesugba, said: “Early diagnosis is not just a medical milestone; it is the beginning of better care. When families recognise memory loss, confusion or changes in behaviour early and seek evaluation, we can slow progression, manage symptoms and reduce the burden on caregivers.”

The CEO, CLII. Engr Lawumi Ismail, said stigma and poor information were leaving too many families to cope alone. “Too many Nigerian families are carrying this burden alone, often because of stigma and lack of information,” the coordinator said. “Our partnership with Sahara Deck is about changing that story—by putting knowledge, support and dignity within reach of every affected person.”

Also speaking, Second Mate (Chief Programs Officer) Sahara Deck.Aloy Atsenokhai, called for greater public understanding of dementia and stronger support for caregivers. “Alzheimer’s is not a curse, nor is it a normal part of ageing that should be ignored,” he said. “Through this walk and conference, we are saying to Nigerians: know the signs early, care better, and stand with caregivers.”

Organisers said the event was aimed at raising public awareness, reducing stigma and promoting timely intervention for people affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

They urged Nigerians to pay attention to early warning signs, seek timely medical evaluation, and support caregivers with adequate information, resources and care. They also called for stronger support systems, improved caregiver training and greater public understanding of dementia in Nigeria.

World Alzheimer’s Day is marked every September 21 to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.