The Honourable Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmud, has officially commissioned Nigeria's first public defibrillator at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) headquarters, Abuja.

The event marked the launch of the “Bring Back to Life” initiative by the Nigerian Cardiac Society, aimed at empowering Nigerians with Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) skills to reduce fatalities from sudden cardiac arrest.

It took place at the NOUN headquarters on Wednesday, September 16, 2024, and drew stakeholders from the healthcare sector, academic leaders, and students.

The minister, in her speech, commended the Nigerian Cardiac Society for spearheading the programme, and lauded it as an example of effective public-private collaboration aligned with the goals of the current administration led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

“This programme ensures Nigerians are prepared to respond quickly in times of emergency. It is more than just a catchphrase; it is a vision for a more responsive and healthy Nigeria.

“I implore everyone, including citizens, leaders, and medical professionals, to embrace this interventionist culture and encourage healthy living,” she said.

A keynote speaker and paediatric cardiologist from the Lagos State University, Prof. B.A. Animashaun, reflected on the prevalence of sudden cardiac deaths in Nigeria, recounting tragic incidents involving public figures and ordinary citizens alike.

 Animashaun stressed that many deaths could be prevented if people were equipped with basic life-saving skills.

She debunked myths surrounding resuscitation efforts, citing several outdated practices such as pouring water or oil, burning pepper, or placing spoons in patients' mouths, which do more harm than good.

 "It is not the time to panic or turn to superstition; what matters are the first few seconds of intervention—doing something meaningful can save lives—whether through CPR or using a defibrillator—makes all the difference," she said.

The keynote speaker highlighted how CPR is not just for adults, citing instances where infants and children could have been saved with timely intervention.

Comparing routine medical examinations to routine auto-mobile maintenance, Professor Animashaun also urged Nigerians to have frequent check-ups.

"We need to service ourselves; just like we service our cars; be aware of your weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure because these minor adjustments could save your life,” She added.

She expressed optimism about the role of the "Bring Back to Life" programme in saving lives, stating that it was a call to action for every Nigerian.

Earlier In his welcome address, NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, lauded the initiative and its potentials to save lives, noting that public knowledge of CPR could change tragic outcomes during emergencies.

"We are proud to host this launch as it symbolises the university’s commitment to the programme and equally to ensuring our community is equipped with practical skills for emergencies," he said.

The Vice-Chancellor also expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Cardiac Society and the dedicated trainers for their commitment to this programme, and expressed happiness that such a critical initiative was being launched at no cost at the institution.

Chairman BBL Steering Committee, Dr. Akinyemi Aje, underscored that the “Bring Back to Life” programme is part of a larger mission to make CPR training accessible across Nigeria, expressing hope that placing defibrillators in public spaces, like the one now commissioned at NOUN, would inspire other institutions to follow suit.

He emphasised that the training wasn’t just for healthcare professionals but for every Nigerian, including students and market workers, to ensure that everyone knows what to do in an emergency.