NMA urges careful introduction of euthanasia in Nigeria

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called for caution in the introduction of euthanasia in medical practice in Nigeria.

Euthanasia is the practice of ending the life of a person suffering from an incurable or painful disease at his or her request. Also called mercy killing.

The newly elected president of NMA, Prof. Bala Audu made the call yesterday in Abuja while briefing newsmen about the 64th annual general conference (AGC) and delegates meeting (DM) of the association held in Calabar, Cross River State from 5th to May 12, 2024.

The theme of the conference was “Reversing the trend of health sector brain drain” while the subtheme was “euthanasia in medical practice.”

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He said the careful introduction of euthanasia in the country was important because of ethical, legal, religious, social and cultural diversities.

He said that as of now, euthanasia in whatever form is illegal and punishable by the provision of Section 306 of the criminal code in Nigeria.