DOHA: President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation in Qatar (NIDO-Qatar), Dr. Michael Miller Ihekwaba, has urged members of the Nigerian community to prioritise their health and wellbeing.
In a statement addressed to the Nigerian community, Dr. Ihekwaba emphasised the importance of regular medical examinations, healthy lifestyles and stronger community support, warning against neglecting personal wellbeing in the pursuit of financial stability and professional success.
“We are all working hard to survive, meet family responsibilities, and build a better future, but please, let us not sacrifice our health in the process.”
Dr. Ihekwaba expressed concern over the potential dangers associated with high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, unmanaged stress and other underlying health conditions, stressing the importance of early detection and preventive healthcare.
He encouraged Nigerians living in Qatar to undergo regular medical screenings, particularly for blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, noting that some serious health conditions may develop without noticeable symptoms.
The NIDO-Qatar President also advised community members to maintain balanced diets, engage in regular physical activity, get adequate sleep and adopt effective stress-management practices.
He urged individuals experiencing chest pain, breathing difficulties, unusual fatigue or sudden dizziness to seek immediate medical attention rather than ignore potentially serious warning signs.
Beyond physical health, Dr. Ihekwaba highlighted the importance of emotional wellbeing and social connections, calling for renewed commitment to the organisation's Each One, Reach One initiative, launched earlier this year.
The initiative encourages Nigerians in Qatar to maintain regular contact with fellow community members, particularly those experiencing personal difficulties, emotional distress or social isolation.
“Our responsibility to one another goes beyond meeting at events and celebrations; it is also about genuinely caring for one another,” he said.
According to him, simple gestures such as checking on friends, colleagues and neighbours could help identify individuals struggling with stress or other personal challenges and encourage them to seek appropriate support.
He noted that Nigerians living abroad often face considerable pressure to meet financial obligations, support relatives and establish secure livelihoods, making it essential to strike a balance between professional responsibilities and personal wellbeing.
Dr. Ihekwaba reiterated that the strength of the Nigerian community depends not only on its professional achievements and social activities but also on the health and welfare of its members.
“Please, take your health seriously. No let the Qatar hustle finish you. Your life matters, your family needs you, and our community needs you. Together, we are stronger,” he said.
The NIDO-Qatar President called on Nigerians to embrace a culture of preventive healthcare, mutual support and personal responsibility, stressing that protecting lives must remain a collective priority.
His appeal also underscores the importance of stronger community engagement and awareness of cardiovascular health risks among Nigerians living and working in Qatar.
