The Paramount Chief of Traditional Medicine of Hausa Land and National President of the Supreme Royal Association of Herbal Practitioners of Nigeria (SURAHEP), Dr Abdul Razak Toure, has outlined an ambitious five-year plan to reposition traditional medicine as a central pillar of Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Speaking during a national gathering of traditional medicine royals, practitioners, and stakeholders, Dr Toure said the event marked “a defining moment” for custodians of one of Africa’s oldest knowledge systems.

He stressed that traditional medicine must evolve with unity, ethics, and professional standards to secure its future in Nigeria.

“SURAHEP was founded with a clear purpose: to unite, strengthen, and elevate the practice of traditional medicine.

“Our vision is to become the leading, globally recognized authority for ethical, culturally grounded, and professionally practiced traditional medicine,” he said in his welcome address.

Dr Toure further unveiled a detailed roadmap structured to transform SURAHEP from a national association into a recognized regulatory and regional force.

They are as follows:

• Year One: Legitimacy and Policy Engagement
The association will pursue official recognition, expand membership, reinforce its ethical code, and deepen engagements with government institutions.

• Year Two: Professionalization
SURAHEP plans to launch a Training and Certification Academy, standardize professional courses, and collaborate with academic bodies to validate indigenous practices.

• Year Three: National Expansion
This phase will focus on establishing regional chapters, integrating pilot traditional medicine programs into government health centers, and documenting remedies through a “Knowledge Bank Initiative.”

• Year Four: Systemic Recognition
Leveraging strengthened ties with Emirate Councils and advanced certification systems, SURAHEP aims to push for official regulatory authority status.

• Year Five: Global Positioning

The association seeks to host a West African Traditional Medicine Summit, establish a digital registry for practitioners, and achieve financial sustainability.

Dr Toure emphasised that unity remains the cornerstone of this transformation.

“We must move as one family — committed to ethics, transparency, accountability, and the greater good of our communities,” he noted, adding that traditional healers are “cultural ambassadors and guardians of knowledge.”

In his appreciation message, Dr Toure extended gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Health for its “openness, guidance, and engagement,” noting that the ministry’s support is crucial in advancing traditional medicine toward national integration.

He also commended the kings and queens of traditional medicine across Nigeria for their unwavering cultural leadership.

“You represent the heritage and dignity upon which traditional medicine stands,” he said.

Dr Abdul Razak Toure also acknowledged the dedication of SURAHEP members, partners, committee leaders, and all individuals who contributed to the success of the gathering.

“To everyone who traveled far and near to be here, your presence is a reminder that we share one purpose: to uplift traditional medicine, preserve our heritage, and work toward a healthier, stronger Nigeria,” he said.

The event closed with renewed calls for unity, accountability, and professionalism as SURAHEP positions itself to shape the future of traditional healthcare in Nigeria and across West Africa.

“This is the beginning of a new era. May our work continue to bring healing, dignity, and progress to our people,” Dr Toure declared.