Mr David Jacob, a traditional medicine practitioner has called on governments at all levels and well meaning Nigerians to invest more and support the traditional medicine sector in the country.
He stated this at the fourth anniversary of the David Trado Medical Clinic in Karu local government area of Nasarawa state recently
Our reporter reports that Traditional medicine refers to the knowledge, skills and practices rooted in the cultural beliefs of various societies, used for maintaining health and treating illnesses.
According to Jacob who is the founder of the center, the huge potentials in traditional medicine in contributing to the economic growth and better health of Nigerians are yet to be fully harnessed because of the belief that traditional medicine has a connection with witchcraft.
He denies this notion and says the gift of traditional medicine is given from God and knowledge from ancestors of proper use of local herbs and roots and other methods in treating Illnesses.
Jacob who said if more investments, and support is given to the sector, Nigeria and Nigerians will benefit hugely from the sector added that to change the mindset of some Nigerians who think negativity of traditional medicine and opt for western medicine, more sensitization needs to be done.
“For those who want to join this business, done be discourage. Put all your hopes in God and be determined and before you know it, you will achieve your breakthrough.
“I started this journey years back and I told God to please give me a place where people will come. I was determined and believed in myself. Now see where I am. People come here and they get treated after going to hospitals and could not get the result they wanted.
Secondly people are misconstruing me a s pries or diviner or babalawo as they call them but I am not a babalawo. I don’t invoke spirits or do the things they do. Can a babalawo use X Ray machine and other equipment we use here, No!” he said.
He pointed out if adequate sensitization is don to highlights the difference between traditional medicine and diviners, more Nigerians will be open to explore what the sector can offer them in lieu of improving their health.
Jacob who reiterated his appeal for support to the sector appreciated his mother and all those who stood by him and supported him to get to where he is presently.