Repositioning Anatomists in Nigeria for National Development: Challenges and Policy Perspectives, Beyond the Morgue and Classroom: Repositioning Anatomists in Nigeria for National Development: Challenges and Policy Perspectives, Beyond the Morgue and Classroom

Joseph Raymond Enoghase; JohnFavour Ehijiagbon Aig-Unuigbe; Ilefeghian Brownson Osarinmwian; Christabel Chioma Onyemechi; Adaeze Christabel Olisemeke

doi:10.47456/hb.64.49510

Autores

Joseph Raymond Enoghase University of Benin https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4603-6853
JohnFavour Ehijiagbon Aig-Unuigbe University of Benin, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0006-9104-4667
Ilefeghian Brownson Osarinmwian University of Benin, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0002-8294-9203
Christabel Chioma Onyemechi University of Benin https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3879-4923
Adaeze Christabel Olisemeke University of Benin https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4016-4755

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47456/hb.64.49510

Palavras-chave:

anatomy education, professional development, forensic application, biomedical innovations, health policy reform, Nigeria

Resumo

Anatomists in Nigeria continue to be perceived primarily as educators and custodians of cadavers—roles rooted in colonial medical traditions. This limited view has obscured the wider relevance of anatomical science in national development. In contrast, global practice now positions Anatomists as integral contributors to surgical training, forensic investigation, biomedical innovation, and public-health research. This paper, titled Repositioning Anatomists in Nigeria for National Development: Challenges and Policy Perspectives, Beyond the Morgue and Classroom, critically examines the socio-institutional and legal factors that confine Nigerian Anatomists to narrow professional roles. It adopts a narrative literature review and policy-analysis approach to evaluate global best practices, identify structural barriers, and propose actionable reforms for Nigeria. Key findings reveal persistent stereotypes, outdated curricula, inadequate policy recognition, and the continued enforcement of the obsolete Anatomy Act 1933, while the proposed Anatomy Bill 2021, which would empower Anatomists through professional regulation and broader practice rights remains unpassed. The paper calls for curriculum modernization, policy advocacy, interprofessional collaboration, and the establishment of a functional Anatomy Council of Nigeria. Repositioning the discipline beyond the morgue and classroom is essential for integrating Anatomists into clinical, forensic, research, and technological sectors. Doing so will not only elevate the profession but also strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare, innovation, and scientific-development capacity for the 21st century.

Biografia do Autor

Joseph Raymond Enoghase, University of Benin

Joseph Raymond Enoghase is associated with the Department of Anatomy, School of Basis Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.
JohnFavour Ehijiagbon Aig-Unuigbe, University of Benin, Nigeria

Joseph Raymond Enoghase is associated with the Department of Anatomy, School of Basis Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria
Ilefeghian Brownson Osarinmwian, University of Benin, Nigeria

Ilefeghian Brownson Osarinmwian is associated with the Department of Anatomy, School of Basis Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.
Christabel Chioma Onyemechi, University of Benin

ChristabelChioma Onyemechiis associated with the Department of Anatomy, School of Basis Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.
Adaeze Christabel Olisemeke, University of Benin

Adaeze Christabel Olisemeke is associated with the Department of Anatomy, School of Basis Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.

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Repositioning Anatomists in Nigeria for National Development: Challenges and Policy Perspectives, Beyond the Morgue and Classroom