By Opeyemi Adelakun
The family of veteran journalist Debo Adesina has appealed for financial assistance as the former Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian continues treatment in a Canadian hospital following a severe stroke.
Adesina, who also served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Togo, has been receiving medical care since July after falling critically ill while visiting his children in Canada.
His wife, Oluyemisi Adesina, said he travelled to Canada on June 24 and suffered the stroke on July 9.
She disclosed that the journalist spent over a month in the Intensive Care Unit before being transferred to the General Hospital on August 11.
Although his condition remains serious, the family said there have been encouraging signs in his recovery.
According to his wife, Adesina has started gradually emerging from an induced coma and continues to require extensive medical attention.
The prolonged treatment, however, has placed significant financial pressure on the family.
She said the outstanding hospital bills had risen above CAD$205,000 as of August 24, with additional costs accumulating as his treatment continues.
The family is consequently seeking assistance from Adesina’s former colleagues, friends, professional associates and others who have interacted with him throughout his career.
His wife said the hospital had expressed concerns about the continuation of his care because of the unpaid medical expenses.
She appealed to those willing to help to contact her for details on how to make contributions, while also asking them to circulate the appeal among others who may be able to assist.
Adesina is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s media industry, having held senior editorial positions and later served in the diplomatic service.
His career includes a stint as Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian, one of Nigeria’s leading newspapers, before his appointment as ambassador to Togo.
The family said it remained hopeful about his recovery and urged Nigerians and others who know him to keep him in their prayers.
“We are trusting God for his recovery, and we are also trusting in the compassion and generosity of those who have been part of his journey,” his wife said.
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