American-Based Nigerian Sleep Scientist Reveals the Impact of Sleep Deficiency on Humans

A U.S.-based Nigerian sleep researcher named Jesujoba Olanrewaju has pinpointed sleep deprivation as a contributing element that can elevate the incidence of negative health consequences such as heart diseases, diabetes, and early mortality within communities.

In an interview, Olanrewaju mentioned that a detailed analysis of more than 1,000 adult participants from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) was conducted in 2024. The survey showed that the majority of Nigerians only slightly surpassed the 50 percent mark when measured against standard sleep health indicators. This result has significant ramifications for public health concerns.

He mentioned that many Nigerians did not adhere to the suggested seven to nine hours of sleep each night, emphasizing that these recommended durations of nighttime rest are crucial for overall well-being.

Olanrewaju, a PhD candidate in the Department of Psychology at North Dakota State University in the United States, focuses on behavioral sleep medicine. His work has been showcased at prominent global gatherings such as the Society for Behavioral Medicine conference held in San Francisco, USA, and the Associated Professional Sleep Societies event in Seattle, USA. He asserts that significant differences exist concerning sleep quality among people living in rural areas compared to their urban counterparts.

He noted that Nigerians living in both rural and urban areas reported poorer quality of sleep when they had darker sleeping conditions, which goes against typical expectations found in Western contexts.

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Olanrewaju pointed out that these issues stem from contextual elements, emphasizing that worries about security, economic hardship, and unreliable power supply—factors often linked with nighttime—are major contributors to disruptions in sleeping habits.

He highlighted the importance of people regarding sleep as crucially necessary as nutrition to avoid negative health outcomes, simultaneously urging the government to incorporate sleep health into basic medical services and community programs.

The study carried out nationwide in 2024 revealed that Nigerian adults are struggling with sleep, which is particularly worrying considering the negative impact on their health. What raised alarm bells most was the common inability to get the suggested seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night, crucial for maintaining good health.

Olanrewaju, who is affiliated with organizations such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the Society for Behavioral Medicine, the World Sleep Society, the Nigerian Sleep Society, and the American Psychological Association, added, "It’s crucial for both authorities and citizens to act against this issue. Authorities ought to incorporate sleep health into primary healthcare services and public wellness programs."

Individuals ought to regard sleep as essential as nutrition. Better sleep leads to greater happiness and health among individuals, thereby enhancing their contributions to economic advancement. A society thrives when its constituents are adequately rested.

Sleeping is a behavior that can be altered, suggesting individuals have the potential to enhance their sleep patterns. Implementing sleep interventions could positively impact whole communities, resulting in a more vibrant and healthy societal structure.

Olanrewaju suggested that emphasizing sleep health might serve as a cost-efficient approach to enhancing overall national well-being and boosting economic performance, particularly as societies face an increase in non-communicable disorders.

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