USA: ASBN celebrates Cameroonian Neurosurgeon Dr Esene Ignatius
This is another milestone in the professional career of Cameroonian-born Neurosurgeon, Dr. Esene Ignatius.
The American Society of Black Neurosurgeons ,ASBN, described the senior neurosurgery lecturer at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bamenda, as “Neurosurgeon-Scientist and a public, international, and global health physician.”
In their recent newsletter, the ASBN dedicated several pages to enumerating the wonderful works of the Cameroonian scientist, ranging from his national and international assignments, especially giving honor to Cameroon.
Read details courtesy ASBN
To become a leader in neurosurgery and science, Dr. Esene obtained his Medical Doctorate Degree from Cameroon and was awarded the Academy of Research and Higher Education scholarship to undertake a Master of Public Health in Brussels, Belgium. He then proceeded to Cairo for his residency in Neurosurgery at Ain Shams University. He obtained a Master of Neurosurgery/Neurology and a Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Neurological Surgery under the aegis of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) and auspices of the Cameroonian-Egyptian government cooperation.
Furthermore, Dr. Esene holds Postgraduate Certificates in Health Economics, International Health, Advanced Research Methods, Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, and Skull Base and Neuro-Vascular Surgery. After his education, Dr. Esene returned home to make a positive impact in his home. He accomplished this by establishing the first neurosurgical care unit in the northern part of Cameroon to improve on patient care by performing surgeries, including congenital malformations, complex brain tumors, and spine pathologies. He has improved neurological care throughout Africa by working on humanitarian trips and has greatly influenced neuro-research and education globally, renowned for his innovative works in metascience.
As a leader in the field, Dr. Esene holds leadership positions globally: current Secretary General of the Cameroon Neurosurgery Society; past Secretary General of the Continental Association of African Neurosurgical Societies (CAANS), past Chair of the World Federation of Neurosurgical. Societies’ Young Neurosurgeons Forum, and is the Founder/CEO of Winners Foundation, a global organization focused on education, training, research, and neurosurgical care.
In addition to surgery and leadership, Dr. Esene is a prominent researcher, seen through his H-Index of 22 and authorship of over 180 scientific publications. Additionally, he developed the scientific proof of the diagnostic power of the Medial Hamstring Reflex in spine pathologies and popularized its use amongst neuroscientists. As a proponent of evidence-based neurosurgery, his team published the first paper with an algorithm edifying research methods in neurosurgery. Collaborating with the Cambridge team, Dr. Esene and his team published the first research article outlining qualitative methods in neurosurgery. He is credited for developing the scientific proof for sample sizes for case reports and case series in neurosurgery, a significant advancement in the field of metascience/meta-research.
His pioneering spirit in neurosurgical studies has led to him presenting his research at more than 100 international conferences, including grand rounds and visiting lectures at major institutions like Oxford, Harvard, Duke, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Dr. Esene is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders through his roles as a mentor and teacher. He is actively involved in neurosurgical education, mentoring prospective neurosurgeons and guiding them in their academic and professional pursuits. His dedication to neurosurgery education and research capacity building has made a significant impact, inspiring and empowering students and young neurosurgeons to excel in their fields. Young neurosurgeons have been one of the main foci of Dr. Esene’s activities as a mentor and leader. His leadership and mentorship has inspired and motivated them to pursue their dreams and create an impact.
Screenshot from the ASBN Newsletter on the impact of Dr. Esene Ignatius around the globe.
Honor to Cameroon
The ASBN also highlights Cameroon, listing its beauty and Irish heritage, from where the scientist was born, urging readers to visit Cameroon.
“Cameroon, often called “Africa in miniature,” is a Central African nation known for its diverse geography, ranging from coastal plains to mountainous regions like Mount Cameroon, an active volcano. Historically, it was a German colony before becoming a French and British mandate, gaining independence in 1960–1961. The country boasts rich cultural heritage, with attractions like Waza National Park, Limbe Botanical Gardens, and the historic Foumban Palace. Healthcare access remains challenging, especially in rural areas, with neurological and neurosurgical care being limited but growing. Efforts to expand neurosurgery training and improve health infrastructure are ongoing, though financial barriers persist.
Cameroon boasts breathtaking landscapes, from volcanic mountains to pristine beaches, alongside rich cultural diversity and vibrant wildlife. Whether exploring Mount Cameroon, relaxing on Kribi’s stunning shores, or immersing yourself in local traditions, the country offers an unforgettable and authentic African experience. Moreover its rich cultures boast over 250 ethnic groups, each contributing beautiful and unique languages, food, and cultural dances, such as the traditional dance from Guider-Cameroon, seen below with Dr. Esene (center).”
