Geospatial Analysis of Traditional Medicine Utilization in Post Covid-19 Nigeria: Patterns, Determinants, and Policy Implications

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered healthcare-seeking behaviour across the globe, leading to renewed reliance on traditional medicine, particularly in developing countries where access to conventional healthcare was disrupted. In Nigeria, traditional medicine became an important complementary healthcare option because of its affordability, accessibility, cultural acceptance, and perceived therapeutic effectiveness. Despite its widespread use, there is limited empirical evidence on the spatial distribution, determinants, and policy implications of traditional medicine utilization in the post-pandemic period. This study examined the spatial patterns of traditional medicine utilization across Nigeria and identified the socio-economic, cultural, and healthcare-related factors influencing its continued use after the COVID-19 pandemic. A mixedmethods research design was adopted, combining questionnaire surveys, key informant interviews, and geospatial analysis. Data were obtained from 382 respondents selected through a multistage sampling technique across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques were employed to analyse the data, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative information. The findings revealed marked regional disparities in traditional medicine utilization, with significantly higher patronage in the North-Central, South-West, and South-East regions than in highly urbanised areas. Accessibility, affordability, cultural beliefs, and reduced confidence in conventional healthcare services during the pandemic were identified as the major determinants of utilization. Although respondents generally perceived traditional medicine as effective, concerns regarding safety, dosage standardisation, and regulatory oversight remained prevalent. The study concludes that traditional medicine continues to play a complementary role in Nigeria's healthcare system and recommends stronger regulatory frameworks, scientific validation of indigenous therapies, improved public awareness, and greater integration of traditional medicine into national healthcare planning. These measures would enhance healthcare accessibility while ensuring patient safety and strengthening health system resilience against future public health emergencies