To promote natural healing, reduce dependence on chemical-based treatments and advance holistic medicine in Nigeria, The Art of Living Centre Nigeria, also known as Lekki Ashram, has inaugurated a new Ayurveda centre in Lagos as part of an integrated approach to health and wellness.

The initiative aims to complement conventional medicine, environmental sustainability and encourage healthier lifestyles through alternative therapeutic practices.

At the centre’s grand opening ceremony held in Lekki, the organisation’s Global Head of Mission, Mr. Iyke Ohaegbu, said the centre would serve as a hub for wellness activities such as meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises designed to relieve stress and enhance mental well-being.

Ohaegbu explained that Ayurveda is a system of medicine centred on maintaining balance between the mind, body, and spirit.

He added that the centre’s services, ranging from yoga and therapy sessions to holistic wellness programmes, are designed to help Nigerians achieve a more balanced and healthier lifestyle.

According to him, The Art of Living Center Nigeria is driven by a dual mission of advancing health and environmental sustainability. He emphasised the group’s commitment to building partnerships that enhance healthcare delivery while reducing the chemical footprint contributing to environmental degradation and climate change.

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Julie Ann Van Vleke, a member of the organisation’s Board of Trustees, described the opening of the centre as a courageous and timely initiative, particularly as Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and increasing health demands.

She disclosed that the group was advocating for the introduction of a Bachelor of Ayurveda degree in Nigerian universities — equivalent to the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) to formally integrate holistic medicine into the nation’s medical education system.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Habeeb Sanni called for stronger collaboration between government institutions and stakeholders to support the development and regulation of traditional and alternative medicine.

“We are engaging with the Federal Government, the Ministry of Education, and the National Assembly to ensure legal backing for the monitoring and growth of traditional medical systems,” he stated.

Sanni commended the organisation’s efforts, noting that the launch marked a significant milestone in the ongoing drive to blend ancient healing wisdom with modern healthcare delivery in Nigeria.