Health

Tinubu Approves Upgrade of LUTH, ABUTH, 14 Others

By Web News 658

President Bola Tinubu has approved the immediate upgrade of 16 health institutions across all six geo-political zones in the country.

The president directed that the infrastructure and equipment of the institutions should be immediately upgraded.

The institutions include the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Surulere and the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria.

Among them are six teaching hospitals marked for the establishment of oncology and nuclear medicine centres per facility all to be delivered within 12 – 18 months.

The modernisations are “in line with his administration’s vision of overhauling the health and social welfare sector…to ensure that world-class cancer diagnosis and care is accessible…to all Nigerians,” said the Presidency in a statement signed by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.

The statement is titled, ‘President Tinubu approves immediate upgrade of key health infrastructure across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.’

Aside from LUTH and ABUTH, the four other teaching hospitals are the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo State, University of Nigeria (Nsukka) Teaching Hospital, Enugu State, Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, University of Jos Teaching Hospital, Plateau State.

Tinubu also approved critical health care service expansion projects across the fields of radiology, clinical pathology, medical and radiation oncology and cardiac catheterisation in 10 hospitals across all geo-political zones.

They are Reference Hospital, Kaduna (North-West) — (Radiology, clinical pathology, medical and radiation oncology), Medical Diagnostic Centre Complex, Enugu (South-East) — Radiology, clinical pathology, medical & radiation oncology), Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto (North-West) — Diagnostic and intervention radiology, clinical pathology, and cardiac catheterisation, University College Hospital, Ibadan (South-West) — Diagnostic and intervention radiology, clinical pathology, and cardiac catheterization and University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (South-South) — Radiology and clinical pathology.

Others are Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi (North-East) — Radiology and clinical pathology, Federal Medical Centre, Asaba (South-South) — Radiology and clinical pathology, Harmony Advanced Diagnostic Centre Complex, Ilorin (North-Central) — Radiology and clinical pathology, Jos University Teaching Hospital (North-Central) — Radiology and clinical pathology and Federal Medical Centre, Nguru (North-East) — Radiology and clinical pathology.

Ngelale said the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority will carry out the comprehensive upgrade of the cancer-treatment infrastructure and other critical developments, in addition to the full renovation and expansion of prior investments to improve broad-based access to high-quality healthcare nationwide.

“These critical projects, set to be delivered within 12-18 months, will improve screening and diagnostics for communicable and non-communicable diseases; reduce mortality rates and improve outcomes for non-communicable diseases,” he added.

They are also expected to create considerable employment opportunities for clinical, administrative, and managerial personnel across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, all while building the capacity of clinical personnel in advanced procedures, diagnostics, and treatment modalities, in accordance with the administration’s eight priority areas.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Health

Oyo Closes Health Facilities over Quackery 

By Web News 430

By Morenike Tony-Esan

The Oyo State Government has shut six health facilities across the state over quackery.

The six health facilities sealed committed various offences, including recruitment of unqualified personnel to provide medical services and engage in illicit practices.

Speaking during an inspection and monitoring exercise held within the Ibadan metropolis, the State Antiquackery Task Force Committee Chairman, Dr. Adekunle Aremu said the team carried out the operation as part of the government’s efforts towards protecting the health and well-being of residents.

Dr. Aremu said the Oyo State government would not tolerate any form of quackery or substandard practice in the health sector.

He added that anyone found culpable would face the full wrath of the law.

He urged the public to report any suspicious or illegal activity in any health facility to the Ministry of Health or the nearest security agency.

He also advised the public to patronize only accredited and registered health facilities in the state, adding that they must ensure only qualified personnel attend to them.

He appealed to health workers to abide by the ethics and standards of their profession.

The Chairman also urged residents to cooperate with the government in its quest to provide quality and affordable healthcare

Among the facilities sealed were the New Jobi Memorial Hospital, Omolara Clinic & Maternity Home Iped Amazing Grace Medical Clinic, Emiloju Clinic and Maternity Centre Ogbere and Safeway Clinic, Gbaremu, Emilagba Clinic and Maternity Centre, Ibadan.

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Health

Food, Beverage Industry Call for Reversal on Ban of Alcoholic Drinks

By Web News 429

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Workers’ bodies in the Food and Beverage Industry have petitioned the Ogun State House of Assembly, calling for the reversal of the ban on sachet and PET bottles of alcoholic drinks by the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administrators and Control, NAFDAC. 

The bodies, affiliated to the Trade Union Congress, TUC, presented their petition to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Oludaisi Elemide through the State Chairman of the Congress, Comrade Akeem Lasisi who led them on a protest to the Assembly Complex. 

Comrade Lasisi warned that the pronouncement of NAFDAC would result in massive loss of jobs and shutdown of subsidiary industries and urged the State lawmakers to look into the matter with a view to protecting the source of living of the workforce, which could be affected by the ban.

Responding, the Speaker, Mr Elemide gave the assurance that the State Legislature would consider the plea of the Union and channel the request to the appropriate authorities for further actions.

The Speaker explained that the consideration of the union’s position for a reversal of policy was within the purview of the Federal Government, adding that avoidable situations should not be allowed to worsen the present situation of the country’s economy.

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Health

First Lady Urges State Govts to Fight Substance Abuse

By Web News 407

By Yosi Ardel (Abuja)

The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged state governments to prioritize the fight against substance abuse in their strategic work plans for a safe and secure society.

Mrs Tinubu stated this at the opening ceremony of a two-day drug prevention, treatment, and care training organized by the NDLEA for the spouses of state governors in Abuja.

Mrs Tinubu, who was represented by the wife of the Inspector General of Police, Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun commended the NDLEA and the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum for their initiative, calling on state governments to collectively combat the menace of drug abuse.

On his part, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, described the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum as a valuable platform to extend the drug war to the grassroots.

Retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa, the NDLEA Chairman, emphasized the need for collective efforts to tackle the menace of drug abuse due to the negative effects on public health, the environment, and the prevailing insecurity across the country.

He urged the governors’ wives to leverage their positions to mobilize support for drug prevention and treatment in their respective states.

Prof Tahir Mamman, the Minister of Education, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Didi Walson-Jack, reiterated the Ministry of Education and NDLEA collaboration to combat substance abuse among students.

The Chairman of the Governor’s Spouses Forum and wife of the Governor of Kwara State, Olufokake Abdulrazaq, assured collaboration with relevant stakeholders to spearhead the fight against harmful substances, especially among the youth.

Dr Oliver Stolpe, Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime; Letizia Torretta, Representative of the European Union; and Dr Gambo Aliyu, Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), all emphasized the need for collective and collaborative efforts to curb the menace of drug abuse.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Nurses Kick against New Certificate Verification Guidelines

By Web News 467

Nurses from both public and private hospitals in Lagos State on Monday protested against the new guidelines for verification of certificates.
The nurses under the aegis of Naija Nurses Forum expressed displeasure over what they described as oppression, urging the Federal Government to reopen the verification portal without conditions.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria issued a memo dated February 7, 2024, revising the guidelines for verification of certificates by nurses and midwives.
The NMCN in the memo said eligible applicants must have a minimum of two years post-qualification experience from the date of issuance of the permanent practicing licence.
The memo was addressed to all state ministries of Health, university teaching hospitals, specialist and federal medical centres, NANNM headquarters, universities offering nursing programmes, colleges of nursing sciences, schools of nursing and midwifery, all post-basic nursing programmes, and all nursing and midwifery councils’ zonal offices.
The aggrieved nurses, however, kicked against the new verification guidelines, asking the council to reverse the new guidelines within 48 hours.
The protest monitored by newsmen was carried out on Lagos streets from Harvey Road to UNILAG Road, to Neuropsychiatrist Hospital, Yaba.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Health

Oyebanji Preaches Dangers of FGM

By Web News 441

By Busuyi Ogidiolu

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji wants religious organizations and marriage registrars to caution intending couples against Female Genital Mutilation, FGM.

The Governor’s wife stated this in Ado Ekiti at the commemoration of this year’s International Day of Zero Tolerance For Female Genital Mutilation.

Dr Oyebanji noted that the warning became necessary because those being mutilated in the name of circumcision were prone to be infected with various diseases through contamination.

“If you check UNICEF data, Ekiti is one of the top four states where Female Genital Mutilation is on rife. If such cases are brought to you and you reject it, they will not have a choice than to go back home” she said. 

The Governor’s wife who passionately appealed to parents not to abuse the right of girls through FGM, expressed the hope that after this year’s celebration, the numbers of those engaging in the unwholesome practice would have drastically reduced.

She urged all stakeholders including, Marriage Registrars, Religious organizations, Traditional birth attendants, and health personnel to give due attention to the stoppage of female Genital Mutilation.

“I reiterate that the fight against Female Genital Mutilation necessites the cooperation of all so that the collective efforts to create a world free of the scourge could be achieved” Dr Oyebanji added.

In their Goodwill messages, the commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Peju Babafemi said the theme of this year’s celebration “Her Voice Her Future: Investing in Survivor’s-Led Movement to End Female Genital Mutilation” and one-day training organised for stakeholders would create a forum to strengthen the bond of fighting the harmful practice.

In their contributions, the Chairperson Ekiti State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs who doubles as Deputy Speaker, Mrs Bolaji Olagbaju and the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani sought the collaboration of all stakeholders to end the menace

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Health

Oyo Assembly Calls for Ban of Styrofoam

By Web News 443

By Mosoe Kehinde 

Oyo State House of Assembly has urged the state government to ban the use of Styrofoam for food purposes in the state.

The appeal followed a motion on the need to ban the usage of Styrofoams for food service, storage and other related usage in Oyo State Co-sponsored by the Majority Leader of the House, Mr Sanjo Adedoyin and Mr Gabriel Babajide.

The motion, which sought synergy among the Ministries of Health, Environment and Natural as well as the State Executive Council for the total ban of styrofoam in the State was aimed at preventing its harmful effects on humans and the environment

According to Mr Babajide, who presented the motion, research has revealed that, it takes hundreds of years before styrofoam degrade in the soil and as such becomes dangerous for the environment

“Further aware that the use of styrofoam is common in Africa, and Nigeria, due to its population and availability of market, takes the lead in the usage of this harmful container in, the continent. Mr. Speaker, the presence of styrofoam in our marketplaces, restaurants, streets, and even in dränage systems is visible to the blind.

“Observe that just three (3) weeks ago the Lagos State Government banned the total use of single-use plastic known as styrofoam. The Government of Abia State has also ordered the same ban on styrofoam. These are proactive measures to phase out the total use of the deadly substance. It is, however, very important as a matter of utmost urgency, to stop the use of styrofoam in Oyo State, as it is hazardous to both the environment and human beings.

“Further observes that a number of states and cities in America have banned single-use plastic items, like styrofoam, in an effort to cut down on waste and encourage the use of biodegradable or reusable items. As its ban took effect on May 4, 2022, styrofoam is banned in Colorado, Maine, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C. and New Jersey was the most recent to be implemented, Colorado, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington have styrofoam bans that are not yet in effect.

Reacting, lawmaker representing Ibadan Northeast 1, Mr Abiodun Babalola who further highlighted the implications of the use of Styrofoams to both human and aquatic said there was a need for the government to take urgent steps on the matter.

In a resolution, the Speaker of the House, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin asked the Ministry of Information and Orientation as well as other information dissemination organs of Government to organize enlightenment programs to sensitize the public on the danger of using styrofoam.

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Health

Survivors of FGM should always speak out against it – Professor Ojengbede

By Web News 405

By Olumide Ogunbiyi

Survivors of female genital mutilation, FGM, should always speak out to discourage others from engaging the harmful practice.

Director, Centre for Comprehensive Promotion of Reproductive Health, CCPRH, Professor Oladosu Ojengbede, gave the charge at this year’s celebration of International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, FGM, with the theme, “Her Voice, Her Future: Investing In FGM Survivor-Led Movement to End FGM”, held at Jericho Nursing Home, Jericho, Ibadan.

Professor Ojengbede said survivors voicing out against FGM, would strengthen the resolve and dedication of people to supporting the movement for zero tolerance for female genital mutilation.

Also speaking, the Southwest coordinator of United Nation Population Fund, UNFPA who is also the FGM analyst of the organisation, Mrs Uzoma Ayodeji maintained that every survivor’s voice is a call to action, and every choice they made in reclaiming their lives contribute to the movement to end the harmful practice of FGM.

Mrs Ayodeji further revealed that over four million girls would be at risk of FGM if efforts are not intensified to end the practice.

She commended stakeholders for their support for women and girls battling with FGM.

In a remark, the Chief Medical Director, CMD, of Jericho Nursing Home, Dr. Bashil Kasika said that he was glad that the event is coming up at the nursing home noting that the facility boasts of a sexual assault referral centre where they care for victims of sexual assault.

In goodwill messages by various stakeholder organisations at the event, they commended UNFPA and CCPRH for their steadfastness in working to end the dangerous practise.

The event was attended by officials from the Oyo State Ministry of Justice, Oyo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Health, Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, media and FGM survivors.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Health

Patients Stranded as Sacked OAUTHC Workers Shut Down Hospital

By Web News 412

By Funmi Ojo

Hundreds of workers laid off by the management of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, OAUTHC, stormed the hospital on Thursday morning in protest of their sack.

Report indicates that no fewer than 1,500 employees of the hospital were asked to desist from coming to work.

The management of the Federal Government-owned hospital had employed the workers in 2022 but following discovery by the Federal Government that the management and some workers were involved in job racketeering, the workers were fired.

Angered by the development, the affected workers besieged the hospital gates on Thursday morning, chanting songs to drive home their dissatisfaction, asking the management to rescind their decision.

Immediately the protesters arrived at the main gate, it was shut and workers resuming were disallowed to gain entry.

The demonstration has affected patients as the protesters were determined to frustrate activities in and around the complex if nothing was done to assuage them.

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Health

Neglected Tropical Diseases: Don’t hide from getting treatment – Oyo State Health Commissioner

By Web News 806

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi says Neglected Tropical Diseases, NTDs can be managed urging persons infectected with the diseases to access treatment rather than hiding it. 

She stated this while briefing journalists on the 2024 World NTDs Day held at the ministry’s conference room Secretariat, Ibadan.

NTDs largely found in Tropical areas of the world include leprosy, guinea worm, elephantiasis, rabies, and Dengue fever. 

Dr Ajetunmobi who Identified the major challeges facing the state in tacklinig the NTDs to include Ignorance and attitudinal problem in reporting the disease said government would intensify awareness on Neglected Tropical Diseases

The Commissioner who noted that, NTDs diseases if left untreated could result into disability or stigmatization, enjoined stakeholders to synergise towards eradicating it.

Executive Secretary of Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Babatunde Olatunji, said that, 142 cases of Lymphatic Filariasis, also known as Elephantiasis were recorded in the state in the last one year explaining that the affected persons had been treated.

He added that, 10 surgical interventions had been carried out while no fewer than 1.6 million school children had been vaccinated to prevent cases of neglected tropical diseases in the state.

The diseases according to him are Soil Transmitted Helminths, Schistosomiasis, Lymphatic filariasis and Onchocerciasis.

He said, “They are called neglected tropical diseases because only few people pay attention to them. They are not caused by witches, they can be managed.

“We have recorded 142 cases of Lymphatic filariasis also known as Elephantiasis, 9 cases of Onchocerciasis, we have done 10 surgical intervention. Mass drug have been provided for 1.6 million school across the state.

“According to a survey conducted by FMOH, four of these NTDs are endemic in the state – Soil Transmitted Helminths, Schistosomiasis, Lymphatic filariasis and Onchocerciasis.

“The diseases are distributed across the state as follows: 28 LGAs are Oncho endemic, 10 are FL endemic, 30 are SCH endemic and 33 are STH endemic. These NTDs are treated with safe and effective drugs that are distributed once each year.”

The theme of this year’s event is “Unite to Act Towards Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases” .

Health

NPC Commences Health Survey in Ogun

By Web News 574

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The 2023-24 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, NDHS, has commenced in Ogun State with a call on the people to embrace the initiative as an instrument of transformation that would help to reduce health disparities and enable every Nigerian to thrive.

The Chairman, National Population Commission, NPC, Mr Nasir Kwarra made the call through the Acting State Director of the Commission, Mr Ayinla Folami at a News Conference in Abeokuta. 

He said the National Population Commission, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and other partners, had concluded arrangements for a successful survey as the basis for the formulation, implementation and evaluation of intervention programmes in the health and social sectors. 

The NPC Chairman explained that 46 Clusters, comprising 45 households each, across 18 Local Government Areas of the state would be visited by trained data collectors to interview the selected participants with the aim of gathering high-quality data on a wide range of vital indicators. 

Mr Kwarra pointed out that the Interviewers would ask questions on fertility awareness, use of family planning methods, child immunization routine, maternal and child health, awareness and behaviour regarding HIV and Aids and Hepatitis B and C. 

He listed other indicators as the information on Sexually Transmitted Infections, Tuberculosis, Disability and other health-related issues such as smoking and drinking of alcohol.

The NPC Chairman announced that the survey, which started on the 1st of December last year would lapse by April this year.

In a remark, the NPC Southwest Zonal Coordinator, Mr Rotimi Ilelaboye said the outcome of the survey, being conducted in all states in the Southwest region would help the government to develop policies that would have tremendous impacts on the health of Nigerians.

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Health

Burning Animal with Fuel Causes Cancer says Expert

By Web News 493

By Lanre Omotoso

Measures should be put in place to curb butchers from burning animal hair with kerosene and fuel because of its health implications.

A lecturer in the Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Dr. Anthony Ekeocha gave the advice while speaking with Radio Nigeria in reaction to how beef often smell kerosene in Ekiti State.

Dr. Ekeocha said the residue of the kerosene which is often felt while consuming beef in the State may over time lead to terminal diseases, such as cancer.

He stressed that continuous consumption of kerosene induced-animal may over time damage the internal organs of consumers such as the liver, kidney and heart.

The Don however advised butchers in the State to desist from burning animal skin with kerosene, but rather use hot water to remove hair from the cows.

Because of the health implications associated with kerosene burning, the animal scientist suggested that skinny could be done by pumping the cow, pouring hot water on it and removing the hair with either a sharp knife or razor blade.

While condemning the act of burning animal hair with kerosene which butchers claimed to be faster, the lecturer stressed that it is better to prevent sickness rather than nursing it, because health is wealth.

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Health

What Pineapple Skin Can Do for You

By Web News 1168

By Nifemi Owolabi

Pineapple, a tangy cousin of all fruits, which goes by the botanical name Ananas comosus, is an herbaceous, tropical, and monocot perennial plant. The size of the plant ranges from approximately 1–2 m tall and wide. Its leaves are spiral in arrangement and on the terminal ends are flowers that produce edible fruit. The fruit has a tough exterior, while being tasty inside, tad pulpy and crunchy.

But while the fruit is hailed and eaten almost everywhere, not many people know about the benefits of its peel. Here, we discuss some of these health benefits and how to incorporate them into your diet.

From lowering diabetes risk to boosting metabolism, the skin has bromelain, which is a powerful enzyme, and anti-inflammatory. It can be used to reduce swelling post-surgery or an injury.

 It is also believed to help with digestion. It is said the peels can fight intestinal parasites and help with constipation.

If you are looking to boost immunity, you must consider the pineapple peel. Just like the fruit, the skin is rich in vitamin C, which can build the overall immunity of the body, fight bacteria, help with cough, etc.

The skin can also be a teeth and bone strengthener since it is rich in manganese. It is great for oral health, because the vitamin C can keep the gums healthy. Enzyme bromelain can prevent the clotting of blood, too.

In fact, it can even make the blood healthier by helping with the formation of more red blood cells. Women, who are looking to conceive, can consider it, too. As a fruit, pineapple is liked by everyone because it has beta-carotene and bromelain, which can reduce any inflammation in the womb and create an ideal environment for growth.

Here are some ways you can prepare the skin. Remove the skin and place it in a saucepan. You can also add cloves, ginger and cinnamon sticks, sobo flavour. Add some water and allow it to brew for some 15 minutes on low flame. Turn it off and let it steep for another 15 minutes. You can serve it either hot or cold, and can also add a sweetener of your choice.

Culled

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Health

NPC Commences 2023-2024 Health Survey in Delta State

By Web News 537

By Oghenero Eghweree

The National Population Commission, NPC, says the agency has commenced the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey in Delta State, to develop strategies aimed at improving the health of residents.

The Federal Commissioner representing Delta State in the NPC Mrs Blessing Brume-Ataguba, disclosed this in Asaba, at a press briefing on the inauguration of the scheme in the state.

Mrs Brume-Ataguba, represented by the State Director of the National Population Commission, Mr Patrick Lotobi, said the NDHS survey was aimed at deriving data that would enable evidenced-based planning and resource allocation.

The State Coordinator of the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, Mr Jeffery Igbeniaduwa, noted that twenty-two out of the twenty-five local government areas in the state have been selected for the survey, with forty cluster areas.

He urged residents to cooperate with the NPC enumerators and provide appropriate data to ensure accurate statistics are derived from the survey.

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Health

NCDC Alerts on Risk of Cerebrospinal Meningitis

By Web News 492

By Annabel Nwachukwu

Due to the prevailing weather conditions in the country, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has released a public health advisory concerning cerebrospinal meningitis.

Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) is an acute inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

This disease becomes epidemic under certain circumstances, such as the dry season marked by dust, winds, cold nights, and a higher frequency of upper respiratory tract infections. These environmental factors, coupled with crowding and inadequate ventilation, increase the risk of infection.

In a statement on Thursday, Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, the Director General of the NCDC, said that in 2022-2023, Nigeria recorded 2765 suspected and 303 confirmed cases, with 190 deaths across 140 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 30 states, including the Federal Capital Territory.

‘’The highest burden of CSM in Nigeria occurs in the “Meningitis Belt,” which includes all 19 states in the Northern Region, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and some southern states such as Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Ekiti, Ogun, Ondo and Osun,” the statement read.

Dr. Adetifa said the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and the Agency are actively engaged in efforts to prevent, detect, and respond to cases of CSM.

He pointed out that despite substantial progress in surveillance, diagnostic capabilities, and vaccination in recent years, CSM remains a prioritized disease and a significant public health threat.

In addressing the threat of cerebrospinal meningitis, the Director General of NCDC said the agency, in collaboration with ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) and partners, had implemented several measures.

These include alerting all state governments and public health authorities about the heightened risk of a CSM outbreak and emphasizing the need for resource mobilization for preparedness and response activities.

Other measures involve regular communication with states experiencing a high burden of CSM to assess their status, progress, and challenges; ongoing surveillance in all states through routine integrated disease surveillance and response (IDSR) and event-based surveillance (EBS); and awareness campaigns to educate the public on CSM prevention measures and recognize the signs and symptoms of the disease.

About Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM)

The health advisory explained that meningitis could be triggered by bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, injuries, and certain drugs.

The transmission of meningitis typically occurs through person-to-person contact, including droplets from the nose and throat of infected individuals.

Symptoms of cerebrospinal meningitis include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, photophobia (pain when exposed to bright lights), neck stiffness, and altered levels of consciousness.

While meningitis can affect individuals of all ages, those most at risk include young children, especially those who are either under-immunized or not immunized at all.

Other vulnerable groups comprise individuals living in overcrowded households, smokers, those exposed to poor ventilation and indoor air pollution, and individuals with poor hygienic practices.

Health Advice to the Public

The NCDC therefore advised the public to receive the appropriate vaccinations necessary for protection against meningitis.

Also, individuals should avoid close and prolonged contact with a confirmed case of CSM, including relatives, overcrowding in households and refraining from smoking.

Practising proper respiratory hygiene when coughing or sneezing, avoiding self-medication to prevent antimicrobial resistance, and ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment when necessary are other preventive measures.

Advice to Healthcare Workers

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention also cautioned healthcare workers to always adhere to standard infection prevention and control practices, maintain a high index of suspicion for cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM), and promptly report all suspected cases to their local government Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer for immediate access to healthcare.

The agency emphasised that early identification and treatment of cases are more effective and could potentially save lives.

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Health

NANNM Protests Exclusion from FMC Abeokuta Promotion Exercise

By Web News 406

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Nurses at the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Idi Aba, Abeokuta have protested against an alleged exclusion from the 2023 promotion exercise carried out in the institution.

The aggrieved workers under the aegis of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, NANNM, protested within the hospital premises with different placards with inscriptions including, “Nurses workload is enough for promotion”, “Stop Selective Promotion” among others.

The nurses also expressed displeasure over what they described as harsh working conditions, asking the management of the hospital to address their promotion arrears, shortage of staff and other rights.

The NANNM Chairman, FMC, Abeokuta Chapter, Comrade Olufunmilayo Adekunle said the protest was to demand for the papers of the promotional examination.

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Health

NAFDAC Begins Downward Review of Processing Fees for MSMEs

By Web News 517

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has rolled out strategies to help Micro Small and Medium Enterprises survive the temporary economic fallouts occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal.

The Director-General of the agency, Mojisola Adeyeye, made this known in a statement issued to newsmen on Monday in Abuja by NAFDAC media consultant, Olusayo Akintola.

Adeyeye said the new set of strategies was targeted to help MSMEs survive the economic situation from the fuel subsidy removal and to enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

She added that the agency had reviewed downward, the present administrative charges for late renewal of NAFDAC-regulated products to make the business environment more investment-friendly in a quick response to the realities of the time.

“This translates to a 65 percent decrease in processing fees for the renewal of registration for locally manufactured products (which will be N44,200),” she said.

This is against what is currently charged and 45 percent of the processing fee for foreign products (which will be $ 450) as against what is currently charged.

She noted, “In addition, the agency has also granted a 10 percent review of tariff structure for facility and inspection fees for Special Economic Zones as businesses across the world confront the disruptions caused by the global economic meltdown.

“NAFDAC will continue to adopt and implement practical measures to ensure that the projected growth in the MSMEs sector is not seriously affected by the development.”

She explained that the response of the agency was not just “to give succour and assistance to existing MSMEs, but also ensure that there is a practical and active fillip to new MSMEs.

This, the NAFDAC boss said will ensure that the growth of the sector is not discouraged by the current economic trauma.

She said it was the right moment for the agency and that NAFDAC, as a regulatory body, was prepared to back MSMEs and other businesses that were ready for the innovative and interesting times ahead.

“We have no excuse not to be one of the most productive and prolific economies in the world. We hope to achieve this aim in the incredible numbers of MSMEs that we have,” she stated.

She described NAFDAC palliatives for MSMEs as a thoughtful and strategic response to the realities of the present time, adding that those were indicators of the new spirit of NAFDAC and foretaste of the support for MSMEs in the trying times.

“This is not a new undertaking for the agency; it is merely an extension or intensification of the Federal Government’s long-standing commitment to MSMEs,” she noted.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Osun Welcomes First Baby of 2024

By Web News 572

By Funmi Ojo

The Wife of Osun State Governor, Yeye Titilola Adeleke has warned against female genital mutilation just as she advised parents to take proper care of their children in the interest of their future.

Yeye Adeleke gave the warning while presenting cash and other gifts to the Osun first baby of the year.

The baby girl weighing 3.2kg was born at the State Hospital, Asubiaro, Osogbo at exactly one minute past twelve in the morning.

Presenting the cash and gifts items comprising baby things and a bag of rice to the parents of the baby, Mr. and Mrs. Adewumi, the Osun Governor’s wife urged the mother to embrace exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months before introducing the baby to other foods for healthy growth and sharp brain.

Yeye Adeleke who named the year 2024 first baby, Bodunrin, thanked God for the safe delivery of the baby girl and prayed for divine protection and provision for the parents of the baby to enable them cater for their child.

Responding, the father of the baby, Mr. Adewale Adewumi, appreciated the State Government humanitarian gesture and the Governor’s Wife and prayed to God to grant the present Administration a resounding success in office.

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Health

Make Traditional Medicine Practice Beneficial, NOA Tells Stakeholders

By Web News 481

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Those involved in traditional medicine have been encouraged to promote environmental renewal by growing plants and rearing animals that will be useful in enhancing the traditional ways of addressing economic and health challenges in the country.

The Director General, the National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mr Lanre-Issa-Onilu made the submission in Abeokuta, Ogun State while flagging off the campaign for Mass Participation in Biodiversity Conservation and Traditional Knowledge Development. 

The initiative, put together in partnership with the African Biodiversity and Traditional Knowledge Research and Development Project was aimed at facilitating the mass cultivation of medicinal and economic plants, including timbers, coconut and Alligator pepper and others for the use of traditional medicine practitioners.

Mr Issa-Onilu, who was represented by the Ogun State Director of the NOA, Mr Kolawole Obadina said the move would help in protecting the environment from activities capable of damaging the natural habitat which according to him, had brought negative consequences on the ecosystem.

In a keynote address, the President of the African Biodiversity and Traditional Knowledge Research and Development Project, Alhaji Shuaibu Aro said the campaign would be extended to all parts of the state, particularly rural communities while pledging the introduction of capacity-building programmes for stakeholders on the need to conserve and preserve nature’s gift.

Alhaji Aro explained that arrangements had been concluded to enrol 5,000 applicants for the Project in different developmental areas with 4,000 of them focusing on farming the necessary plants as raw materials for traditional medicine. 

The Director of Biomedicinal Research Centre, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan, Oyo State, Dr Ibraheem Lawal expressed optimism that the development of traditional medicine would help to reduce the nation’s reliance on orthodox medicines and allied products and preservation of the product would assist in standardizing operations in the sector. 

In the lecture entitled, “Utilizing Biodiversity Conservation and the Development of Traditional Medicine for Massive Self-sustainable Employment Opportunities and National Economic Development” Dr Lawal appealed to government at all levels to scale up efforts in preserving natural resources to boost employment opportunities and promote economic sustainability.

Earlier, the National Coordinator of the Project, Mr Taoreed Adefolakan had maintained that all hands must be on deck in charting the path of generational rebirth in African biodiversity and traditional knowledge.

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Health

Ogun Health Ministry, Hospital Board Defend 2024 Budget

By Web News 637

By Omolara Adasofunjo

10 Ambulance points are to be constructed across Ogun State as part of efforts to boost rescue services while the Schools of Nursing and Midwifery will be provided with blocks of hostel rooms and additional classrooms will be constructed for the State Colleges of Nursing to enhance their capacity. 

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker disclosed this while taking her turn to defend the 2024 budget proposal of the Ministry and its allied agencies at the ongoing budget defence before the State House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation. 

Dr Coker told the House Committee, led by Mr Musefiu Lamidi at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta that the Ministry planned to expend more than 11 billion naira with a revenue target of 135.3 million naira in the next fiscal year.

Also, the Permanent Secretary, State Hospital Management Board, Dr.Olayinka Elemide, renewed the board’s commitment to ensuring effective management of all health facilities in the State to promote the people’s well-being and improve the life span of the residents. 

Dr Elemide announced the Board’s proposal to rehabilitate existing Hospitals across the three Senatorial Districts of the State, while expanding community Mental Health Centres and equipping 3 Dental Centres with additional dental laboratories. 

He pointed out that the Board had proposed a budget above 12 billion naira with revenue projection put at 400 million naira.

Health

Paediatric Cardiologist Calls for Modernisation of Medical Services

By Web News 353

By Lilian Ibomor

Modernization of medical services could help in halting the mass exodus of personnel in the nation’s health sector.

A retired paediatric cardiologist, Professor Samuel Omokhodion stated this at the 60th anniversary lecture of the Department of Paediatrics, University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.

Professor Omokhodion in a lecture entitled “Paediatrics in Nigeria (Ibadan) Contemporary Issues and Prospects”, said the current unfriendly situation medical practitioners experience on duty, was discouraging compared to what is obtainable abroad, hence the need for Government to look into their plights.

On her part, the Head of the Paediatrics Department, College of Medicine, the University of Ibadan, Dr Adanze Asinobi, said the department in its first three decades, produced a great number of paediatricians, who trained in Nigeria and West African sub-regions.

“The department has produced excellent paediatricians and clinicians who are making waves and impacting the world”

“The celebration started on Wednesday with an evening of praise and thanksgiving which featured presentations by some alumni.

“Day two featured a community outreach to enlighten the public on common childhood illnesses, preventive strategies and simple interventions available for promoting the health of infants, children and adolescents.

“Staff of the department across several disciplines of healthcare, including nurses, social workers, etc, embarked on visits to underserved communities in the Ibadan metropolis,” she said.

On her part, Provost College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Professor Olayinka Omibodun called for synergy between those working with maternal and child health care and Paediatricians for better productivity.

In separate goodwill messages, Minister of Health, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, Olubadan Oba Dr. Mohood Balogun, Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale and the Chief Medical Director, UCH Ibadan Professor Jesse Otegbayo, who were both represented, commended the Department of Paediatrics for their giant efforts in the health sector in the past 60 years, while calling for more contributions in the years ahead.

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Health

Dementia: Prospects of Better Outcome for Patients

By Web News 501

By Anthonia Akanji

The word Dementia sends shivers down the spine of those who know its debilitating impact while those who do not, see it merely as a disease of the elderly.

Experts say Dementia is a progressive memory loss associated with the elderly but not caused by old age. The condition cannot be cured but can be managed with proper medication and counselling from specialists.

It is common in people over the age of sixty-five but can affect people in their thirties, forties or fifties.

Dementia is manifested in memory loss such as forgetting important dates, and events and remembering only recent ones, inability to carry out simple tasks or becoming more dependent on family members to perform certain tasks they used to handle on their own.

Affected persons also ask the same question over and over again, and suffer reduced concentration, personality or behavioural changes, apathy and withdrawal.

Due to this condition, some of them become difficult, adamant and unsociable making it hectic for family members and caregivers.

In the next 30 years, there will be more people sixty and above residing in Sub-Saharan Africa compared to other parts of the world.

The implications are that there will be a likelihood of some of these people having dementia.

It is because of this that a study that examines the genetics of persons living with dementia in Africa is being carried out.

The project known as READD- ADSP (Recruitment and Retention of Alzheimer’s Disease Diversity Genetic Cohorts/Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project) is the first of its kind in Africa where a genetic study will be carried out to ensure a better outcome for dementia patients.

Community Engagement Coordinator for the project in Africa, Professor Oyedunni Arulogun, who is one of the investigators, explained that the study was to help reduce the stigma associated with dementia and to create more awareness of the fact that patients are not witches, wizards or difficult as presumed.

“They are not difficult people but a condition and that is the only way they can express themselves. When we understand the disease entity we will be able to help them live a more fulfilling life “

The community will be fully involved in the project hence a Community Advisory board consisting of different segments of the society like the media, senior citizens’ groups, representatives of non-governmental organisations and carers of people living with dementia has been set up.

Deputy Chairman, Community Engagement Coordinator, a Neurologist, Dr Temitope Farounbi explained that the project would promote a better understanding of Dementia, the total makeup of people of African ancestry, how they respond to diseases and the treatment that fits them.
“We want to use the opportunity to advocate better care for persons living with dementia and also for their caregivers who are sometimes family members.

To Mrs Victoria Mustapha, caring for a person with dementia is not child’s play as it involves a lot of patience.

“At first it was not easy because I had no understanding of what dementia was but after my mother-in-law was diagnosed with dementia, I gained knowledge from the experts. We started loving and making her comfortable, she started improving, not that the memory was completely restored but the confusion had reduced drastically”

Mrs Mustapha called for a better understanding of people living with dementia and the need to love them in that condition no matter how difficult while at the same time seeking appropriate help for them to live better.

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Health

Radio Nigeria’s Alfred Ajayi Wins Dame Health Reporting Award

By Web News 676

By Alfred Ajayi

Alfred Ajayi of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, has won the award for the Health Reporting Category of the 32nd Diamond Awards for Media Excellence, DAME.

At an event which took place in Lagos on Sunday night, his entry entitled “How Anambra State runs over 630 PHCs with 150 nurses, midwives” was adjudged the best among several entries.

Ajayi who is a Controller News with Radio Nigeria was earlier in November shortlisted as one of the three finalists by a group of 18 erudite judges including academics, journalism administrators, creative consultants and researchers.

His winning entry had earlier won the 2022 Prize for the Professor Chinyere Stella Okunna Ethical Journalism Award in Anambra State in December 2022.

Responding to the DAME honour, Alfred Ajayi appreciated Radio Nigeria for giving him the platform to express himself and explore the media space, promising to keep the flag flying.

“First of all is to give God the glory for this blessing. I am also indebted to Radio Nigeria which provides the platform for this award. It will spur me to work harder towards uplifting the people and uniting the nation”.

Earlier, DAME Trustee, Mr Lanre Idowu, noted that society needs the media for sanity.

Mr Idowu said the annual event which underscores the importance of the media, is also to encourage the culture of appreciating the media for its critical role in society.

“From the several entries this year, we noticed that journalists have great story ideas but most of them lose focus in the course of executing their ideas. That’s why some categories were stepped down and are not awarded tonight.”

“We should pay greater attention to the emergence of AI. There should be collective efforts to sustain standard and quality of the media in Nigeria.”

“There’s a lot to engage all of us who care about standards, the media and the society,” Mr Idowu said.

FRCN was the only radio station with a winning entry while all other awards were won by print and online media outlets.

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Health

Do not Sell your Blood, NBSC Appeals to Nigerians

By Web News 478

By Fasilat Lawal

Nigerians should continue to support blood donation as it is a critical life-saving humanitarian service.

The Acting Zonal Director, Southwest National Blood Service Commission NBSC Ibadan Dr Oladapo Aworanti, a Consultant Hematologist, stated this at the NBSC office, Total Garden Ibadan to mark National Blood Donor Day.

Dr Aworanti explained that the NBSC would like more Nigerians to come forward and donate blood to help those in dire need of it.

While urging those willing to donate to shun any myths or misconceptions about voluntary blood donations, Dr Aworanti explained that the donation process involved thorough testing to ascertain if willing donors are fit to donate to safeguard their health.

“These are the challenges we face if you speak to people to donate blood they would tell you how much blood do I have? which is wrong. We will get you tested before you can donate, and during testing, you will get the advantage of knowing your blood group along with any other relevant information.

The Acting Zonal Director of NBSC Ibadan said this year’s event which is the second edition in the country was meant to create more awareness on blood donation so that NBSC would have more blood at its banks, especially when needed in emergency cases.

 “We are moving towards the end of the year and lots of activities happen towards the end of the year, we don’t want a situation where we won’t be able to save blood.

“You can see what happened in Kaduna’s recent bomb explosions. NBSC supported the victims. If we don’t have blood in our commercial Banks and blood banks, where we keep blood how can we donate and save lives? ”Hence the need to create more awareness“

Speaking on the theme ‘Blood Donation the Real Act of Humanity, Dr Aworanti emphasized that donors are life savers, pointing out that NBSC was working on a modality of appreciating them.

“NBSC is working on a modality that will send a thank you message to appreciate and inform donors that their service to humanity saved a particular age group. I think this would make the  donors to come back and donate.”

The Consultant Hematologist said further that the Commission would soon embark on public school sensitization, appealing to Nigerians not to monetize their blood, but to visit appropriate facilities for voluntary blood donation.

Dr Aworanti added that with the creation of National Blood Donor Day, the statistics of blood donors in the country had slightly increased, and expressed hope that with more sensitization, there would be sufficient units of blood at blood banks.

Also, a Rotarian, Mrs Kemi Akinpelu decried the low rate of blood donation in the country, stressing that sensitizing the public would lead to more donations.

Two donors, Mr Akamu Nurudeen and Mr Oladeji  Olatunji who spoke to Radio Nigeria expressed happiness for donating blood to save lives:
“When I donate blood I don’t feel sick and avoid heart attack “
I look healthy when I donate blood”
National Blood Donor Day was instituted last year by former President Muhammad Buhari to boost blood donation in the country.

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Health

Healthcare of citizens is top agenda – Gov. Adeleke  

By Web News 468

By Mathew/Idowu

Osun State Government has assured the state’s residents that it will stop at nothing to prioritize their health status.

The Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Primary Healthcare,  Dr. Michael Oyerinde gave the assurance today at the inaugurating of Ola Primary Healthcare renovation by the National Association of Nigerian Nurses in North America(NANNNA) in Ola, Ejigbo Local Government of Osun State 

Dr. Michael said the governor had always shown tremendous interest in the health of its residents, and would always do that. He said that good healthcare services would be restored to all the primary healthcare centres that have become moribund in Osun State.

 While commending the effort of Ola residents for working together to renovate the healthcare centre, Dr. Michael explained that Senator Ademola Adeleke would continue to be concerned about their welfare 

In his remarks, the Alase of Ola, Chief Oluwafemi Fasanya pleaded with the state government to pay attention to the poor staffing at the Ola Primary Health Centre.

Speaking via Zoom, a representative of NANNNA in Nigeria Dr. Esther Oshunluyi said the primary aim of facilitating the project was to promote healthcare services at the grassroots level and to engage community leaders in terms of good healthcare delivery.

   Dr.  Esther Oshunluyi further called on the state government and other well-meaning indigenes of Osun State to see good healthcare delivery as a responsibility.

 Speaking with newsmen, the Chairman, Ejigbo West LCDA, Mr.Emmanuel Akinola lauded the efforts of Ola philanthropists in Nigeria and abroad for coming up with the idea of renovating the healthcare centre, noting that Osun State Government would complement the effort by providing necessary drugs for the centre.

The inauguration of the renovated Ola Primary Healthcare Centre witnessed the presence of sons and daughters of Ola at home and abroad.

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