The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Okrika indigenes to Wike: We are behind you

    Okrika indigenes to Wike: We are behind you

    The executive director of finance and administration of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Boma Iyaye, has said members from the Okrika nationality are ready to support the minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

    Iyaye said this when Wike received members from the Okrika nationality who paid him a “Thank You” visit on Sunday, at his residence in Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

    He disclosed that the funds for the landmark Borokiri/Okrika bridge project have been provided, while the process for the commencement of the infrastructure has kick-started.

    He appreciated the FCT minister for giving them the opportunity to visit him, pointing out that the minister has been good to him over the years which he promised to reflect in his planned Author Biography.

    Iyaye said: “We will follow you to anywhere you want us to follow because of your impactful contributions.”

    Wike appealed to Iyaye to change the narratives at the commission by embarking on major infrastructure projects that will have a direct impact on the lives of the Niger Delta people.

    Read Also: Ex-minister disagrees with Obasanjo over democracy not working for Africa comments

    The minister commended the Okrika people who deemed it necessary to visit and appreciate him for facilitating the appointment of one of their own to the Board of NDDC, saying that it is good to appreciate someone who has impacted your life.

    He advised Iyaye to as a matter of priority embarked on critical projects, like the Borokiri/Okrika Bridge that will connect the Niger Delta areas with the Upland in Portharcourt, not building only classrooms as obtainable in the past at the NDDC.

    Wike further disclosed that he supported the appointment of Boma Iyaye as the EDFA because of his unwavering commitment and loyalty over the years.

    He advised him to sustain the momentum, as people have lost hope in NDDC, which he must rekindle, in line with President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

    The minister also encouraged the Traditional Rulers from the Okrika Nation and other residents to support the President for the overall benefit of all and sundry.

  • Top 10 strongest WWE wrestlers in 2023

    Top 10 strongest WWE wrestlers in 2023

    Wrestling has a rich history spanning thousands of years, with roots in ancient civilizations like Greece, Rome, and Egypt.

    Over time, the sport has evolved, giving rise to various international styles and tactics. One enduring aspect that has consistently captivated fans is the display of raw physical strength by its participants.

    In the contemporary landscape of professional wrestling, 2023 boasts a roster of some of the strongest and most skilled wrestlers in history.

    One interesting aspect to note is the increasing prominence of betting platforms like mostbet pl in the world of professional wrestling. These platforms allow fans to engage with the sport on a whole new level, adding an element of excitement and involvement as they place bets on their favorite wrestlers and matches.

    Whether showcasing brute strength or technical prowess, these wrestlers have made a significant impact, captivating audiences worldwide.

    This article delves into the top 10 strongest wrestlers currently dominating the world of wrestling in 2023.

    These wrestlers have consistently showcased the skills needed to dominate their adversaries and emerge victorious. Without delay, let’s delve into the list and discover who has earned their place at the top.

    1. Mark Henry

    Mark Henry is a legendary wrestler who has been known for his immense strength and power throughout his career. As of 2023, he is still considered one of the top 10 strongest wrestlers in the world. Henry’s impressive feats of strength include lifting over 1,000 pounds in a single deadlift and pulling a semi-truck with his bare hands.

    Back in 2002, Mark competed in the first-ever Arnold Strongman Classic and won first place by beating seven other men. Five of those men had qualified for the competition, including two previous winners of the World’s Strongest Man competition. Mark had also taken part in the Olympics twice, in 1992 and 1996, and even won a medal at the Pan American Games.

    He has also won multiple championships throughout his career, including the World Heavyweight Championship and the ECW Championship. Despite his retirement from in-ring competition, Mark Henry’s legacy as one of the strongest wrestlers in history continues to live on.

    2. John Cena

    John Cena has faced a lot of criticism in his career, but one thing people can’t deny is his dedication to fitness. He lifts weights regularly and is almost at the level of a world-class weightlifter. Even though he may not have the technical abilities of some other wrestlers, Cena always tries to add new moves to his repertoire to improve his performance.

    He is known for his mental toughness and willingness to push himself for the good of the product, even when facing criticism. While he may have started out trying to become a bodybuilder, Cena has always had a passion for professional wrestling.

    3. Ezekiel Jackson

    Ezekiel Jackson is one of the top 10 strongest wrestlers in the world as of 2023. He is known for his impressive physique and raw power, which have earned him the nickname “The Personification of Domination”. Jackson has won multiple championships throughout his career, including the ECW Championship and the Intercontinental Championship.

    He is also a former member of The Corre, a stable of dominant wrestlers. Although Jackson has not been active in wrestling in recent years, his legacy as one of the strongest and most dominant wrestlers in history continues to be remembered by fans.

    4. The Rock

    Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time and is still considered one of the top 10 strongest wrestlers in the world as of 2023. He has a chiseled physique and impressive strength that have earned him countless championship titles, including the WWE Championship multiple times.

    In addition to his wrestling success, The Rock has also become a Hollywood superstar, starring in blockbuster films such as “Jumanji” and “Fast and Furious”. Despite his busy acting career, The Rock remains a beloved figure in the wrestling community, and his legacy as one of the strongest wrestlers of all time lives on.

    5. Brock Lesnar

    The former UFC heavyweight champion is incredibly strong, Brock Lesnar was a force to be reckoned with from the moment he debuted, using his strength to succeed in the WWE, attempt a career in the NFL, and even reach the top of the UFC.

    Lesnar is known for relying on his physical prowess to achieve his goals, and he can easily lift and throw opponents much smaller than him. Watching Lesnar in action is truly a sight to behold.

    6. Big Show

    Big Show, also known as Paul Wight, is one of the top 10 strongest wrestlers in the world as of 2023. Standing over 7 feet tall and weighing over 400 pounds, he is a formidable force in the ring. Big Show has won multiple championships throughout his career.

    He is known for his incredible strength and ability to dominate opponents with his sheer size and power. Despite being in the later stages of his career, Big Show remains a respected and feared wrestler, with his legacy as one of the strongest wrestlers of all time secured.

    7. Kane

    Kane, also known as Glenn Jacobs, is one of the strongest wrestlers in the world as of 2023. With a towering height of 7 feet and a muscular build, Kane has the raw power to dominate his opponents in the ring. He has won multiple championships throughout his career, including the WWE Championship and the World Heavyweight Championship. Kane is also known for his unique character and intimidating presence, often wearing a mask and setting off pyrotechnics during his entrance.

    8. Lord Tensai

    Lord Tensai, also known as Matt Bloom, is one of the strongest wrestlers in the world as of 2023. He has a large and muscular build that makes him a formidable opponent in the ring. Throughout his career, he has won multiple championships in various promotions, including the WWE. Lord Tensai is also known for his impressive martial arts skills, having trained extensively in Japan before becoming a wrestler.

    He is a dominant force in the ring, often using his strength and martial arts prowess to overpower and defeat his opponents. Lord Tensai’s strength and unique fighting style continue to make him a feared competitor in the world of professional wrestling.

    9. Sheamus

    Despite being known as a brawler and holding the title of the Great White and current World Heavyweight Champion, Sheamus is actually quite versatile in his abilities. He can perform various tasks, such as leaping over obstacles, using his agility for a Brogue Kick, and using his strength for a High Cross. Even though he weighs almost 270 pounds, Sheamus is also incredibly flexible.

    However, he struggles with managing his anger, which affects his professional shape. Overall, Sheamus is a physically and mentally powerful wrestler in the WWE.

    10. Ryback

    Ryback, also known as Ryan Reeves, is one of the strongest wrestlers in the world as of 2023. He has a muscular build and is known for his impressive feats of strength in the ring. Ryback has competed in various promotions, including the WWE, where he gained a reputation as a dominant force.

    Ryback has been very strong in his past two squash matches, it’s scary to think about how much stronger he could get because he still has a lot of potentials.

    His signature move, Shell Shocked, involves lifting his opponent onto his shoulders and then dropping them to the ground with incredible force.

    Conclusion

    We’ve taken a look at the top 10 strongest wrestlers in the world in 2023, and let’s just say that we wouldn’t want to get on their bad side! These wrestlers have proven that they have the strength, skill, and determination to dominate their opponents and come out victorious.

    It’s no wonder that they are some of the most beloved and feared wrestlers in the industry today. So if you ever find yourself face-to-face with one of these powerhouse wrestlers, just remember to run the other way and hope for the

  • FG woos Mexican investors with tax holidays, easy movement of profits

    FG woos Mexican investors with tax holidays, easy movement of profits

    The federal government is wooing investors into the solid minerals sector with incentives that would make investing in the sector attractive.

    The incentives include zero duty on equipment imported for solid minerals extraction, easy movement of profits to the countries of origin and tax holidays.

    Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake stated this in Abuja when he welcomed investors to his office.

    The special assistant media to the minister, Segun Tomori in a press statement added that Alake praised the decision of investors from the Republic of Chile to visit Nigeria in search of investment in solid minerals.

    He stated: “Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Oladele Alake has praised the decision of investors from the Republic of Chile to visit Nigeria in search of investment in solid minerals.

    “Welcoming the investors to his office recently, Alake said the administration of President Bola Tinubu has put in place incentives to ease business for investors in the industry.

    “The incentives include zero duty on equipment imported for solid minerals extraction, easy movement of profits to the countries of origin and tax holidays.

    “The minister said investors in the mining industry are expected to sign Community Development Agreement with the communities in the mining area to ensure the socio-economic development of the region that benefits the people.

    “He said the administration is currently sanitising the industry citing the recent revocation of titles which failed to comply with the law on annual service fee.

    “Introducing the investors, Nigeria’s outgoing Ambassador to Mexico, former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Adejare Bello assured the minister that the embassy has screened the investors and confirmed that they are genuine and serious businessmen whose investment will boost the economy.

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    “Ambassador Bello said the Nigerian Embassy has been engaging the investors in talks over two years and decided to lead them to the minister after it certified their status.

    “The Honourable minister is aware that ambassadors have been recalled. This visit is the reason why I stayed back so that I can bring them to you. Now, that i have achieved my mission, I will go back, pack my luggage and return home.

    “Speaking on behalf of other investors, President,  Seccion Internacional Para Africa, Dr. Heriberto Garcia Cortes thanked the minister for the talks adding that they see Nigeria as their African home that deserves all the support in the quest to expand the economy.

    “He said the meeting with the minister has helped to chart the way  and given the assurance that their investment will be safe and profitable in the country.”

  • Ex-minister disagrees with Obasanjo over democracy not working for Africa comments

    Ex-minister disagrees with Obasanjo over democracy not working for Africa comments

    A former Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Chief Nduese Essien has disagreed with ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo over his comments that democracy was not working for Africa.

    Essien, who spoke at the weekend with reporters in Uyo, said the presidential Western style democracy has not failed in Nigeria because it has not been practlsed according to the rules.

    He noted that what  is being practiced  in Nigeria since 1999 is not the presidential system of Western democracy, but a modified form of democracy by the operators of the system.

    He said: “Let me start by saying that this was an interesting assessment by former President Oiusegun Obasanjo, but he took it out of context with realities on ground. Western style democracy has not failed in Nigeria because we have not practlsed it according to the rules.

    “We inherited the parliamentary system from the Colonial masters and  that is a system of democratic government where the head of government derives their democratic legitimacy from the ability to command the support of the legislature.

    “This worked up to the independence supervised by the colonial masters. By 1966 the Military said it was marred by corruption so they discarded it. But by 1979 we adopted the Presidential system. That also worked for four years until the military struck again under the excuse of petty corruption.

     “By 1999 we resumed with the Presidential system which of course involves rigid adherence to the Separation of powers between the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary. So in 1999 the system was delivered safely.

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    “But the operators of the system decided to modify the separation and put all organs of government under the control of the Executive calling it ‘Guided Democracy’. The Executive embarked on deciding the President of the Senate, Speaker of the House and the leadership of the National Assembly.

    “So we reached a stage where the Executive decided to take full control of the National Assembly selecting the leadership of the Assembly. Thereafter they went on to choose and remove the leadership of the parties under the whims and caprices of the President.

    “Then next, the Judiciary fell into the hands of the Executive. Then the Electoral process fell into the hands of the Executive. So what we have practiced since 1999 is not the presidential system of Western democracy, but a modified form which I would agree with Obasanjo is the Afro democracy.

    “Let us not blame the Western democracy, let us blame ourselves for introducing our own version of democracy with unending modifications to bring every institution under the control of the head of government to ensure the next election is won. So let us find some other excuse for not doing well, and not be blaming  Western democracy.”

  • Appeal Court: You are suffering from self-inflicted woes, Coalition blasts Yusuf, NNPP

    Appeal Court: You are suffering from self-inflicted woes, Coalition blasts Yusuf, NNPP

    A coalition of youths under the platform of Nigerian Youths in Politics (NYP) has told the New Nigeria Peoples Party NNPP-led administration in Kano state not to blame the judiciary for its predicament, insisting that the party is suffering from self-inflicted woes.

    The group also blasted the party for its wilful negligence of the Electoral Law on candidates’ nomination.

    Addressing newsmen in Abuja on Sunday, the President of the coalition, Comrade Magaji Alidu advised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and NNPP to stop impinging on the integrity of the judiciary, insisting that they are only paying the price for negligence of the electoral process as it affects nomination of candidates.

    He said; “Contrary to the ongoing bastardization of the Nigerian judiciary by some aggrieved persons who lost at the tribunal and the Appeal Court as a result of non-compliance with the Electoral Act 2022, as amended, we wish to state that the court did not act ultra vires when it held that Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf was not a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as of the time the party sponsored him as its governorship candidate in Kano State.

    “We agree that the tribunal strengthened democracy by deducting the uncertified ballot papers which were neither signed nor stamped by the electoral officers presiding during the poll as stipulated by law. The Electoral Act 2022, as amended, in Article 63 Sub Section 2 captures it.

    “Section 177, Sub-section C of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, states that one must be a registered member of a political party and be sponsored by the same political party to be qualified to contest for the office of a Governor of a State.

    “This is to show that those who jump from one political party to the other in a bid to secure tickets must also be careful because there is a judicial precedent to that effect. The case of Abba Yusuf is not the first, and neither will it be the last. In the case of Senator Hope Uzodinma vs Uche Nwosu, the Supreme Court had established precedence on membership of a political party and the sponsorship of a candidate.

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    “Therefore, believing that blackmailing the judiciary may lead to subversion of justice is not true. The Supreme Court is a constitutional court that deals primarily with points of law.

    “We wish to warn political actors especially those who know the law but are trying to bend it because it does not favour them that, the judiciary is a sacred institution that must not be undermined”.

    The coalition also lambasted the Attorney General of Kano State for joining in the bastardization of the image of the Justices who delivered judgment on the Kano State governorship appeal.

    “Such action is highly unprofessional and requires immediate sanctions by the Nigeria Bar Association NBA to retain the integrity of the legal profession.

    “The negative campaign being championed by the NNPP and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State should be stopped.

    “As young people in politics, we shall continue to encourage the judiciary not to be intimidated by the sponsored blackmail against it.

    “The Supreme Court is their target. They are castigating the Appeal Court Justices to blackmail the Justices of the Supreme Court to subvert justice. Democracy has come of age and the judiciary is not a cash and carries as the Attorney General of Kano State portrays.

    “We demand an immediate apology from the Kano State Government and the leadership of the NNPP for going too far in lambasting the judiciary because the judgment did not go in their favour”, the coalition demanded.”

  • Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    President Bola Tinubu has assured that the federal government would meet the “infrastructural” and “human capacity” needs of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko in Warri southwest council area of Delta state.

    Tinubu who was represented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, gave the assurance at the maiden convocation ceremony of the university on Saturday.

    He also expressed optimism that the institution would build Nigeria’s capacity in global maritime technology and business. 

    “From what I am seeing here today, I have no doubt whatsoever in my mind that in no distant time, this university would record great achievements in the area of building our capacity in maritime technology and business, in line with best global practice that will place our nation on the list of the great maritime economies of the world.

    “I am not unaware of the challenges and constraints that this university is currently contending with. Such challenges and constraints are not unusual during the early phases of the life of any institution. But I can assure you that this government, would continue to do our best to ensure your needs, in terms of infrastructure and human capacity, are addressed within the limits of available resources,” President Tinubu stated.

    He pointed out that the establishment of the NMU has brought relative peace to the entire Niger Delta region, which in the past was a hot spot of crisis and militancy.

    Tinubu further congratulated the graduands for their academic feat, charging them to put their knowledge to bear.

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    The ceremony also saw the installation of the Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom in Bayelsa State, His Eminence King Alfred Papapreye Diette-Spiff, Seriya on II, as Chancellor of the NMU.

    Meanwhile, Niger Delta ex-warlord, Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo has been conferred with a Honourary doctorate degree (Honouris Causa) of Philosophy of Education by the NMU.

    The new Chancellor, Seriya II, was also awarded a Honourary doctorate degree of Letters (Honouris Causa).

    Both honourary awards were for their contributions to the growth and development of the university. 

    In his remarks, the monarch described his installation as a great honour, promising to ensure that the institution is becomes one of the best in the world.

    Present at the ceremony were the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II and the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, HRM Monday Whiskey, Udurhie I.

  • AbdulRazaq inaugurates Education Trust Fund Board, seeks better learning outcomes

    AbdulRazaq inaugurates Education Trust Fund Board, seeks better learning outcomes

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has inaugurated members of the Education Trust Fund Board, which he said will play a key role in helping to solidify educational transformation in the state.

    “The inauguration of the Kwara State Education Trust Fund Board today is another strategic step towards providing the right environment for excellent learning outcomes for the Kwara child and to enable sustainable development in our state,” he said late Friday in Ilorin, the state capital, at the brief ceremony.

    The Governor said the inauguration represents another phase in Kwara’s journey, touting some of the achievements of the administration in the sector, such as the massive school renewal projects and investments in training of teachers. 

    “A few months ago at an education event on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, I said that investing in education is the urgency of now. This notion has been the main driver of the many reforms we have carried out in the education sector,” he said.

    “We have up-skilled and resourced thousands of teachers, and empowered tens of thousands of students with essential learning materials and more conducive school environments. 

    “Today, our teachers are reporting rapid improvements among their students. This growth is not only reported internally. Recently, Kwara passed the appraisal and was included in the World Bank’s Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment programme. Our young girls are set to enjoy the benefits of Kwara AGILE.

    “Our children are already posting great performances on the national stage. You will see that from the recent UBEC school debate, which Kwara won again after having won last year’s edition and are set to represent Nigeria in the Republic of Serbia in Europe for an international school debate.

    “Notwithstanding these feats, we are not resting on our oars. If we are to deliver the promised dramatic improvements in learning outcomes in public schools for all children across Kwara State — and I promise you we will deliver — we need strong oversight, strategic direction, and resources that will ensure longevity. 

    “This is where the Kwara State Education Trust Fund Board comes in. A critical component of our Kwara State Education Transformation Agenda (KWETA), the board will mobilise resources to support infrastructural development and growth in our education sector. It will help us build stakeholder partnerships and ensure our educational investments are effective, efficient, and aligned with our goals. 

    “We have made a deliberate choice of the distinguished chairman, secretary, and every member of this board. Their great pedigrees speak clearly of what they bring to the table. I am confident, therefore, that the board will play a key role in helping to solidify educational transformation in Kwara State.”

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    Members of the Board are Mallam Abdulhakeem Uthman Mustapha (SAN) (chairman); 

    Oluwadamilola Fatimah Amolegbe (Executive Secretary); Emir of Lafiagi Alhaji Mohammed Kudu-Kawu (Member); Permanent Secretary Ministry of Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs Kemi Mary Adeosun (Member); 

    Professor Deborah Adekeye (Member); and renowned tech giant Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (Member).

    Mustapha (SAN) commended the Governor for finding them worthy to serve in that capacity.

    He congratulated the administration for its huge investments in the education sector, adding: “What you are doing in the education sector in Kwara state is commendable. You are planting a tree for the future. It shows you are forward-thinking and you are trying to provide the workforce that will impart on our state.”

    He solicited the support of the government to achieve their goals and pledged not to disappoint the administration and entire Kwarans.

    The chairman said the board looks forward to raising some N10bn from different stakeholders, especially private sector players and philanthropists, to support education infrastructure across Kwara State. 

    The government, for its part, is to support the board with some N100m seed funds as it commences the assignment.

  • Proliferation of illegal abattoirs in Abuja worries FCTA 

    Proliferation of illegal abattoirs in Abuja worries FCTA 

     The Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat in the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is set to take decisive action against the proliferation of illegal abattoirs in the FCT.

    The development is part of efforts to ensure the adherence to established standards in meat handling and the well-being of consumers in the Territory. 

    Mandate Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Lawan Kolo Geidam, disclosed this when he met with officials of FCT Butchers Association in his office. 

    He conveyed the administration’s deep concern over the prevalence of unauthorized abattoirs, emphasising its impact on the capacity of the Veterinary Services Department to monitor and enforce compliance to operational standards, a situation which he warns poses a significant threat to the safety of meat consumed by the public.

    He said: “Our objective is in line with the statutory mandate of the Secretariat which is to ensure that abattoirs in the FCT are not only duly registered and certified but that they are all up to standard for the good of public health.”

    Geidam assured the Butchers of the Secretariat’s commitment to addressing the various challenges identified during his recent tour of abattoirs in the FCT.

    Among which include the need to  provide  non-stop water supply, efficient waste management, and the establishment of biogas stations as an alternative to the hazardous practice of using tires in processing animal skins.

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    He said:  “We will not ignore the significant issues facing our abattoirs, including the need for potable water and regular waste disposal and I assure you that present leadership of the FCT Administration, under Barrister Nyesom Wike and Honourable Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, is dedicated to FCT has standards comparable to those found anywhere in the world”.

    He informed the Butchers  that the Secretariat will intensify its daily meat inspection activities at the various abattoirs to 3nsure that no animal is slaughtered without being certified safe by the Veterinary Doctors.  

    The mandate secretary appealed for grayer understanding and full cooperation of  the Butchers in facilitating the work of Veterinary Doctors.

    In his remarks earlier, chairman of the FCT Butchers Association, Alhaji expressed the association’s full commitment to complying with the guidelines set forth by the Administration.

    The Butchers voiced their appreciation for the efforts made by the FCT Administration to improve the conditions of abattoirs, while also highlighting the pressing need to address the aging infrastructure of the abattoirs, underscoring the necessity of modernizing the facilities to ensure compliance with current standards and to enhance operational efficiency to meet the growing demand the public.

    Recognizing the significance of preventing the influx of non-certified meat products, the Association suggested that as a proactive measure, the Secretariat deploy its personnel to monitor entry points into the FCT. 

    This measure  they said will not only protect their businesses but also enhance revenue generation for the FCT Administration.

  • Church donates ICU to Alimosho General Hospital

    Church donates ICU to Alimosho General Hospital

    The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Region 36, Egbeda, Lagos State, has donated an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to the Alimosho General Hospital, Igando. 

    The ICU is named after General Overseer of the RCCG and his wife, Pastor Enoch and Mrs. Folu Adeboye.

    Adeboye, while opening the ICU at the weekend, described it as an attestation of God’s love being expressed through his children. She stressed the need for human beings to ‘think of others and what will benefit them’.

    The cleric, popularly called ‘Mummy G.O, also urged the people to be intentional about living healthy. 

    He said: “Health is more important than prosperity. We must desire good health and work towards a healthy living. We must also nurture our children in health so we don’t waste resources.

    “And to the donors of this centre, Daddy and I are proud of you and your efforts. We are joyful that our children are walking in the light. May heaven reward you abundantly,” she added.

    Pastor in charge of Region 36, Dele Jayeoba, said the church decided on the project because it has a culture of excellence in ensuring that its Corporate Social Responsibility projects (CSR) has great positive impacts on the society.

    “This is another win for Region 36. I want to believe this project will be used judiciously and more will come by the grace of God. 

    “What we met was a shell of a building. Part of the roof and windows were off, so we did a complete renovation of the structure and equipped it with modern medical equipments needed in a standard ICU. We can only pray that patients brought in there would survive by the grace of God.”

    Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. Ayodapo Soyinka, thanked the Church for the grand gesture and promised that the facility will be maintained to the utmost standard. 

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    He also promised it will be expanded beyond its current status.

    According to Soyinka, the structure was a triage centre in the heat of COVID-19 which however became redundant after the phase passed.

    He said: “So we got permission from the Ministry of Health to repurpose the building and this is what became the ICU today. We decided on the ICU because none of the government health facilities in this axis has a functional ICU, and many times we have had to refer patients to LASUTH or LUTH.

    “The church signified its interest in reinventing the place for us. They bought into our vision to transform the place to an ICU and here we are today. The church did the full renovation and brought in medical supplies needed for its full operation. So by first week in December, the ICU will become fully operational.

    “The ICU will also be run on a PPP arrangement. We have signed an agreement with a team of professionals who will be running the place, with a lot of volunteer work from our own staff, particularly from our anesthesia department. So I’m sure we will have enough personnel to run the place. And because it’s going to be semi-private run, I’m certain a high standard wil be maintained.”

    Soyinka listed equipment provided by the church to include  electric and manual beds, ventilators, six multiparameter monitors, infusion pumps, special mattresses for ICU, suction machines, oxygen concentrators, AED machine to rescue a patient experiencing cardiac arrest, and other consumables. He added that the oxygen is piped so there will be no need to move the cylinder around.

    The event was also attended by Chairman of the Lagos State Health Service Commission Dr. Atinuke Onayiga, and Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ola Olukoyede, who is also a pastor in the RCCG. He led the project team.

  • FG advances plans for local vaccine manufacturing

    FG advances plans for local vaccine manufacturing

    In its stride towards self-sufficiency in vaccine production, the federal government has undertaken a comprehensive review and validation of the National Plan for Vaccine Research & Development and Manufacturing in Nigeria. 

    The move aligns with the Four Point Agenda health sector objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the government, aiming to bolster local manufacturing and eliminate dependency on imported vaccines.

    The National plan, a first of its kind in Africa, was initially developed in 2021 and delineates the roles of key stakeholders in Nigeria’s vaccine landscape. 

    At a review and validation meeting organized by the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) in Abuja over the weekend, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, expressed optimism about the tangible outcomes of the Government’s efforts in local vaccine production.

    He said the efforts over the years to commence local vaccines production is already yielding the expected results.

    According to him, the review and validation meeting provided critical stakeholders and policy-makers the opportunity to address critical healthcare issues, while noting that it will enhance Nigeria’s entry of the pharmaceutical sector into the larger African market.

    Saying that the review and validation of the Draft Roadmap will fast-tract the achievement of the vaccine policy objectives of the federal government, Alausa, noted: “With this initiative, I am confident that the government prioritization as regards local vaccine production will begin to yield the desired result within the shortest possible time, and the reliance on importation of this important public health tool will be drastically reduced.

    Read Also: Tinubu assures NMU of infrastructural, other support

    “The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will continue to provide the necessary oversight and work with NIPRD, partners and stakeholders at the various levels to ensure that the desired results of sustainable vaccine R&D and local production in Nigeria are achieved”.  

    The minister who was represented by Dr. David Atuwo emphasized Government’s level of preparation to kick-start local vaccine manufacturing, saying, “Despite the various challenges militating against local production of vaccines, I want to state that appreciable progress has been achieved in these past few years.

    “Nigeria has recently attained Maturity Level Three (ML3) for regulatory oversight and this includes the area of vaccines.

    “With this and other ongoing reforms in the health sector, vaccines produced as a result of this process will not only satisfy national needs, but will also be available for international procurement.

    “Whilst the government is taking steps to provide the needed infrastructure requisite for the implementation of local vaccines’ production, it is commendable that NIPRD, in line with its mandate, continues to set the pace for responsive innovation in this area.”

    On the importance of the review and validation meeting, the Minister noted that “This high-level meeting is intended to bring together relevant stakeholders in order to synthesize ideas and solutions for a robust and contextual base plan to achieve sustainable local manufacturing of vaccines in Nigeria.

    “This approach will provide a strong foundation that is underpinned by empirical evidence. The adoption of this bottom-up strategy in developing this plan ensures that innovative ideas embedded in this framework are designed to stimulate local vaccines R&D and vaccines production in Nigeria.”

    In his remarks, NIPRD Director General (DG), Obi Adigwe, said the meeting was the first step to unlock the health value chain plan which will not only save lives but also address critical socio-economic indices such as job creation, capacity building, revenue generation and technology transfer.

    He said: “Africa no longer has an interest in tokenistic interventions such as fill-finish products, but has become interested in building dependable, equitable, and veracious partnerships that will enable the Continent to undertake full R&D for the production of vaccines.”