The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Court warns EFCC boss over non-compliance with order to release 27 wrongly seized houses

    Court warns EFCC boss over non-compliance with order to release 27 wrongly seized houses

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has cautioned the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the alleged continued failure to comply with its October 31 judgment directing the commission to immediately release 27 houses it had wrongfully seized, presuming they were acquired with proceeds of crime.

    The warning was issued on Tuesday in a Form 48 by the court’s Registrar and addressed directly to the EFCC Executive Chairman.

    It reads, “To the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of Plot 301/302, Institute and Research Cadastral District, Jabi, Abuja. 

    “Take notice that unless you obey the direction contained in the order of the Federal High Court, made on 31st October, 2025, which ordered you to immediately release the property documents to the property owners/respondents in suit no: FHC/ABJ/CS/348/2025, you will be guilty of contempt of court. 

    “A copy of the said order of court which was earlier served on you is hereby annexed for ease of reference.

    “This court has been informed that even as at today, Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025 you are yet to comply with the lawful order of the Federal High Court by refusing to release the property documents to the property owners/respondents. 

    “You are hereby directed to comply with the order forthwith or you will be guilty of contempt of court.” 

    The EFCC had, on March 13 obtained an ex-parte interim forfeiture order against the 27 properties located across the country, and which th court ordered it to publish within 14 days for interested parties to appear and show cause why they should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

    Following its publication of the interim forfeiture order in the Punch newspaper of April 4 as ordered by the court, James Ikechukwu Okwete and his company, Jamec West African Limited claimed ownership 26 of the properties, while Adebukunola Iyabode Oladapo showed interest in House No: 12 Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja.

    Okwete, Jamec Ltd and Oladapo objected to EFCC’s subsequent application for final forfeiture of the properties.

    In a judgment on October 31, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik upheld the objection by Okwete, Jamec and Oladapo, dismissed EFCC’s application for final forfeiture; vacated the earlier order for interim forfeiture and ordered the commission to immediately release the properties.

    In the October 31 judgment, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik said based on her analysis of the evidence presented before the court, “I firmly find that the property owner/respondent’s (Okwete’s) affidavit to show cause has merit. 

    “Additionally, I hold in favour of the Adebukunola lyabode Oladapo being person interested in House No: 12 Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja, FCT, that since the learned senior counsel for the applicant (EFCC) has informed court that it has no objection to her affidavit to show cause, that her affidavit filed to show cause, stands substantiated in its entirety. 

    “Without more, I forthwith set aside and vacate in its entirety the interim order of Forfeiture granted on 13th March 2025 to the applicant in respect of the properties listed in the schedule attached to the applicant’s ex-parte originating motion. 

    “Accordingly, I order the immediate release of the aforementioned properties/its documents to the property owner/respondent and the House No: 12 Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja, FCT to Adebukunola lyabode Oladapo respectively. 

    “In that vein, the applicant’s motion for final forfeiture along with the corresponding responses filed are now otiose. I so hold,” Justice Abdulmalik said.

    However, lawyer to Okwete and Jamec Ltd, Serekowei Larry (SAN) has written to the Chairman of the EFCC complaining about the commission’s alleged failure to comply with the judgment.

    The November 27 letter written by Larry on behalf of Okwete and Jamec Ltd reads: “We write as counsel to Mr. James Okwete and his company ~ Jamec West Africa Ltd ‘the property owners,’ to formally apprise you of the events that have followed this case since 31th October, 2025 when judgment was given against you. 

    “As indicated above, judgment was given by the Federal High Court, coram: Hon. Justice Joyce O. Abdulmalik on Friday 31th October, 2025 in presence of your counsel, led by Maryam Hayatudeen Esq. 

    “On 14th November, 2025, the judgment order was served on your good office and nothing was done to obey it. 

    “On 26th November, 2025, the Federal High Court through its Enforcement Unit, led by Mrs. Lilian Amenger, proceeded to your office to execute the judgment which simply required your office to hand over the title documents of the properties, subject matter of the suit to the officials of the court, 

    “In straight words, your office refused to do so, thereby blatantly disobeying the said judgment which in its penultimate paragraph used the words, ‘the immediate release.’

    “In any regime, talk less of a democracy, it will be the height of it, if judgments of court are blatantly disobeyed. We however, want to believe that you are not aware of what happened, hence this letter. 

    “We anticipate your positive reactions within reasonable time before we take further steps.”

  • Hub seeks to redefine information use

    Hub seeks to redefine information use

    The maiden edition of the KM and Comms Village has debuted in Abuja with a bold mission to transform how organisations generate, interpret, and deploy information for smarter decision-making and impact.

    Designed as a multi-day, multi-format convening, the new initiative seeks to shift institutional thinking by treating knowledge as a central driver of strategy rather than a support function, by featuring expert roundtables, solution labs, knowledge clinics, storytelling hubs, micro-masterclasses, and curated showcases of tools and innovations, each aimed at fostering co-creation, better information use, and practical problem-solving.

    The Convener, Dr. Adeshola Komolafe, said the Village was conceived as “a needed space for collective thinking and problem solving,” noting that many institutions struggle not because they lack information but because they lack systems that convert data into actionable intelligence.

    She said: “The KM and Comms Village debuted from a simple but urgent question. How do we turn raw information into intelligence, and intelligence into action? This Village is a living community of practice where people can explore those questions together.”

    A key highlight of the debut was its intentionally curated physical environment, designed to reinforce the Village’s purpose of demonstrating how knowledge and communication shape organisational impact.

    She said: “We created the KM and Comms Village to demonstrate that knowledge and communication are not support functions. They are strategic levers that shape how organisations think, respond, and create impact.

    “Every installation, every visual, every object in this Village is intentional. We want participants to experience what it means to communicate with purpose, to see how knowledge can be translated into clarity, and to understand that systems of learning and communication must be built deliberately.”

    She added that the Village was designed as an open, cross-sector meeting point saying, “This space is not reserved for experts. It is a place where programme leads, researchers, policy specialists, data analysts, storytellers, civil society actors, government representatives, creatives, students, and curious minds can come with questions and leave with clarity. That is what a true community of practice offers.”

    According to her, today’s development and governance challenges require breaking down silos.

    “To address complex issues, we must dismantle silos. The Village is designed as a meeting point for diverse perspectives to engage, challenge assumptions, and build better systems.”

    She emphasised that the long-term vision was to build a leading platform for thought leadership, capacity strengthening, and innovation at the intersection of knowledge and communication.

    “The Village aims to produce actionable prototypes, documented insights, strengthened networks, and a living repository of tools, stories, and lessons.

    “We are nurturing an active community of practice committed to continuous learning, creativity, and collaboration. With this debut, we are not just hosting an event; we are opening a space where ideas breathe, where knowledge becomes usable, and where communication drives meaningful transformation.”

    Describing the experience as a game-changer for the field, one of the participants, Joseph Mutah called it “the beginning of something important that will influence how institutions approach knowledge and communication,”

    Another participant, Khadija Monguno said “the Village brings learning, creativity, and strategy into one coherent space. It shows what becomes possible when ideas are allowed to breathe and when communication is treated as a craft.”

  • 850 technicians graduate from NNPC/Seplat JV training centre in 30 years

    850 technicians graduate from NNPC/Seplat JV training centre in 30 years

    No fewer than 850 world-class technicians have graduated from the NNPC/Seplat JV training centre in Eket local government area of Akwa Ibom state in the past 30 years.

    The last batch of forty-nine technicians in the G13 class graduated from the Centre in the areas of Applied Instrumentation and Controls Technology, Applied Electrical Maintenance and Technology, Applied Oil and Gas Technology and Applied Mechanical Maintenance Technology.

    This took place on Tuesday as the centre celebrated 30 Years of Technical Training Excellence and 2 Million Incident-Free Offshore Man-Hours without a single recordable incident in its offshore operations.

    The commemorative event, themed “From Roots to Results – Three Decades of Growth,” brought together industry leaders, community partners, government representatives, and families of the graduating apprentices.

    In his keynote address, Roger Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Seplat Energy Plc, represented by Samson Ezugworie, Chief Operations Officer, Seplat Energy Plc welcomed guests and emphasized the significance of the moment.

    He described the ceremony as “a celebration of a journey that began thirty years ago and has evolved into something exceptional,” maintaining that the theme of the event, “From Roots to Results – Three Decades of Growth,” perfectly reflects the transformational path that the TTC has traveled since its establishment.

    Brown said that the TTC founded three decades ago was created with a visionary purpose “to build a world-class pipeline of indigenous technicians equipped to compete globally and to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s industrial and energy development. “

    He said, “TTC was built on a bold belief, abelief that developing local talent would strengthen operational excellence and shape the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape. Those were our roots — and today, the results speak for themselves.”

    He said that the achievements of the centre underscored the enduring impact its impact across the industry, including more than 850 technicians trained since inception, many of whom now hold leadership positions both within and outside Nigeria.

    According to him, “TTC’s distinction as the world’s first City & Guilds Centre of Excellence is an infallible proof of the centre’s global reputation for high standards and rigorous training.

    Addressing the graduands directly, the Brown congratulated them on achieving an important step in their professional journey. “This moment belongs to you. You have earned it through dedication and discipline. You are entering a world that is dynamic and competitive, but you are ready, equipped not only with technical expertise, but with the mindset and values that define excellence,” he said.

    John Itsueli, General Manger, JV Operations, highlighted the TTC’s “humble beginning in a small office at the Qua Iboe Terminal”, and its growth into a world class institution, which now sees it “proudly recognnised as the first City and Guilds Centre of Excellence globally.”

    He commended “the trainers, assessors, administrators and support teams whose tireless efforts have named these achievements possible.”

    On his part, Goodluck Enimedoukienoniso, Best Graduating Student of the G13, expressed gratitude to all who made their journey possible to this point.

    He described his position as an honour and privilege because of the standard set by those who graduated from the TCC before them.

    Paying tribute to former students, he assured that the G13 would be building on the globally high standards the TCC has become famous for.

    He said, “thank you for the foundation you laid. We will build on it. These past two years have changed us. We came here as eager trainees but stand here today as professionals; professionals forged by challenges.”

    He assured that the G13 is ready to carry on, to join the workforce and make great impact because “We have been constructed, conscripted, pressure tested, culture tested and, dare I say, carved for purpose.”

    In his closing remarks, Oladotun Isiaka, Managing Director, Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited, expressed delight at the growth and impact the TCC has made in the industry over the years, and expressed optimism that the G13 would be no exception.

  • Calabar celebrates 20th anniversary of iconic carnival, as Governor lights Christmas

    Calabar celebrates 20th anniversary of iconic carnival, as Governor lights Christmas

    As the city of Calabar prepares to host the 20th edition of its famous and iconic street party known as the ‘Carnival Calabar and Festival,’ the Cross River State Government has assured global stars, cultural enthusiasts, creators, investors, and tourists who would be visiting the area of a memorable time throughout the event. 

    This assurance was given on Sunday, November 30, 2025, during the symbolic Christmas tree lighting at the Millennium Park by Governor Bassey Otu.

    The ceremony, witnessed by four former Governors including Clement Ebiri, Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke, and Ben Ayade, officially marked the start of the festive season in the state and the month-long series of activities related to the annual carnival.

    Reiterating his administration’s commitment to improve on existing standards, Governor Otu said, “My team and I will continue to grow Cross River through human capital development, industrialisation, rural transformation, and tourism.” 

    A culture and tourism expert in the state, Joseph Nneji, disclosed that every arrangement to make this year’s edition of the annual carnival a truly historic and remarkable one had been put in place.

    “Twenty years of the Carnival Calabar and festival is not just a celebration for Cross River State, but for Africa and the world.

     “We invite everyone—governments, tourists, creatives, brands, and cultural institutions—to join us in commemorating two decades of excellence,” he said.

    Considered Africa’s biggest street party, the Carnival Calabar and Festival has over the last two decades created its own distinct image and history, becoming one of the most anticipated events of each year during the process. 

    Starting out as a simple strategy by the state to promote tourism and reposition the city as a cultural hub, the month-long fiesta has since blossomed into a global entertainment spectacle that continues to attract millions of visitors—physical and online—edition after edition. 

    From Brazil to Colombia, France to Germany, South Africa to Ghana, and other parts of the world, the iconic carnival remains a big hit among fun lovers.

    From its early days featuring community dance troupes and traditional masquerades, the carnival has expanded to include international music concerts, street parades by themed bands like Seagull, Passion 4, Bayside & Freedom, cultural exhibitions, bikers’ parades, and beauty pageants. 

    The annual event has also continued to spotlight Nigerian fashion designers, filmmakers, dancers, musicians, and cultural storytellers, making Calabar a December destination for the world.

    This year’s edition is expected to feature international performance blocs from at least 10 countries, showcase the local culture to a global audience through special heritage displays, and bring together top global influencers, filmmakers, and tourism ambassadors. 

    In addition, the state aims to reestablish Calabar as West Africa’s tourism capital, bringing fresh opportunities for local businesses, artisans, performers, and investors through an investment summit aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s creative and hospitality sectors.

    As the city prepares to host the world, the impact the Carnival Calabar and Festival has made over the last 20 years speaks for itself—millions of visits recorded, thousands of jobs created, and hundreds of new talented and constantly evolving creatives discovered and pushed to the limelight.

    This year, the carnival not only promises to honour its past but also set a new vision for the next 20 years with the central goal of making Calabar the undisputed cultural capital of Africa.

  • Osun PDP Reps caucus disowns guber primary, blames Makinde for party’s crisis

    Osun PDP Reps caucus disowns guber primary, blames Makinde for party’s crisis

    The Osun State caucus in the House of Representatives on Wednesday accused Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, of attempting to interfere in Osun politics by importing “thugs and political jobbers” to conduct a governorship primary in the state.

    In a statement issued in Abuja, the caucus, all members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), rejected Tuesday’s governorship primary and warned the purported winner, Adebayo Adedamola Fryo, not to present himself as a PDP candidate.

    The caucus members include Bamidele Salam, Mudashiru Lukman Alani, Akanni Clement Ademola, Adewale Moruf Adebayo, Adetunji Abidemi Olusoji, and Oladebo Lanre Omoleye.

    They accused Governor Makinde of political brigandage and formally disowned the primaries allegedly conducted under his influence, expressing disappointment in his actions.

    Condemning what they described as a “purported governorship primary” orchestrated with outsiders from Ibadan, the lawmakers stated that Makinde’s conduct reflects desperation for regional political influence and amounts to untoward behavior capable of destabilizing Osun’s political environment.

    They further emphasized that the PDP has established procedures for primaries, including the election of ward ad-hoc and national delegates, without which no primary can be considered valid.

    “We unequivocally reject the fraudulent conduct of a purported primary that threw up one Adebayo Adedamola Fryo as the PDP candidate in the 2026 elections,” the statement read. The caucus warned Fryo that parading himself as a candidate would constitute criminal impersonation and provoke the party in Osun State.

    Highlighting Makinde’s political immaturity, the lawmakers advised him to heed the Yoruba proverb: a man accused of theft should not approach the villagers’ chickens at night.

    They cautioned him against exporting impunity and recklessness to Osun, which has a sitting governor known for inclusive governance.

    Reiterating their commitment to the PDP Constitution, the Nigerian Constitution, and the Electoral Act, the lawmakers urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to discard the results of the alleged primaries and ensure adherence to proper procedures in selecting candidates.

  • Fire service officer dies in Lagos traffic accident

    Fire service officer dies in Lagos traffic accident

    A federal fire service officer stationed at the Trade Fair Complex in Lagos tragically died on Wednesday following a traffic incident along the Trade Fair inward Abule-Ado service lane.

    According to LASTMA spokesman, Adebayo Taofiq, preliminary investigations revealed that a commercial motorcyclist, riding against the designated one-way traffic at high speed, collided with the firefighter as he attempted to cross the expressway.

    In the ensuing confusion, a heavily laden Shacman truck (registration number JJJ 919 YK) was unable to brake in time, resulting in a fatal impact.

    LASTMA officers secured the scene and informed the Onireke Police Division, which has commenced an official investigation. Both the motorcyclist and the truck driver reportedly fled the scene before authorities could apprehend them.

    Colleagues of the deceased firefighter evacuated his remains from the Trade Fair Complex using an official ambulance.

    Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olaleken Bakare-Oki, expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family, praying for strength and comfort during this difficult period.

     He assured the family of the agency’s support during this period.

    Bakare-Oki decried the persistent menace of wrong-way driving in Lagos, warning motorists and commercial drivers that reckless disregard for traffic laws leads to preventable tragedies.

    According to him, “road users should obey directional signs and comply strictly with government-approved speed limits as an essential civic responsibility towards preserving human life.”

    LASTMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to promoting safety, enforcing traffic laws, and fostering a more disciplined and responsible motoring culture throughout Lagos State.

  • ‘Draw strength to carry on’ – Ibori tells Segun Awolowo’s widow

    ‘Draw strength to carry on’ – Ibori tells Segun Awolowo’s widow

    Former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, has urged Bola, the widow of the late Segun Awolowo jnr, to find strength in the glowing tributes poured on her husband following his passing.

    The late Segun, grandson of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the age of 62.

    Speaking on Tuesday night at the Night of Tributes held in honour of the late lawyer and former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, Ibori described Awolowo as a humble, dignified, and impactful public servant whose legacy will endure.

    Addressing the widow directly, Ibori said, “All we will say here and all you have heard is for you to draw strength to carry on. Our guy was great.”

    The former governor recalled that he was attending a similar tribute event for the late Oskar Ibru when news of Awolowo’s death reached him, describing the moment as a painful irony.

    “My first thought was, ‘What a season!’ It was a life fully lived in all its chapters. To be honest, I never imagined it would come so soon. We all knew he was struggling, but that did nothing to soften the blow. The reality came with such weight, bringing profound shock and sadness,” he said.

    Ibori praised Awolowo’s calm disposition, integrity, and devotion to service, noting that despite his lineage, he carried the Awolowo name “not as a crown but as a responsibility.”

    According to him, the late Awolowo distinguished himself in public service, especially during his tenure as NEPC chief, where he championed Nigeria’s non-oil export drive with vision and diligence.

    “He performed exceptionally well. He was not there for the title but for tangible results. He was a true servant of the nation,” Ibori stated.

    He added that Awolowo’s life reflected humility, discipline, and purposeful leadership, describing him as “a bridge between a storied past and a hopeful future.”

    The former governor extended condolences to the Awolowo family and all who knew him, praying for comfort and strength in their time of grief.

    “Segun Awolowo jnr’s life reminds us that true impact is often made, not with fanfare but with consistent principled action. He was a bridge between a storied past and a hopeful future, demonstrating how to honour one’s heritage while carving out a distinct and impactful path.

    As we mourn his passing, we extend our deepest condolences to the entire family, led by his wife Bola and all who knew and loved him. May they find comfort in the respect and affection that his life has inspired. His was a life well lived, though it ended too soon. He embodied grace under pressure, service over self, and the enduring power of a good name. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace. Rest in peace, Shegee. Good night,” Ibori concluded.

  • 9.8 million Nigerians pre-registered in first phase of continuous voter registration – INEC

    9.8 million Nigerians pre-registered in first phase of continuous voter registration – INEC

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced on Wednesday that approximately 9.891 million Nigerians have pre-registered online in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise at the conclusion of its first phase.

    Mrs. Victoria Eta-Messi, INEC’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, stated that of this total, 2,572,054 Nigerians have completed their registration, both physically and online.

    She added that the first phase of the exercise will close on December 10, 2025, with the voters’ register set to be displayed for claims and objections from December 15 to 21. The second phase of the CVR is scheduled to commence on January 15, 2026.

    The statement reads, “Nigerians may recall that the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise commenced with online pre-registration on 18th August 2025, followed by in-person registration on 25th August 2025 across the 774 Local Government Areas, all State Offices, and the FCT.

    “The Commission wishes to inform the public that the first quarter of this exercise will formally close on Tuesday, 10th December 2025.

    “In line with Section 19 of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission will commence the Display of the Register of Voters for Claims and Objections from 15th to 21st December 2025. The display will take place at the Local Government Offices, where the exercise took place.

    “The Commission urges all eligible citizens, especially those who registered, transferred, or updated their information during this phase, to use this statutory window to verify their details, report inaccuracies, and draw attention to ineligible or deceased persons on the register. Public participation in this process is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the Register of Voters.

    “As part of its weekly update, the Commission reports that at the end of the 13th week of the exercise, a total of 9,891,801 online pre-registrations have been received nationwide. Of this total, 2,572,054 registrations have been fully completed, including 1,503,832 online completions and 1,068,222 physical registrations as of November 28, 2025.

    “The Commission also wishes to remind the public that the CVR exercise in Anambra State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) remains suspended due to electoral activities in both locations. New dates for the resumption of the exercise in both locations will be communicated in due course.

    “In line with the earlier released timelines for the CVR exercise, the 2nd phase of the exercise will resume on January 5th, 2026.

    “INEC reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a credible, inclusive, and transparent Register of Voters, and counts on the continued cooperation of Nigerians as we work together to strengthen our democracy”.

  • Nigeria to host major global defence exhibition

    Nigeria to host major global defence exhibition

    Nigeria is set to host one of the world’s largest defence gatherings, Africa International Defence Exhibition and Conference (AFRIDEX) next year, organisers announced in Abuja last week.

    The event, slated for October 26 to 29, at the Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, will consolidate the country’s role as a regional hub for defence innovation, industrial growth, and security cooperation.

    Addressing journalists at the press conference, President dmg events, Christopher Hudson, noted that Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has demonstrated “a clear vision to position itself at the centre of the continent’s defence and security dialogue”, citing the Federal Government’s strong commitment and high-level backing from the Armed Forces.

    The inaugural event is expected to draw more than 30,000 attendees from over 100 countries, with 500 exhibiting companies, 200 expert speakers, official delegations, and national pavilions from leading defence-producing nations.

    The exhibition, he said, will feature live demonstrations of next-generation systems, strategic briefings and engagements aimed at governments, military leaders and defence manufacturers.

    Hudson said all segments of the defence sector, including air, land, maritime, cyber, and space, were witnessing rapid growth across Africa, with countries collectively spending $52.1 billion on defence in 2024, a figure projected to rise in the coming years.

    “For governments, AFRIDEX will provide access to sovereign-capability partners and solutions aligned with Africa’s operational realities. For the industry, it will open engagement with the continent’s largest buyers and procurement leaders,” he said.

    Hudson described the event as a defining moment for Nigeria, which is working to strengthen its defence industrial base, promote research and innovation, and localise production.

    The exhibition is being jointly organised with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), whose Director General, Major General BI Alaya, serves as a strategic partner, alongside a steering committee chaired by Major General John Lar.

    Hudson said the partnership between the Ministry of Defence, DICON, and dmg events reflected a shared goal of driving investment, building capability, and enhancing Africa’s defence self-reliance.

    “We will deliver an exhibition that meets the highest international standards, attracts global participation and serves as a catalyst for collaboration, industrial growth and strategic dialogue,” he added.

  • FG unveils full oral health services, PHCs integration plan

    FG unveils full oral health services, PHCs integration plan

    The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oral healthcare nationwide through improved legislation, expanded workforce training, and stronger institutional coordination, as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s high burden of preventable oral diseases.

    The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Adekunle Salako, said dental facilities across the country would be upgraded and equipped, while additional dental professionals would be recruited at the primary healthcare level to expand access.

    For emphasis, he said community health workers, primary health centre (PHC) staff, and traditional birth attendants are also being trained to identify and refer cases of noma, cleft lip, cleft palate, and other severe oral conditions for timely, often free treatment.

    To ensure full integration of oral health into Nigeria’s primary healthcare system, he said PHCs have been mandated to provide oral hygiene education, counselling, basic diagnostics, fluoride treatment, restorative services, and referrals.

    He added that the reorganisation and expansion of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) will make more resources available to support oral healthcare, particularly for vulnerable groups.

    Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during the commemoration of the 2025 National Oral Health Week and Noma Awareness Day, Salako noted that the steps become necessary considering that millions of Nigerians, especially children and the elderly, continue to suffer from preventable conditions such as dental caries, periodontal disease, and oral cancers, which undermine dignity, productivity, and quality of life.

    He warned that noma remains one of the most devastating of these conditions, describing it as a rapidly progressing gangrenous disease that mostly affects malnourished children living in extreme poverty.

    “Every Nigerian needs access to dental services,” he said, stressing the need for greater awareness, improved oral-health literacy, and the adoption of modern technologies to strengthen service delivery.

    He called for a whole-of-society response, linking the elimination of noma and other oral diseases to improvements in nutrition, sanitation, housing, immunisation, and maternal and child health, saying, “Noma is not just a medical failure, but a societal inadequacy.”

    Earlier, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, said noma is a preventable but devastating condition affecting mostly malnourished and vulnerable children, and that eliminating it requires more than clinical care.

    She said nutrition, clean water and sanitation, social safety nets, and community empowerment must work together with oral-health services to stop new cases and reduce mortality.

    Kachollom highlighted Nigeria’s key role in securing the WHO’s recognition of noma as a Neglected Tropical Disease in 2023, describing it as a milestone that has helped mobilise global attention, funding, and research.

    She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening workforce capacity and ensuring oral-health services are accessible, affordable, and sustainable.

    Chairman of the Noma Aid Nigeria Initiative (NANI), Mathis Winkler, described Nigeria as the most affected country in Africa and said this reality makes it essential for international partners to concentrate their efforts locally.

    He said the initiative’s mission is to treat survivors and prevent new cases through awareness, early detection, and community-based interventions.

    Winkler noted that NANI has been instrumental in establishing and operating specialised noma treatment programmes, including the Noma Treatment Center at the National Hospital, Abuja, where survivors receive surgical reconstruction, psychological support, nutritional rehabilitation, and follow-up care.

    He said the organisation focuses on early identification of at-risk children, strengthening local medical capacity, and raising awareness of noma as a preventable disease, while working with communities to address root causes such as malnutrition and poor sanitation.

    “We are here to treat, support, and prevent. And as long as Noma still affects children in Nigeria, we will continue this work,” he said.

    NANI Country Director, Dr Charles Ononiwu, revealed that the centre has carried out 237 free reconstructive surgeries in its mission to address a disease that overwhelmingly affects children in rural and impoverished communities.

    He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s recent progress, attributing improvements to increased awareness, stronger government support, and enhanced focus on neglected tropical diseases.

    Ononiwu reiterated that Noma is highly preventable, noting that proper nutrition, good oral hygiene, early treatment of mouth sores, and routine childhood immunisation can significantly reduce its occurrence.