The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Culture doesn’t justify abuse of women, children, says Sanusi

    Culture doesn’t justify abuse of women, children, says Sanusi

    The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has spoken out against violence towards women and child marriage, stating that culture cannot be used to justify such abuse.

    The traditional ruler, on Wednesday, emphasised that every Nigerian is entitled to protection under the law, regardless of cultural or traditional practices.

    Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, Sanusi said, “You cannot beat a woman because your culture says you can beat her. She’s a Nigerian citizen entitled to protection.”

    The former Central Bank governor pointed out that abuse often attributed to culture is actually a symptom of deeper issues, such as unequal power dynamics, poverty, and the government’s inability to provide essential services.

    He emphasized that these underlying problems are the real drivers of abuse, rather than culture itself.

    He explained, “This violence happens in all societies; it’s not about African culture.

    “When men have power and women are not protected, men will take advantage of that power and oppress them. Women, children, the poor, and persons with disabilities are all victims.”

    Sanusi also addressed child marriage, particularly in rural communities, urging Nigerians to see the structural causes behind the practice.

    He said many girls finish primary school at around 11 with no access to secondary schools, skill centres, or safe environments, leaving families to make difficult choices.

    “Between 11 and 18, what arrangements have you made for her?” he asked.

    Read Also: Kano moves to resolve kingship impasse between Bayero, Sanusi II

    “The poor man basically finds that she’s 12 or 13; he’s afraid that she can get pregnant on the road, and the next young man that comes, he marries her off. Sometimes these cultures basically reflect poverty.”

    The Emir criticised urban perspectives that ignore rural realities, pointing out that roads are often unsafe, schools are distant or non-existent, and local government services are lacking.

    “It’s easy to blame culture. It’s easy to blame a victim. But the government has not provided the schools,” he said.

    He further criticised urban perspectives that overlook rural hardship, observing that people living in cities often fail to grasp how difficult it is for girls in remote areas to access education or basic services.

    According to him, poor roads, unsafe travel conditions, and long distances to local government centres compound the problem.

    While acknowledging the complexity of these issues, the Emir maintained that Nigeria must draw clear moral and legal boundaries.

    “As a nation, we need to have certain common agreements and values,” he said, stressing that violence against women and children is simply unacceptable.

    “It doesn’t matter what you think your culture says. The Nigerian law does not allow you to do it.”

    According to Sanusi, many acts blamed on tradition are not cultural at all but deliberate abuses of authority.

    He described them as a “culture of oppression” sustained by violence and exploitation, insisting that such practices must change if Nigeria is to protect its most vulnerable citizens.

  • Lagos approves Carter railway channel to deflood NRC compound, Ebute Meta

    Lagos approves Carter railway channel to deflood NRC compound, Ebute Meta

    The Lagos state government has moved to end decades of flooding in Ebute Meta with the construction of the Carter Railway Drainage Channel, a major stormwater project that will run through the Nigerian Railway Corporation corridor and empty into the Iponri confluence on Western Avenue.

    The intervention, announced at a stakeholders meeting held at the NRC compound, is expected to permanently deflood the railway community and adjoining neighbourhoods long plagued by seasonal flooding.

    Officials of the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources disclosed that the contract for the project, known as the Carter Railway Channel (System 4), has been awarded, and work will commence shortly.

    The Director of Drainage Services, Adedapo Ajadi, said the reinforced concrete channel will run from Murtala Muhammed Way through the NRC corridor to Iponri, adding that the initiative will bring lasting relief to residents, institutions, and businesses within the railway compound and the wider Lagos Mainland area.

    Read Also: Lagos enjoins business owners to embrace technology

    Stakeholders present at the meeting included representatives of St Saviour School, the CCECC quarters, NRC staff quarters, NTA Channel 10, churches and mosques within the corridor, the Railway Museum, the Federal Medical Centre General Hospital, the FMC Cancer Hospital, OJez Limited, and several manufacturing and MSME operators.

    They expressed relief that the state was finally delivering a permanent solution to a problem that had crippled movement and threatened infrastructure for years.

    The NRC Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, commended the initiative and pledged the Corporation’s full cooperation during the 18 month construction period. He described the project, valued in billions of naira, as a critical asset that would protect the railway corridor and improve safety for residents and operators.

    A joint inspection of the project corridor was later conducted by NRC directors, departmental representatives, and in-house union officials to identify affected sections and prepare for mobilisation.

  • Dried Blooms Review (2026): Is This Flower Brand Actually Worth the Hype?

    Dried Blooms Review (2026): Is This Flower Brand Actually Worth the Hype?

    Driedblooms is a brand that specialises in classy floral products. You can use these flowers to make your special occasions the key highlights of your life. Hence, whether you want to consider dried blooms products for your wedding or to give someone to make your loved ones special, you can consider dried blooms. Well Dried Blooms is a UK-based brand located in Weyhill. The brand itself has an excellent reputation in the market and among customers due to its exceptional service and arrangements. The company is also known for its fast service and quick delivery timelines, with excellent customer service. 

    Dried blooms are run by a group of friends and family who believe that every moment can be a special one with a little texture. These people are deeply passionate about nature and have created a brand that offers florals that elevate your spaces to the next level. One of the exciting aspects of dried blooms is that they are low-maintenance and can bring warmth to your home and your emotions.

    So whether you’re looking for a bouquet or statement floral arrangements, dried blooms always have a collection for you that will make your designs memorable for a lifetime. 

    High Credibility In The Market 

    I was recently looking for a credible, reliable floral brand and out of nowhere. I luckily found dried blooms. The brand has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot. It was an exciting yet risky journey as I needed to give them a chance and take a risk. Yet, out of my expectations, the experience with Dried blooms was amazing. They not only provided me with the exciting service but also arranged timeless flowers. The delivery was on time, with quick, prompt service, and was well packaged, showing their commitment to professionalism and making my day so special. 

    Extra Care, Extra Touches 

    Additionally, the exciting feature the dried blooms offer their customers is personalised touches. The brand allows you to add cover notes with your order and makes your loved one’s day even more special. 

    The company not only cares deeply about the customer but also ensures that customers receive a product that isn’t harmful to the environment. Hence, to ensure that the products and the brand are in alliance with nature, they offer highly sustainable products and packaging. Their high values are another reason why I got so inspired by this brand.

    Exploring The Products Of Dried Blooms 

    The Dried Blooms offers several products and collections to its customers. The highlighted collections of Dried blooms include: Letterbox flowers, Heritage flowers, Dried Wreaths, Valentine flowers and more. We will discuss all of these in the section below. 

    Letter Box Flowers 

    Letter box flowers, collected from dried blooms, range in price from £11.99 to £24.99. These flowers with their timeless beauty will force you to send them to your loved one, making their moments even more special. The most popular letter box flower products that are known as customers’ favourites are Blosses de Blaye and Toulouse Vive.

    The curated collection of letterbox flowers was thoughtfully built and inspired by the soft hues and the elegance of the French countryside. These letterbox flowers are an alternative to fresh flowers and are considered the ideal choice due to their no-maintenance, low cost, and forever blooming. The length of these letterbox flowers typically ranges from 30 to 35 cm. 

    Heritage Flowers

    The Heritage flowers from dried blooms involve golden tones with a rich, burnt orange colour, giving up the countryside texture. These heritage flowers are considered timeless and a thoughtful arrangement of straw flowers with fluffy petals and preserved leaves. These elements from dried blooms are carefully selected to create a look that rules the heart. The heritage flower bouquets are known for bringing a sense of relaxation in nature, inspiring your events and the moments.

    The size of these heritage flower collection bouquets ranges from 60 cm to 65 cm, depending on the bouquet. The collection prices range in between £42.99.

    So, if you are looking for the best heritage flower bouquet for yourself? I recommend Blush de Lyon. This was a heritage bouquet that made my day perfect. The dried blooms, moreover, ensure that their bouquets are 100% sustainable, well packaged with neutral and warm tones, helping to bring elegance every time.

    Dried Wreath

    The dried blooms’ dried wreath collection is known to bring warmth and natural elements to your space. These dried wreaths bring a range of orange and neutral fresh green colours to your space. Moreover, these wreaths are handcrafted by preserving eucalyptus leaves, fluffy orange and delicate bleach colours, bringing earthy vibes to your space.  The dried blooms also create texture and colour that lives in the heart for months.

    The combination of orange and neutral colours gives a perfect vibe and a seasonal texture to your space. So, if you are looking for something to make your space bright, then this product is definitely made for you. 

    These products have a diameter of 25 cm to 30 cm, and come with a natural wreath base in sustainable packaging. 

    Dried Blooms, Providing The Collection According To Your Occasion 

    Well, you have heard it! I was so excited to learn that the brand driedblooms.co.uk is offering a collection tailored to your occasion. The customised packages are absolutely amazing. So, whether you want the flower bouquet for your birthday or the anniversary or the flower bouquet for your graduation ceremony, dried blooms have got you covered.

    The brand runs on strong family and cultural values, and also offers bouquets for Mother’s Day to make your mother feel so special. Dried blooms also offer a customised note service to make your moment more special. 

    I personally use their birthday flowers bouquet, and these birthday flowers are extremely sweet, amazing and elegant. I completely love it.

    Search By Price 

    The dried blooms not only provide products for the occasion but also offer the option to shop on their website, with prices tailored to your budget. So, whether you have a low or high budget, you can easily search under the   ‘shop by price’ section. You can find all the products listed under this category according to your budget. Hence, it helps you to find the exact product without wasting a lot of time.

    Sustainability And The Eco-impact 

    Sustainability is of great importance, especially in today’s world, where the deployment of various products and machines has damaged the environment. There is a big impact on nature. In this situation, dried blooms make a significant contribution, providing sustainable, eco-impact-free products. 

    The environmental statistics for the fresh flower industry are often overlooked, which creates issues. These industries are overburdened by their refrigerated transport requirements, high water consumption, and heavy pesticide use. However, compared to these issues, the flower industry faces- Dried blooms come in, addressing all issues, ensuring that they provide sustainable products with a positive impact on the ecosystem. 

    • The very first is that the dried blooms are long-lasting. Unlike fresh flowers, which you can enjoy for 7-10 days.These dried flower arrangements last for months or even years, reducing waste. 
    • Additionally, it reduces the total volume of agricultural resources, thereby lowering pesticide use in agricultural fields. 
    • Dried bloom products are known for being much more biodegradable than plastic flowers, which can remain in landfills for centuries. These blooms eventually die within their timeframe in a biodegradable way. 
    • Dried bloom stands in contrast to the traditional floral industry, which is known as highly water-intensive. However, dried blooms offer products that have the lowest footprint. These dried-bloom products require zero water and can be easily preserved, resulting in water use by 90% compared to other fresh-flower maintenance. 
    • Dried bloom products are the light, hard flowers that can be easily transported and require less space with reduced emissions. 
    • The flower arrangements from dried blooms are designed to be highly compact and efficient for packing. The packaging at Dried Blooms is made of sustainable, eco-friendly materials. 

    Dried Blooms Offering A User-friendly Experience & Delivery 

    The dried blooms offer a systemised logistics solution, enabling it to remove the typical cargo system that is closely associated with the floral industry. The brand has now replaced the cargo system with a modern logistics system. 

    Dried blooms are making their customer experience extremely wonderful by providing on-time, free shipping across the UK on all orders. In an era when the majority of brands charge hidden fees or high rates, Dried Blooms is one of the few brands that offer a transparent policy and a distinct pricing model, bringing fresh value to the business. 

    Moreover, the dried blooms are gaining popularity in the market due to their rapid dispatch. Most orders for dried blooms are sent within 1 to 2 business days. If you want the order on an urgent basis, they will provide you with express premium delivery packages as well.  The arrival time of dried blooms varies depending on the orders. Once the flowers are dispatched, they will be delivered to you at your door within 1-3 business days. 

    Comparison Of Dried Blooms vs. the Industry 

    In the crowded UK market, dried blooms stand out from everyone by privatising the flower movement. The dried blooms, compared to those of other high street giants, are known for their distinction. 

    Dried Blooms Vs The Fresh Floral Industry 

    The fresh floral industry is known for revolutionising the industry with the introduction of the letter box fresh flowers and a fresh bouquet that typically costs 35 to 50 pounds per product and lasts only for 7 days. On the other side, the dried blooms come up with a floral arrangement at a price which lowers the fresh flower industry cost by almost 0.10 pounds, yet the product lasts for almost a year.

    The fresh flower industry is highly dependent on the refrigerated transport cool chain. On the other hand, dried blooms consume less energy & can have a lower carbon footprint for eco-conscious customers. 

    Dried Blooms Vs The Other Dried Flowers Competitors 

    The Dried flowers have been selling on several platforms. These platforms include several e-commerce platforms. Well, the dried bloom stands out in its own market for its logical transparency and delivery duration. There are many brands of dry flowers that provide shipping, but at a cost to the customers. 

    However, on the contrary, dried blooms offer free shipping across the UK on every order, with no minimum order required. 

    Conclusion 

    So we have analysed the Dried blooms  and can conclude that dried blooms are one of the modern classical eco-conscious retailers that are shifting their focus from disposable beauty and the traditional floral industry to the interior, long-lasting, and longevity in the modern industry. This brand not only provides a solution but also brings beauty and sustainability to the environment. 

    The products of dried blooms are long-lasting and can last for years, in comparison to the other fresh flowers, which can last only for 7 days.

    Moreover, the dried blooms care about customers and have offered a free UK shipping model with a low cost per day to bring a smooth customer experience. Additionally, sustainability factors are another exciting aspect that makes the dried blooms different from others. The 100% plastic-free packaging and low-carbon logistics makes dried blooms different from others and brings sustainability. 

    So if you are the one who is an eco-conscious gifter and want to send a thoughtful gift to your love, while keeping a green view in mind, then dried blooms are the best choice for you. I personally always support sustainability. Hence, I find Dried Blooms the best brand. So what are you waiting for? Get your dried flowers in an affordable range, too.

  • 2027: ADC can’t match APC, Wike not a problem, says Yilwatda

    2027: ADC can’t match APC, Wike not a problem, says Yilwatda

    The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, said the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) is no match for the ruling party.

    Yilwatda also said the political tension between Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara is outside the party’s jurisdiction.

    The ruling party chairman spoke on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, downplaying the electoral value of some opposition coalition leaders like the ADC National Chairman and ex-Senate President, David Mark.

    He expressed confidence that the ruling party is a party to beat, citing some factors that have been attracting opposition governors into the APC fold.

    “We have never asked anybody, we have never appealed to any civil servant. Nobody has forced any civil servant in a letter, verbally, you can bring a video to that effect, and I will apologise. Maybe the opposition is forcing civil servants so they will have numbers,” he stated.

    “ADC is not a match at all (for the APC). For every one person they have, we have five, six of them. If they have David Mark as former Senate President, we have Ahmad Lawan, we have two former Senate Presidents from the South East,” he stated.

    He dismissed claims that the APC is jittery of the opposition, stressing that contrary to insinuations, the ruling party is not forcefully recruiting civil servants into its fold.

    The APC Chairman explained that the party is not worried by the caliber of opposition leaders in the ADC, including the likes of ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, ex-Anambra governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Osun governor, Rauf Aregbesola.

    Rivers crisis

    He added that the dispute does not concern the APC leadership because Wike is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while Fubara belongs to the APC.

    “When it comes to the issue between Wike and Fubara, it’s not within my purview as the national chairman of APC. Wike is in PDP, Fubara is in APC,” he said.

    Read Also: Presidency blasts ADC as Lagos tops global tech ranking

    “When it comes to the issue between Wike and Fubara, it’s not within my purview as the national chairman of APC. Wike is in PDP, Fubara is in APC,” he said.

    The APC chairman said the impeachment controversy in Rivers state relates strictly to members of the party in the House of Assembly.

    “The issue of impeachment is not about Wike now; it concerns the APC house of assembly members. That is something I can discuss. It’s an internal matter, and we have mechanisms within APC to resolve such issues,” he added.

    Yilwatda further said internal disagreements should be handled discreetly and with maturity.

    “We don’t put these discussions in the public. Issues can be resolved through in-house activities that require maturity to address,” he added.

    Asked whether Wike is a problem to the ruling party, Yilwatda said “never, never”.

    NELFund

    During the show, he said the APC-led Federal Government has embarked on some intervention programmes to cater to the needs of Nigerians.

    Yilwatda, an engineer-turned politician, cited the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) initiative, emphasizing its impact on students and families across Nigeria.

    According to the APC chair, this adjustment helps students manage the ongoing challenges associated with paying their school fees.

    “Most students in Nigeria have difficulty paying their school fees. I know of many who had to withdraw from universities because they couldn’t afford it,” he said.

    He explained that under the NELFUND initiative, students can now access loans that cover their tuition fees, while also receiving a monthly allowance of N20,000, whether they are in school or on holiday.

    “I know a number of them who even support their parents back home, invest in farming, and during holidays, help pay the school fees of their younger siblings in secondary schools within their communities,” he added.

    According to Prof. Yilwatda, over a million students nationwide currently benefit from this program.

    “It’s available to anybody in Nigeria. If you’re a student struggling with school fees, register with your university and put your name forward to access the student loan. We offset your entire school fees, and you get N20,000 every month,” he said.

    He described the program as a social protection system, supporting households and parents across the country.

    “These are households, these are parents. Over a million students have access to it, and all their parents are looking forward to more support through NELFUND,” he stated.

    The APC chairman also touched on other social welfare programs, including health insurance, which has benefited 4 to 5 million Nigerians.

  • Funke Akindele attributes film industry success to hard work, dedication

    Funke Akindele attributes film industry success to hard work, dedication

    Actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has attributed her success in the film industry to unwavering dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to her craft.

    In a post on Instagram, Akindele reflected on her journey, stating, “As a woman in film, it wasn’t easy getting to where I am today. It took hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Staying true to my craft, embracing my originality, and carving a niche for myself paved the way. Huge thanks to everyone supporting Behind the Scenes”.

    Read Also: Biodun Okeowo praises Funke Akindele’s resilience, leadership

    Akindele’s comments come in the wake of some actors and filmmakers openly admitting their limitations, including struggles with dancing to promote their movies.

    The actress expressed gratitude to her supporters, particularly for her project Behind the Scenes, saying her ability to stay true to herself has been key to her success.

  • Veekee James shares emotional pregnancy confirmation after year-long wait

    Veekee James shares emotional pregnancy confirmation after year-long wait

    Celebrity fashion designer Veekee James has revealed the emotional moment she and her husband, Femi Atere, discovered they were expecting their first child.

    The Nation had earlier reported that the designer announced her pregnancy on Tuesday through a video showing her and her husband cradling her baby bump.

    In a video shared on her Instagram page, James was seen taking a pregnancy test alongside her husband and broke down in tears after the result confirmed she was pregnant.

    The designer, who disclosed that she had been trying to conceive for about a year, expressed gratitude to God, describing Him as a “timely God who makes everything beautiful in His own time.”

    Read Also: Veekee James, husband announce pregnancy in ethereal video

    “Truly, God is not and will never be man! For us, we tried for a year; you might have tried for years, and you might have given up hope, but do not forget that we serve a timely God who makes everything beautiful in His own time, so that the Glory will be His to share with no man!”, she captioned the post.

    James also used the occasion to encourage others who may be struggling with fertility, urging them to hold on to faith, as she declared, “your testimony is already here.”

    “I am joining my faith with yours, that this year, as long as it pleases the Lord of Hosts, your testimony is already here! It is yours for the taking! Amen”, she added.

    The announcement has sparked an outpouring of congratulations from fans and fellow celebrities.

  • One dies, seven injured in Ibadan multiple-vehicle crash

    One dies, seven injured in Ibadan multiple-vehicle crash

    A yet-to-be-identified middle-aged woman has died following an early morning road accident in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The crash, which occurred at the Iwo Road end of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, also left no fewer than seven persons with varying degrees of injuries.

    At least three vehicles were involved in the accident, which sources attributed to brake failure. Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) identified the vehicles as a red Nissan Micra with registration number MNY 539 XN, a white tanker truck, and a commercial Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BBS 863 XA.

    Read Also: FRSC caution motorists on hazy weather, poor visibility

    It was gathered that the driver of one of the vehicles lost control, triggering multiple collisions. 

    The deceased, who was a passenger in the Nissan Micra, reportedly died at the scene, while other occupants of the vehicle sustained serious injuries.

    Sources said the remains of the victim had been deposited at a morgue, while the injured were receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. The Nissan Micra was severely damaged in the crash.

    The FRSC in Oyo State confirmed the incident.

    The accident caused heavy traffic congestion, as motorists travelling towards Iwo Road from within and outside the state were stranded for hours before the wreckage was eventually cleared.

  • FG flags off water, irrigation, flood control projects across Kano, Jigawa

    FG flags off water, irrigation, flood control projects across Kano, Jigawa

    The Federal Government has flagged off a series of water infrastructure, irrigation, flood control and human capital development projects across Kano and Jigawa States, reaffirming its commitment to food security, climate resilience and sustainable livelihood.

    The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, led the inauguration of key projects under the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), including the Bela Dam Project and a pilot Kaukau Drip Irrigation scheme in Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State.

    Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony for the Bela Dam in Bela Community, the Minister described the project as a major milestone in sustainable water management and agricultural development. 

    He explained that the multipurpose dam, with a storage capacity of 775,000 cubic metres, is designed to mitigate perennial flooding while supporting irrigation, domestic water supply, fisheries, livestock production and other agricultural activities.

    According to him, the dam will significantly improve livelihoods, boost food production, expand economic opportunities for the host community and strengthen climate resilience. He urged residents to support and protect the project to ensure long-term benefits.

    “As a nation, we can transform our water resources into powerful drivers of prosperity, food sufficiency and national development,” Utsev said.

    During the same visit, the Minister launched a pilot drip irrigation scheme at Kaukau and performed a symbolic planting of crops alongside the Managing Director of HJRBDA, Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, and technical directors from the Ministry, underscoring the Federal Government’s commitment to practical, results-driven agricultural interventions.

    Earlier in Kano State, Prof. Utsev commissioned a modern Conference and Training Centre at the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, describing it as a strategic facility for equipping youths and women with technical and practical skills for climate-smart and innovative agriculture.

    He said the centre was conceived as a hub for grooming a new generation of agripreneurs who would drive productivity, adopt modern technologies and contribute meaningfully to national development through job creation and self-reliance.

    “By empowering our youth and women with practical agricultural skills, we are strengthening the agricultural sector, creating jobs and promoting inclusive economic growth,” the Minister stated.

    Read Also: Flooding: Group to empower 40 Anambra farmers on solar processing, storage

    Graduating trainees at the centre received hands-on training in drip irrigation, hydroponics, greenhouse technology and the “Every Home a Garden” initiative.

    The Minister later proceeded to Jigawa State, where he flagged off the Jahun Drainage and Erosion Control Project in Jahun Local Government Area. 

    He said the intervention marked a decisive response to decades of erosion and flooding that had destroyed farmlands, disrupted livelihoods and threatened lives and property.

    He explained that beyond flood control, the project would enable the harnessing of water for productive agricultural use, supporting year-round farming and stable food production. 

    He called on the benefiting community to take ownership of the project and safeguard it for future generations.

    Representing the Executive Governor of Jigawa State, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Aminu Usman Gumel, commended the Federal Government for the intervention, noting that it would curb perennial flooding, improve living conditions and boost the local economy. He added that the project includes a youth training component in drip irrigation.

    The Managing Director of HJRBDA, Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister for their support, describing the projects as part of a holistic approach to modern irrigation, flood management and agricultural development.

    The project inauguration across both states were attended by senior officials of the Ministry, traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, women and farmers, with highlights including the graduation of youths trained in drip irrigation on rehabilitated lands.

  • IFC, NSIA boost cancer care with $154m lifeline

    IFC, NSIA boost cancer care with $154m lifeline

    The International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group, and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority have agreed to invest about $154.1 million to expand cancer treatment and modern diagnostic services for communities across Nigeria that currently lack access to quality healthcare.

    The project, which will be carried out through NSIA’s healthcare subsidiary, NSIA Advanced Medical Services Limited (MedServe), includes a major contribution from the IFC of about ₦14.2 billion, or $24.5 million, in long-term naira financing. 

    This marks the first time the IFC is supporting a healthcare project in Nigeria using this kind of local currency funding, which helps reduce the risk that comes from changes in foreign exchange rates.

    According to details of the partnership, the investment will lead to the establishment of more than a dozen modern diagnostic and treatment centres in different parts of the country. 

    These centres are expected to create about 800 direct jobs and provide specialised training for over 500 healthcare workers in areas such as cancer care and heart treatment.

    The goal of the project is to improve access to reliable and affordable diagnostic and oncology services, especially for people in low-income and underserved communities who often struggle to get timely medical attention.

    Under the arrangement, the IFC will provide naira-based financing to MedServe, with support from the International Development Association’s Private Sector Window Local Currency Facility. This structure allows the healthcare company to expand its facilities while avoiding the heavy burden that can come from borrowing in foreign currencies.

    Read Also: ABUAD partners Chinese firm on breast cancer treatment

    The expansion plan includes setting up diagnostic centres, radiotherapy-equipped cancer treatment facilities, and cardiac catheterisation laboratories in several states. 

    These centres will be fitted with modern medical equipment such as CT and MRI scanners, digital pathology laboratories, linear accelerators for cancer treatment, and advanced heart care machines.

    MedServe said its services are designed to be sustainable and affordable, with pricing that reflects the income levels of local communities, making it easier for low-income patients to access life-saving care.

    Speaking on the partnership, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, Aminu Umar-Sadiq, described the initiative as a major step towards building a stronger healthcare system in the country.

    “This partnership with IFC represents a significant milestone in NSIA’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem through sustainable, locally anchored investment solutions,” Umar-Sadiq said.

    “By deploying long-tenor naira financing, we are addressing critical infrastructure gaps while reducing foreign exchange risk and ensuring that quality diagnostic and cancer care services are accessible to underserved communities. MedServe’s expansion underscores our belief that commercially viable healthcare investments can deliver strong development impact while supporting national health priorities,” he added.

    The IFC Vice President for Africa, Ethiopis Tafara, said Nigeria’s growing challenge with non-communicable diseases presents an opportunity to bring in private sector funding in a way that also promotes fairness in access to healthcare.

    “Nigeria’s focus on addressing the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases presents a significant opportunity to deploy innovative financing mechanisms capable of mobilizing private capital at scale, while ensuring equitable access to quality care,” Tafara said.

    “This ambition is consistent with our broader vision for Africa, one where resilient health systems and inclusive growth reinforce each other to deliver long-term impact across the continent,” he added.

    The IFC said the investment supports Nigeria’s drive for Universal Health Coverage and fits into the World Bank Group’s Country Partnership Framework, as well as national programmes aimed at strengthening the healthcare value chain and attracting private investment into the health sector.

    Beyond funding, the IFC will also provide advisory support to help MedServe improve its operations. This includes guidance on patient safety, measuring how well low-income groups are being served, and meeting international green building standards.

    Construction of the new facilities is expected to continue through 2026, with the first centres projected to open in the second half of the year, bringing modern diagnostic and cancer care closer to communities that have long been underserved.

  • Uvwie monarch to unveil biography to mark 18th coronation anniversary

    Uvwie monarch to unveil biography to mark 18th coronation anniversary

    Effurun, headquarters of Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, will host activities next month as the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Emmanuel Ekemejewa Sideso, Abe I, unveils his biography to commemorate the 18th anniversary of his coronation.

    The biography, titled “Odyssey of Royalty: The Reign of Abe I, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom,” will be formally launched during a week-long series of events scheduled to commence on February 7. This was contained in a statement issued by the monarch’s media consultant, Chief Omafume Amurun.

    Prominent political and traditional leaders expected at the event include President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as well as lawmakers, ministers, traditional rulers, and other distinguished Nigerians.

    The ceremony will be chaired by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, while High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, will serve as chief launcher.

    The book will be reviewed by Professor Joe Abugu, SAN, while Chairman of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, will serve as chief host.

    Activities lined up for the anniversary include a 21-gun salute, conferment of chieftaincy titles, homage by Uvwie communities, the book launch on February 14, and a thanksgiving Mass on February 18 to conclude the celebration.

    The biography chronicles the reign of Abe I, highlighting his vision, leadership philosophy, and contributions to peace, stability, and development in Uvwie Kingdom. 

    Uvwie Kingdom, widely regarded as one of the most industrialised and strategic areas in Delta State, remains a key economic, cultural, and security hub in the South-South region, with Effurun often described as the “London of Urhoboland.”