The Nation Newspaper

Category: Discourse

  • India investor to boost Nigeria health care sector with $100m investment

    India investor to boost Nigeria health care sector with $100m investment

    Nigeria-India investment relations got a boost, yesterday, when Indian Origin Healthcare Group Padiyath Healthcare revealed  that it has earmarked  investment worth $100 million in the Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

    This disclosure was made by Padiyath Healthcare Chairman Dr. Hazeeb Rahman Padiyath, during an address by visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in Abuja.

    According to Padiyath, the investments when completed will enable Nigerians access world class hospital at affordable cost.

    He disclosed that already the company is set to commission a world-class  hospital, in Abuja as part of the long term investment drive of the India company, in the country.

    According to him the first one is the “Padiyath Mayfields Hospitals”, a 300-bed tertiary care hospital which is being constructed in Suncity estates, Galadimawa, Abuja,” adding that “When commissioned it will be Nigeria’s largest private sector hospital”.

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    He told the visiting India PM that the “hospital brings in advanced diagnostic equipments like 3T MRI. 256 Slice CT Scan Machine which will be the first of its kind in western Africa along with Cardiac cathlab, 24 Super speciality centers of excellence, 25 bedded Intensive care unit, Operation theatre in emergency department itself in addition to the Operation Theater complex in the 3rd floor which can be lifesaving in times of emergency”.

    He said the project will be ready for unveiling by February 2025.

    The India investor disclosed that the second Hospital Padiyath Cancare Hospitals which will also be domiciled in Abuja will be a 200-bed hospital world class cancer institute.

    “This center will be a full-fledged cancer hospital with equipments like Pet Scan, Linear accelerator & Gamma knife,” Dr. Padiyath said.

    The Group Padiyath healthcare is true Indian multinational healthcare provider with operations in India, middle east & Africa, the company boss said.

    The Africa expansions are spearheaded by Dr. Padiyath. It is part of his vision to provide quality affordable healthcare across the Africa maintaining the principles of Padiyath Healthcare which says “Technology -Technique -Touch”.

  • Old students donate furniture, reflective sign post to alma mater at 45

    Old students donate furniture, reflective sign post to alma mater at 45

    The Old Students Association of Orin High School, Orin Ekiti in Ido Osi Local Government of Ekiti State have donated furniture  and a reflective signpost to the school.

    They made the donation as part of activities marking the school’s 45th anniversary.

    During the two-day event, an award of excellence was presented to the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, an indigene of Orin Ekiti for her contributions to development of the school and community.

    Other beneficiaries are headmaster, Mr Ogunlade, best teacher, and outstanding pupil in 2023 WAEC examination.

    In a presentation, former Council Chair, an old boy,  Elder Benjamin Fatope, warned pupils against acts that could destroy their careers and bring disrepute to the school.

    He urged the pupils to work hard for excellence and take a cue from others who have excelled in their chosen careers.

    National President of the union, Evangelist Rotimi Ojo, said the old students would assist in infrastructure development of the school to enhance teaching and learning.

    He appealed to old students home and abroad to support the developmental projects initiated by the Alumni Association.

    Earlier, Chairman of the Publicity Committee, Elder Oluwatuyi Aroge, noted that the association would project the school to the world and making it compete favourably with others around the globe.

    The programme attracted old students, who used the event to reunite, reminisce on and strategise on how to support their school.

    The old students moved round town to sensitise members on the need to give their children sound education.

    Activities for the first day was rounded off with a novelty match

    Presenting the furniture on the second day, Ojo, said the donation was to give pupils a sense of belonging.

    He appreciated members who contributed to the project, and urged pupils and teachers to ensure proper maintenance.

    Mrs Aderiye, represented by former Executive Secretary of Ekiti SUBEB, Babafemi Jegede, thanked the association for the award, and hailed it for giving back to the school.

    Speaking on the reflective signpost, a pioneer student, Ben Fatope, said the project was conceived and executed by 1979-1984 set.

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    Other pioneer students at the event are Dayo Dada, director of Works at FMC, Ido Ekiti; Aroge, director of Primary Health Care and Health Secretary with Ekiti State Primary Health Care Agency; Mrs Susan Oludakinni nee Ilori; Femi Samuel; Mrs Funmilayo Alo; Makanjuola Michael; Kehinde Daramola; Mrs Olubunmi Ajayi nee Alasi; Theresa nee Omonijo; and Pius Daodu. They congratulated the awardees and urged them to continue to justify the confidence reposed in them.

    Chairmen of the Fundraising Committee, home and abroad, Akinola Bodunde and Dr. Kayode lge, hailed members for donating willingly and generously.

    “This milestone is not just a celebration of time, but a testament to the dedication, values, and commitment of everyone who was part of the journey

    “Over the years, our school has been a place where memories are made, knowledge is gained, and friendship formed. It has nurtured and inspired individuals, instilling in us the virtues of hard work, integrity, and resilience”

    He appealed to pupils to emulate these virtues.

    Other dignitaries present are permanent secretaries, retired executive secretaries, Area Education officers, community leaders, alumni, the academia and politicians.

  • The universities and the farmers

    The universities and the farmers

    Text of Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, University of Ibadan, Chief Bisi Akande at the institution’s 76th Foundation Day anniversary and 2024 Convocation

    Protocols:

    Naturally, Man is a most purposeful producer of his needs. Water and food are the most basic needs of man and his essential wants are food, shelter and clothing. Following scavenging, man discovered agriculture or farming as his first major occupation for the production of his needs. That is to say, man’s first main occupation has been farming specifically for the production of the foods he eats. Also, byproducts of agriculture provide the materials for the construction of his house, for the making of his clothing and the herbs for the treatments of his health challenges. Hence, man meets his basic needs from his efforts in farming.

    The regularity of man’s productivity in farming depends on the robustness of his health which, in turn, determines his strength and his energy to carry out his tasks as a farmer. The quality and the level of the working of man’s mind determines the type and the quantum of the yields of his products. The degree of the level of the development of man’s mind also determines the fashion and the sophistication of the tools he would fabricate for his farming. Here comes the impact of the standards and the quality of the types of his education.

    Primarily, for man, the object of production is consumption. Therefore, man is first and foremost the producer and the consumer. It is only when there are surpluses over and above his immediate needs that he keeps something apart for his secondary objective, which is to assist him in building the capital necessary for his future productions. In other words, it is after having enough for himself that man’s economic interests begin. It has been a well recognized fact, therefore, that man, as an economic activist, is supposed to be the initiator, the innovator, the accelerator, the investor, the producer, the consumer, the exchanger, the distributor and the creator of his own needs and wants and, also, of the tools he uses to achieve them.

    Nigerian peasant, representing some 80% of the population, still uses the farming tools consisting of the hoes and cutlasses which were fashioned in the shapes now variably prevalent in our different cultures since the global spread of iron roughly between the eighth and the fifth centuries before Christ. Any wonder, then, that the Nigerian Youths are not enthusiastic in undertaking the drudgery of using such archaic farm implements? And any wonder, therefore, that our people are now hungry and starving? And where are the impacts of the Nigerian educational systems, up to the University level, in all these deficits in the types of Nigerian farmers’ affordable tools and in the production innovations in agriculture that now make the farmers poverty ridden and the citizenry hungry?

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    But are we saying that there are so much disconnects between the Nigerian Universities and the Nigerian agriculture that our farmers are so incapable of feeding our nation? Just as the government collaborates with the investors to found computer villages in some cities, may I suggest that our educational institutions together with the investors should collaborate with every state to found farming-villages in every local government with a view to attracting our young graduates into agriculture? The multiplier effects would result in the innovative fabrication of modern farming implements, in the illustration of practical demonstrations of the essence of academic institutions in using sciences, technologies and management techniques for the promotion of plenteous nutritional agricultural yields and in the attractiveness of business investments in profitable agro-allied industries among the generality of our society.

    Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for being part of our University’s 76th Foundation Day Anniversary and of the 2024 Convocation Ceremonies; and, thank you for listening.

  • FAAN and Tinubu’s aviation reforms

    FAAN and Tinubu’s aviation reforms

    By Yakubu Dati

    Since she shattered the glass ceiling to emerge the first female Managing Director of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku has taken bold steps to mainstream the economic reforms of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration in the aviation sector.

    She introduced a number of initiatives that are bound to improve passenger traffic in the sector with accompanying increase in revenue; non-aeronautical revenue and overall positive performance that will  contribute a significant chunk to the the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) figure of N2.43 trillion internal revenue generated by the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in 2023.

    This she has done through re-engineering productivity in all the departments, enhancing efficiency of personnel through adequate training and deploying the right tools for service delivery in a critical sector like aviation.

    The Bola Tinubu administration has left no one in doubt that it is no longer going to be business as usual but that all sectors must rise to contribute their quota to the overall economy.

    It is in achieving this that Mrs Kuku has proven her capacity and competence to deliver and deep appreciation of the need to make Nigeria work by seamlessly keying into the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by mainstreaming safety in airports beyond just compliance to encompass financial, reputational, and operational advantages.

    As the helmsman of FAAN, she realized early enough that the onerous task of applying revenue from just two viable airports to service and operate 26 others across the length and breadth of the country was not sustainable.

    Being a financial wizkid with a Bsc in Finance and MBA in International Finance & Strategic Management from the University of Illinois and DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, respectively, she rolled her sleeves and applied her over two decades of remarkable career marked by strategic insight and innovative thinking into handling the situation.

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    Rather than allow things to drag, Kuku set out to diversify FAAN’s revenue streams by aiming to increase non-aeronautical income through the building of strategic partnerships and incentives to boost airport revenue generation.

    She quickly connected the dots between revenue and safety standards and thereafter embarked on massive manpower training to build safety standards.

    During her first week in office, she signed the reviewed FAAN Corporate Safety Policy that spelt out her commitment to accountability and responsibility to safety.

    In barely 11 months after assumption of duty as the Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Kuku walked the talk by clocking in about 2,000 man hours in training an unprecedented 3,219 number of staff and critical stakeholders across six safety-critical courses.

    The experienced technocrat prioritized airport safety as a multifaceted springboard to significantly contribute to passenger confidence, operational efficiency, compliance with regulations, economic growth, and the overall well-being of both travelers and staff.

     Kuku is creating the necessary foundation to reposition FAAN to ultimately contribute to a safer and more reliable flying experience in tandem with Minister Festus Keyamo’s master plan to standardise aviation infrastructure.

    As a team player, she has earned the respect and admiration of her management team who keyed into her policy of empowering staff and stakeholders with prerequisite training in adhering to procedures and technology in line with regulatory bodies like NCAA, ICAO, ACI and other sister agencies to enhance world class protocols based on the latest industry advancement and best practices.

    That wise, staff have benefitted from a curriculum of courses in comprehensive strategies and practices through  continuous training and safety education through ICAO mandatory programs including safety, security personnel, operations, and aerodrome fire-fighting.

    These trainings majorly focus on Airside Operations and Safety Compliance Training (AOSCT), Global Reporting Format (GRF), Aerodrome General Safety Awareness (AGSA) Course, emergency protocols, crisis management, and safety procedures.

    With the Airport being a hub for activities that facilitates global connections, courses were introduced in Runway Maintenance, Safety Management Systems (SMS), Safety Drills, Upgraded Infrastructure and Technology.

    To further boost its commitment to protecting human lives, securing infrastructure, and fostering confidence among travelers and employees alike, trainings were conducted in Reporting Systems, Foster a Safety Culture, Employee Engagement, Coordination and Communication, Public Information/Messaging, Regular Safety Audits and Assessments amongst others.

    Maintaining a safe Airport environment is a dynamic process that requires constant vigilance and a culture that encourages everyone, from frontline employees to senior leaders, to take ownership of safety standards, therefore Intensive training was conducted in Improving Runway and Taxiway Design, Implementation of Comprehensive Safety Management Systems.

    Aviation stakeholders have applauded Kuku’s dogged pursuit beyond compliance with standards, to boosting confidence of travelers and the airport community. The massive renovation of Terminal 1, popularly known as GAT from her lean resources has brought relief and comfort to passengers.

    She has also embarked on the reconstruction of the International Airport road; roads leading to the airside; as well as drainages.

    Surveillance systems are also being installed to boost safety and passenger confidence and comfort.

    Her recent initiative to think out of the box and successfully engage the Lagos State Government to partner in the construction and rehabilitation of roads within the airport vicinity to ease the stress of passengers has received high applause.

    She explained, “We understand that travelers trust us with their well-being, and this is the reason why every investment we make, every policy we put in place, is about ensuring safe and reliable travel for all.”

    Compliance with safety regulations reassures airlines, government bodies, and investors, fostering better relationships and support.

    It also encourages more travelers, which stimulates growth in tourism and related industries, ultimately improving its Internally Generated Revenue and contributing to the national purse!

    Kuku’s giant strides has not only received recognition in Nigeria with several awards in her kitty including FAAN being ranked among the Top 5 Most Improved Agencies in Nigeria by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), the global aviation industry is shifting its focus to Nigeria.

    The prestigious global body, Airport Council International (ACI ) honored the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria with two prestigious safety awards during her Africa Conference held in South Africa.

    Her eventual appointment into the Board of ACI, is a further affirmation of her standing as a global ambassador.

    These are no mean achievements awards in less than just one year in office.

    • Dati, a former General Manager, Corporate Affairs of FAAN writes from Abuja

  • Situating Dangote’s tantrums in the quest for a perfect downstream market

    Situating Dangote’s tantrums in the quest for a perfect downstream market

    By Tanimola Adedeji

    Nigeria and its citizens are currently going through enormous pains as a result of the quest to emplace as close to a perfect market as can be in the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry. Over the years, a number of factors distorted the market, chief of which was the fuel subsidy regime. With the big elephant out of the room, the process of recalibrating the next big factors of supply and price is wreaking havoc on the system with players pitching their tents on various sides in a bitter game of recriminations. At the centre of this game is Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and his multi-billion-dollar petroleum refinery.

    Since earlier in the year when the Dangote Refinery began to source feedstock for the plant to commence operations, Dangote has managed to cut a somewhat curious image for himself, the image of Esau as painted at Genesis 16:12 in the Bible: “This son of yours will be a wild man, as untamed as a wild donkey! He will raise his fist against everyone, and everyone will be against him. Yes, he will live in open hostility against all his relatives.” (NLT).

    Dangote has almost literally raised his fist against everyone in the industry. When he is not attacking the upstream regulator, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for not helping to guarantee crude oil supply to his plant, he is up in arms against the downstream regulator, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for granting licenses to marketers to import petroleum products. He is on record to have attacked the NNPC Ltd and the International Oil Companies for not selling crude oil to him. Lately he has shifted the battle to the marketers for not buying refined petroleum products from his refinery. He has dragged the NMDPRA and some marketers to court to stop them from importing petroleum products when his refinery has enough products in-country. He has accused the NMDPRA of lacking the capacity to certify the standard of products, which is quite unfortunate. We pray that the day does not come when the quality of his products will be called to question. If that day comes, it will be difficult to verify the standard of his own products since it will be difficult for the public to trust the regulator he has denigrated and he cannot be a judge in his own case!  

    In all these battles, Dangote comes across as someone who is not ready for a deregulated market. And this is quite baffling because one of the reasons cited by some of those who were granted licenses to build refineries but could not do so was that the regulated market regime made their projects unbankable as lenders raised questions about sustainability. A deregulated market ensures that both refiners and marketers sell at market-driven prices that guarantee a decent profit for business sustainability.

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    But as the market is in the process of reset into being a deregulated or perfect market, Dangote appears not to be comfortable with it. His tantrums manifesting in the form of battles with all other players in the industry are all geared towards manipulating the market reset process to create a market situation that suits and favours him. If not, what is the rationale behind his insistence that all marketers must willy-nilly buy from him? Is he willing to accept the direct opposite of his position which is that he must willy-nilly sell products to local marketers whether they can afford his price or not, and that he cannot export products until he satisfies the local market?

    That Dangote has set his eyes on running a monopoly in the downstream sector for a long time is not in doubt. Way back in 2019/2020 when the Petroleum Industry Bill was being debated in the National Assembly and his refinery had not got to the point of commissioning, he wanted the lawmakers to insert a clause in the law banning importation of petroleum products. When that didn’t fly because of the implication on the overall national energy security, he insisted that the clause be rephrased to read that only refineries owners should be allowed to import petroleum products if there is a shortfall in local production. So, his fixation on having a downstream market that is skewed in his favour is really nothing new. The method of achieving that is what has changed from benign to malevolent.

    The latest of his tactics is the spurious argument that Nigeria is the only oil producing country that keeps on importing petroleum products. This argument is not true as there are many oil producing countries that import products for a number of reasons. The reasons could range from refining capacity limitation to economic considerations and supply-demand mismatch. While not advocating a wholesale importation regime for Nigeria, and while it is good for us to develop local refining capacity, it is not economically wise to be stampeded into a decision of outright ban on importation, as Dangote wants Nigeria to do. That was the wisdom in the rejection of his proposals by the lawmakers in 2020. The lawmakers understood that any of a number of things could come up that could require that products be imported.

    In fact, a country like Saudi Arabia with more that 10 times Nigeria’s production capacity sometimes resort to product importation. Others like Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, Iran, Algeria, and Angola often import petroleum product despite their strong credentials in crude oil production. It is just like crude oil importation, many oil producing countries do import certain grades of crude oil to blend with theirs for refining in order to maximize the yield of certain products. The notion of self-sufficiency in matters of crude oil and refined products is actually very fluid and is better handled by regulatory agencies on the basis of as-the-need-arises and not on the basis of emotions.

    It is understandable that as a business man, Dangote wants to make as much money from his huge investment in the refinery as possible. But such aspiration is better realized on a sustainable basis in a fully deregulated market that is as close to a perfect market as possible. The competition that is enabled by such a market creates enormous efficiencies and benefits for both the producers and consumers.

    The market is on a reset mode. It is in the interest of everyone – refiners, marketers, retailers, and consumers – to allow the process to run to its logical conclusion where water would find its level. Throwing tantrums everyday like a spoilt child whose lollipop was taken away, accusing marketers of importing sub-standard products, and insisting that the regulator lacks capacity to certify the quality of products are wrong-headed strategies that could at best yield temporary results. Fortunately for the market and unfortunately for Dangote, majority of Nigerians see through the shenanigans and know exactly that he is fighting to establish a monopoly. However, the oil industry is a different kettle of fish altogether. Though the downstream may be local, it has international linkages that insulate it from such manipulations.

    It is a good thing that other countries are beginning to explore the possibility of patronizing his refinery. He should concentrate on beefing up production to service his growing customer base rather than short-circuit the ongoing market reset process.

    •Tanimola Adedeji, an energy market analyst, wrote in from Lagos.

  • Unpacking the 2024 Joint Annual Health Review meeting

    Unpacking the 2024 Joint Annual Health Review meeting

    “For the first time, we have fulfilled two major commitments: conducting this Joint Annual Review and presenting the State of Health Report for Nigeria. These reports symbolise our dedication to transparency, accountability, and progress. Governments have all contributed to this effort. Their dedication and resilience are at the heart of our healthcare system, and we continue to rely on their commitment to carry forward these foundational legacies. As we build on this legacy, we are reminded that our mission to deliver an efficient, equitable, and quality health system for all Nigerians would not be possible without the efforts of those who came before us. We stand on the shoulders of these giants in the health sector, learning from their experiences and carrying forward their vision for a healthier Nigeria,’’ – Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.

    This extract from the keynote speech of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate at the Sector-Wide Joint Annual Health Review meeting foregrounds the historic spectrum of the event.

    The Sector-Wide Joint Annual Health Review (JAR) meeting was held in Abuja from 6 to 8 November 2024. It was the first of its kind and provided a robust platform for the rigorous interrogation of challenges, evaluation of achievements, and the mapping of strategies and priorities for the health sector.

    In the course of the three-day event, groundbreaking initiatives, such as the Maternal and Newborn Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII), which offers free cesarean sections to all eligible Nigerian women meeting the established criteria, and the Nigeria Climate Change and Health Vulnerability and Adaptation (V&A) Assessment Report, were launched.

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    According to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the V&A Report provides essential insight into the impact of climate change on health across Nigeria. By identifying climate-related health risks, the Report supports the creation of a resilient health system capable of addressing the challenges posed by a changing environment, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable health security and the well-being of Nigerians.

    ‘’Another key outcome was the establishment of a dedicated Expert Working Group (EWG) focused on strengthening our national health data systems. The EWG will implement regular health mini-surveys, bridging the current five-year gap in data collection from the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Through timely and reliable data, the group will empower us to track progress, address emerging health threats, and make informed, data-driven decisions essential to the sector’s success,’’ the Ministry said.

    The Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII) has spurred interest and commendation since its launch. The reason is obvious. It is a transformative programme — innovative by design and novel in scale.

    Here are a few highlights of the initiative, which was launched on the second day of the meeting.

    The Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII) is a strategic action plan to reduce maternal mortality through intensified intervention suites along the supply and demand components in priority 172 local government areas across the country.

    Here, demand implies the desire and need for healthcare services related to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. It encompasses several dimensions, which include quality care, awareness and education, etc, while supply entails the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, resources, and products necessary for the care of pregnant women, new mothers, and their infants.

    Objectives of the MAMII strategy:

    Increase facility utilisation by 60%

    Increase delivery by skilled birth attendants by 60%

    Reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by 30%

    Key supply-side thrusts of interventions have been identified

    Training of 120,000 frontline healthcare worker

    Improving PHC functionality and expanding BHCPF PHCs to 17,600

    Deployment of MNH innovations (PPH bundle, calibrated drapes, MMS, etc.)

    Availability of responsive emergency management and referral systems, including sustainable health financing.

    One of the high points of the JAR meeting was the presentation by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) on the performance of key reforms and the strategic blueprint for 2024 – 2026. Of interest is the functionality level of the primary healthcare centres. The strategic objective remains: Every Nigerian has equitable access to quality PHC services they need through a system that they trust.

    There are levels to PHC functionality. By definition, partially functional implies, “the PHC has the potential to provide antenatal and immunisation services”. Functional level 1 — “capable of providing antenatal and immunisation services”, and functional level 2 — “Everything in place for a pregnant woman to deliver a baby safely 24/7”.

    BREAKDOWN OF FACILITIES BY FUNCTIONALITY AND ZONE

    N = 8,421 facilities across 37 states

    Total analysed facilities: North-Central (1,381), North-East (1,010), North-West (2,029), South-East (1,287), South-South (1,218), South-West (1,496)

    Partially functional: North-Central (138-10%), North-East (60-6%), North-West (470-23%), South-East (203-16%), South-South (212 -17%), South-West (106 – 7%)

    Functional L1: North-Central (953 – 69%), North-East (594 – 59%), North-West (1,071 – 53%), South-East (993 – 77%), South-South (775 – 64%), South-West (1,061 – 71%)

    Functional L2: North-Central (290 – 21%), North-East (356 – 35%), North-West (488-24%), South-East (91 – 7%), South-South (231 – 9%), South-West (329 – 22%)

    PHC REVITALISATION: PROGRESS AS OF OCTOBER 28, 2024

    1. Total facilities projected for revitalisation: 4,022; 377 are being funded from national sources; 200 are globally funded with 72 being solarized and a record of 3,37352 Impact / BHCPF for States2.

    2. Workplan & BOQ submitted: 3,384 and 360 are being funded from national sources with a record of 3,024 Impact / BHCPF for States2.          

    3. BOQ issued (no objection): 2,587 and 156 are being funded from national sources with a record of 2,587 Impact / BHCPF for States2.

    4. PHC revitalisation objection contracts awarded to vendors: 213 with a record of 57 Impact / BHCPF for States2    

    5. PHC revitalisation work commenced: 272; 227 from State Funds4 and 253 from the private sector.

    6. PHC revitalisation work commenced: 280; 45 from State Funds4 and 27 from the private sector.

    Citizens can now view PHCs in their communities to access quality primary health care and to provide feedback for continuous improvement.

    The launch of the Nigeria Climate Change and Health Vulnerability Assessment Report, which is in furtherance of building a resilient system that will address the impact of climate change on health, was another milestone of the JAR meeting. Professor Pate launched the report on the last day of the event.

    The Minister said the launch was a significant and proactive plan by the federal government to deal with the evolving perils of climate change on health.

    ‘’Climate change is a wicked problem. It is a wicked problem in the sense that it is complex, it is multi-perceptive. It interconnects with several other elements and, when we solve one, on another problem actually features. Whether it is in the injuries that we saw in Maiduguri and a few of other states this year or the flooding or in parts of Lagos state where we saw cholera outbreaks. Because of the rising water table, whether it is in the protracted cycle of transmission of malaria or the dengue fever that we saw in Sokoto a few months ago. Or flooding that destroys farmlands. So, this is a very complex issue,’’ he said.

    • Nwabufo is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Engagement

  • Okowa and EFCC: The facts, the fiction, and the fairy tale

    Okowa and EFCC: The facts, the fiction, and the fairy tale

    By Olisa Ifeajika

    We have observed the desperate attempt by some dubious elements and a section of the media to malign His Excellency, Senator, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the immediate past Governor of Delta State, over his recent invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). With few exceptions, the media reports and commentaries have been mostly sensational, mischievous, and gross misrepresentations and distortions of the facts of the matter. They fall far short of the journalistic standards of factual reporting, fairness, balance, and simple logic. Most of these reports are riddled with outright lies, wild conjectures, and unverifiable claims, with the unmistakable diabolical intent to beguile and incite the unsuspecting public against Dr Okowa. But you cannot pull down him whom God has lifted. Like previous failed attempts to drag Dr Okowa’s name in the mud, this renewed offensive against him by his traducers is an exercise in futility.

    The Facts of the Matter

    The first point that needs to be made is that the EFCC has not established any case against Dr Okowa. As is customary with the anti-graft agency, the former Governor was invited to answer questions relating to some petitions that were filed against him by some disgruntled elements. Upon his return from vacation, and as a man with a clear conscience, Dr Okowa proceeded to the EFCC office in Portharcourt as requested. The substance of the petitions was that Dr Okowa allegedly corruptly enriched himself and used state resources to acquire 80% stake in Premium Trust Bank. He was also alleged to have diverted state resources to build housing estates in Asaba and Abuja and two hotels in Asaba, for himself.

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    Governor Okowa cleared himself of those allegations as the estate in Abuja is owned by a public figure. The ex-Governor lives in his own private house in an estate in Asaba that is occupied by other residents who are home owners. Similarly, the owners of the hotels in Asaba are persons known to the public and the EFCC, while Okowa has zero financial interest in Premium Trust Bank. These are facts that are easily verifiable from the Corporate Affairs Commission and by virtue of the Freedom of Information Act.

    The allegation that the former Governor allegedly diverted N1.3 trillion oil derivation funds is as ludicrous as it is outlandish. This is just a rehash of the same spurious allegations that some malicious, myopic, vindictive, and prejudiced persons concocted while Governor Okowa was still in office. These haters simply latched on to the EFCC invitation to launch a well-orchestrated propaganda, using their hirelings and hack writers in a section of the media. It is obvious that these people, including their puppets in the media, are bereft of commonsense. Otherwise, how can anybody in his right mind allege that N1.3 trillion was diverted for personal use? Are we to believe that Okowa’s administration did not pay salaries or execute a single project in eight years? It will take an individual to appropriate an average of N16b every month for eight years to amass a whooping sum of N1.3 trillion as alleged.  The implication of such a scenario happening is that there will be no money to run the government or pay the salaries of the state’s almost 50,000 workforce. Prejudice is a terrible thing, and those caught in its web, often develop a warped sense of reasoning.

    For the avoidance of doubt and for the benefit of the public, we wish to bring to the fore some salient information from the audited accounts of the Delta State Government for the eight years that Okowa presided over the affairs of the state.

    Total Revenue (FAAC, IGR, Other receipts) = N2.65 trillion

    Salaries = N628.5bn

    Pensions/Contributory Pensions/Social Benefits = N141.22bn

    Overhead/Consolidated Revenue Charges = N489.83bn

    Grants/Contributions = 107.88bn

    DESOPADEC = N221.2bn

    Internal Loans Repayment/Public Debt Charges = N200.38bn

    FAAC Deductions for Loan Repayment = N150.63bn

    Total Capital Expenditure = N729.2bn

    Among the flagship projects executed by the Okowa administration include the Professor Chike Edozien Secretariat, which recently won the Nigerian Institute of Architects award for Most Iconic Corporate Building in Nigeria, the Ogheye Floating Market in Warri North LGA, the 19.7km Obotobo 1 –Obotobo 11 – Sokebolou – Yokri coastal road in Burutu LGA, Maryam Babangida Film Village and Leisure Park Asaba, Koka Flyover in Asaba, and Asaba Storm Water Drainage. The Warri Storm Water Drainage project, designed to tackle the perennial flooding in Warri and environs, was at advanced stage by the time Okowa left office on May 29, 2023.

    In road infrastructure, the Okowa administration constructed over 2,000 kilometres of roads (including bridges) and 1,400 kilometres of drains. The administration established three new universities and six model technical colleges that have remained functional. Of course, there was the novel youth entrepreneurship development programmes of the Okowa administration that saw thousands of youths become small business owners and employers of labour. As a result, Delta was ranked the Best State in Human Capital Development in the 2017 states peer review by the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria. Furthermore, Delta State under his watch enjoyed peace and security.

    UTM INVESTMENT

    The insinuation that the state government’s investment in the first Floating Liquified Natural Gas project promoted by UTM, a private indigenous company in the oil and gas sector, is a phantom project is at best laughable and at worst disingenuous. As a state rich in oil and gas, the administration of Okowa saw a viable opportunity in the project and, upon approval by the Delta State Executive Council and the House of Assembly, purchased equity in the company with N42.05b in two tranches of five percent and three percent. The authenticity of this project is evidenced by the signing of the Shareholders’ Agreement between UTM, NNPC limited, and the Delta State Government on December 19, 2023. Today, the state government’s investment has appreciated to at least N190.85 billion underscoring the wisdom and foresight of the Okowa administration.

    CONCLUSION

    It bears restating that Dr Okowa has nothing to hide. His governance of Delta State was marked by fiscal discipline, prudent management of resources, and excellent service delivery.  As a matter of fact, the state won World Bank awards in Overall State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability Programme (All DLIs), Fiscal Transparency and Accountability, Efficiency of Public Expenditure, and Debt Sustainability. Dr Okowa is a man of unassailable integrity and we welcome any honest attempt to investigate his eight-year tenure as we believe it will vindicate his exemplary stewardship of the state.

    We know that the current campaign of calumny against Okowa is at the behest of unscrupulous politicians who see him as the biggest threat to their 2027 political aspirations. Instead of engaging in lies and propaganda, we urge these persons to work at winning the hearts and confidence of the people. Power resides in the electorate and they are the ones who determine who is to govern or represent them.

    Finally, we urge our media practitioners to always abide by the ethics of the profession. They should not allow themselves to continue to be used by desperate power mongers whose stock-in-trade is to engage in political subterfuge, stoke the fires of hatred, and foment crisis in the polity.

    • Ifeajika was Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okowa (2019-2023)

  • ‘Why Ondo should elect Aiyedatiwa’

    ‘Why Ondo should elect Aiyedatiwa’

    By Olatunbosun Oladimeji

    The people of Ondo will have another opportunity to decide who will preside over the state in the next four years from the Alagbaka Government House on Saturday, 16 November.

    As recently indicated by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, interests are very high in the election with over 50, 000 new Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs collected. With the election just a few days away, the candidates have upped their campaigns.

     As usual, some of the hitherto obscure candidates on the ballot are stepping up to make outlandish claims, promising to ‘build bridges where there is no water’ with the intention of bamboozling the electorate.

    One of their strategies  was a blackmail scheme  orchestrated through a video clip that was recently released to the public domain. The evil the video clip could have done to the robe of the newly discovered stylish dancing governor was averted when nothing to show his look and voice to the personality in the clip.   

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     In the past and now, it’s obvious that the governor has been receiving accolades from the public due to his outstanding performance in office. Notably, on Sunday, November 2, the governor delivered a spectacular performance at the Channel TV debate, moderated by renowned journalist Seun Okinbaloye, of which the two major candidates in the Ondo governorship election participated.

    Looking into the micro and macro of the governorship of the November 16 election,

    some of the political analysts have said only two candidates out of the lot who will be on the ballot have the chance to emerge as the winner when the outcome of the November 16 poll is declared. But I think such analysts are generous and probably, wanted to portray the election as still very open or not attune with the situation on ground. 

    A standing glaring scene came open with the direct open firing punches from the arch rival, Agboola Ajayi, through the opportunity he had with Channel TV debate when Ayedatiwa laughed him off with all the arsenals in his kits when he said to Alfred Agboola Ajayi to stop breeding fake datas and rot news sourcing of the Ondo State government which he knows nothing about. That might be the last punch expected to stop the strongest of the opposition in the gubernatorial election.

    But for me, the choice for the people of Ondo State is clear and unambiguous – for the continued progress  and well -being of our dear state, every thumbprint on the ballot should go to Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the flag bearer of All Progressives Congress (APC) and the incumbent occupier of Alagbaka Government House.

    And I know that so many people in Ondo State have realised this fact and this was the reason for the massive defection of leaders in the opposition parties to the APC ahead of the election.

    Such defections were in realisation of the fact that the other option not only portends danger, it will be a reward for a man whose only claim to fame was disloyalty.

    But the less said about him and his dead on arrival ambition, the better. Indeed, to me, he is a distraction not worth dwelling on at this critical time when the people of the state are faced with the task of determining the future of Ondo State.

    Rather, my aim in this article is to impress our people why Aiyedatiwa should be kept in office to continue his many ‘Lucky Strides’ on Saturday, November 16.

     Since he took over leadership of our state earlier this year following the unfortunate demise of his boss, Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu,  Aiyedatiwa had initiated projects and embarked on initiatives designed to boost the social economic fortunes of Ondo State across various sectors. Continuing on the footsteps of his late boss, Aiyedatiwa has embarked on projects designed to make a difference in the lives of the people.

    The good news is that the generality of the people of the state appreciate these lucky strides, hence the commendations and the huge turnout at the APC campaign rallies as Aiyedatiwa goes around the state soliciting for the support of the people for a fresh mandate.  

    The massive defection of chieftains of opposition parties to the APC while pledging to ensure that Aiyedatiwa emerges winner of the November 16 election is further proof that the generality of the people realised the significance of letting the lucky strides continue for more years.       

    While there have been lucky strides in many areas, in this write up, we will focus on the massive rehabilitation of roads across the state with many of the projects completed and others nearing completion by the Governor. 

    Some of these projects include the  Oda road dualisation project nearing completion, the Onyearugbulem-Irese flyover in Akure,  the 15 km Oda Cocoa Board road in Oda town, the 3.5km Ebute Ipare road in Ilaje,  11.9km, the 6km   road , in Housing Estate, Otapete-Owo, the 6 km Iselu to Isuada-Owo road, the Omolege-Agunbiade road in Owo,  and the 10.9km Idanre-Obajare Road in Idanre area of the state.

    Also, projects like the Oda road dualisation, Ijoka road dualization and the Irese/Shagari Flyover in Akure, Owo dualization, Igoba road construction, etc are getting attention while approval has been given for the rehabilitation of 60km of selected roads across the state with asphalt-overlay. And as part of the bid to stop incessant accidents in Akungba-Akoko in Akoko South West local government area of the state, Aiyedatiwa has finalised plans for the dualisation of the road that runs from the town through the frontage of the main gate of the Adekunle Ajasin University.

    Also, the contract has been awarded for the construction of 28 km Iyansan-Akotogbo-Iju-Osun road in the Irele local government area to connect Ondo Free Trade Zone with Edo State and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway route in the state. 

    In the same vein, the construction of many rural roads have been initiated by Aiyedatiwa across the three senatorial districts in the state for development of grassroots working through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAMP).

    Outlets roads leading to farmsteads and urban areas in Owo are graded for easier access to farming and transportation of foods and goods to the general public domain and the people.

     In all, about 700 Kilometres of rural roads will be constructed across all the 18 Local Government Areas of the State. Of course, to make the roads work more pronounced, this will be complimented by  constructions of nine of Agro-Logistics Centers (ALCs) designed to boost the rural economy.

    Significantly, Aiyedatiwa’s consistent payment of counterpart funds for RAAMP, in line with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the World Bank and the French Development Agency made the construction of the roads possible. 

    Speaking while flagging off the 3.5km Ebute Ipare-oke rural road project in Ilaje local government area, Ondo southern senatorial district, Aiyedatiwa said his administration’s focus on the infrastructure projects, especially road constructions and rehabilitation, was to transform the rural areas.

     According to him, the new roads would help address the economic gap between the rural and urban areas by facilitating smoother transportation and creating opportunities for the local farmers. 

    No doubt, Ondo State is set to witness the significant turnaround in the areas of roads and other infrastructure developments in the next four years. 

    There are revolutionary developments going on in the education, health, agriculture, development of human capital and others that will form the subject of our subsequent article ahead of the election. The intention was to stop the obvious attempt by buccaneers to deceive our people.

    Like they say, morning shows the day, the signs are very positive and this is why no other person other than Aiyedatiwa and the broom symbol of his party deserve your thumbprints on Saturday, November 16. 

    • Oladimeji, a writer, political analyst and activist was a former Senior Special Assistant on Publications to the late Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu.

  • Tunde Bakare: Activist cleric, politician at 70

    Tunde Bakare: Activist cleric, politician at 70

    By Dr. Segun Oshinaga

    PTB, as those of us who firmly believe in his national assignment call Pastor Tunde Bakare, is a paragon of public morality. His involvement in politics since General Muhammadu Buhari nominated him as his Vice- Presidential candidate is a study in how a believer can and should practice ‘contact without contamination, which he preaches and practices. His legendary feat as a strict and biblically accurate pastor and teacher is well known. His no-nonsense intolerance for any form or shape of extra biblical practice in the Church has caused very serious public fight within the Body of Christ, for which he is unapologetic.

    Most Christians who got involved in politics get lost to the filth of corruption. PTB was the ONLY believer who participated in the 2023 presidential election who didn’t give any delegate a dime. There were other believers who paid bribes of several billions to delegates and still lost. His contribution to Christian values in Nigerian politics is unparalleled.

    Let me lay out a few specific examples:

    In 1991 or 1992, somebody sent a green Mercedes Benz 300 or 500 (popularly called Shagari Model in those days) as a gift to him at the then Latter Rain Assembly, Akilo Street, Ikeja. I visited him one day and saw the car covered where it was parked. When I asked why he was not using it, his response was this: ‘I need to meet the person who sent it and ask him where he got the money from.’ The sender got angry and said it wasn’t his business where he got his money. PTB had the car returned. Later, the man was caught carrying drugs.

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    2. When his wife, the one we fondly called Mrs. B, turned 50, 14 years ago, the Governor of Ogun State who has been his friend since secondary school days donated some money at the birthday party at Sheraton Hotel, Lagos. PTB asked him publicly if the money was from his personal account or public purse. It was only accepted when the Governor announced that it was his personal money.

    When Citadel’s construction stated, PTB’s friend, President Muhammadu Buhari, donated N5M. PTB asked him if the money was from his pocket or taken from the public purse. Buhari was not amused. He promptly replied: ‘Pastor, I can personally afford this.’ PTB made the contribution public in Church along with their banters.

    When PTB turned 60 years in 2014, somebody in the Villa sent him a brand new 2015 Rolls Royce. He asked those who brought it: ‘Is this a gift any Nigerian who clocks 60 gets? They said no. ‘How do I justify such gift from the government?’ They took back their gift

    Just before the 2015 elections, a bag with $850,000 dollars cash was hauled into his presidential Suite at Transcorp Hotel, Abuja. This was when all kinds of people, including religious leaders, Christians and Muslims; traditional rulers across the nation were receiving such dollar gifts. He turned it down.

    During the 2023 primaries of the APC, there was dollar rain before, during and after the exercise at the Eagle Square. Men were bought like fowls and goats in the market. Only PTB didn’t bribe any delegate or trade his candidature. Others, including those that were notable believers paid out hundreds of millions of dollars to buy delegates. Some who traded their candidature and publicly announced they were stepping down were alleged to have received as much as $2M dollars each.

    PTB stood up on that platform and announced he was not stepping down but stepping up.

    It’s normal in our clime to use proximity to power for personal profit. Nothing particularly wrong if done properly. Till the day President Muhammadu Buhari left office, he lamented that PTB has not personally benefited from any government deal or largesse. About two years before the expiration of his presidency, the President attempted to give his friend a gift. PTB had just arrived Abuja. He came from Lagos with his lawyer, Tope Adebayo. Only the three of us were there that day. Not long afterwards, his phone rang. It was from Tunde Sabiu, the President’s nephew and Personal Assistant. He said the President had something for PTB. PTB sent his lawyer. Tope came back with an envelope. It was an offer of an oil block. Many would have jumped at it calling it divine supply. PTB went back to see his friend, the President to thank him for the offer. And then, he told him: ‘Thank you Mr. President but I cannot accept this gift. It will spoil my brand. Oil block is a national treasure and if I get it just because I’m the President’s friend, then it becomes morally indefensible. Thanks but no thanks.’

    PTB has demonstrated beyond measure that he is a man of conviction of steel. There are more than two dozen incidents like this but each time, he overcame; seeing them as test of his character and his readiness to be a leader without greed and covetousness.

    Not a few people have wondered why he combines his pastoral calling with political activism. To some, these roles are mutually exclusive. In holding this view, the assumption is that pastoral work is a holy calling while politics is a vocation for sinners.

    Truth be told, PTB is not a politician in the conventional traditional sense. PTB is a nation builder who is deploying the tool of politics as a means to achieve an end; an end which includes the liberation from hunger, provision of infrastructure, and security of life and property.

    The bane of politics in Nigeria is selfishness and greed. Politics is often a racket, not different from gangsterism with money making as sole objective. What we have presently in Nigeria are merchants pretending to be leaders. We have raiders holding political offices throughout the length and breadth of the Nigeria landscape. To the contrary, PTB is not driven by the mundane or compulsive material acquisition at public expense. Rather, PTB is driven by the vision of how better Nigeria can become. And this is what informs his common mantra ‘Nigeria will work in my life time.’

    PTB’s patriotism didn’t start with the Save Nigeria Group; although SNG became a veritable and potent vehicle for concrete visible action. Since the early 90s, PTB has been a watchman for the Nigerian nation, preaching, prophesying, praying and rallying many towards the Nigerian cause. He is a man uniquely burdened for Nigeria. Hardly can he finish a message without a mention of the rot in the land and proffering solutions. The truth is that PTB is not your ordinary do-gooder, political activist or politician. The uniqueness of his intervention is that he is acutely aware of his sense of destiny in being an active participant in making Nigeria a nation that will be blessed to become the envy of other nations.

    Perhaps, I need to share how I came about this conviction. The year was 1991 and the venue was the church office at The Latter Rain Assembly. PTB has always been a gracious host. He offered me lunch that was delivered from ‘Pintos’ on Allen Avenue after which he saw me off to my car. Just as he turned back to return to the office, the Lord opened my eyes and mind to have a glimpse into the future. By the way, this is a gift that the Lord gives me occasionally. In this state, I saw PTB helping to fix a broken down nation. I called him back and told him what I saw. Of course, he was amazed. He turned and walked into his office. I am persuaded that we are entering that season.

    One distinguishing feature of leadership is selflessness. Unfortunately, this is oftentimes lacking within the political class. This virtue marks PTB out. When he was nominated to the 2014 national conference, he served the nation at his own expense. He was one of the few who refused the fat cheques that the government offered. Virtually all politicians are driven by ambition of ‘I want to be this or that.’ What drives GBB (Gbolahan Babatunde Bakare) as his precious wife, Mrs. B. (Layide Bakare) fondly calls him, is not ambition; not at all. Individuals driven by ambition are often slaves to their vanities and egos.

    I completely, unequivocally and intentionally trust that God will perfect all He has put in His servant’s heart for our dear and great nation. Hear PTB shout this daily – Nigeria shall be SAVED. Nigeria shall be CHANGED. Nigeria shall be GREAT.

    May his prophecy for our nation come true in our lifetime and may we all be partakers of Nigeria’s great and illustrious future.

     • Oshinaga is the President of Inspirational Global Network and long term close confidant of Pastor Tunde Bakare

  • Beyond profits, Kyari-led NNPCL gives back, uplift Nigerians

    Beyond profits, Kyari-led NNPCL gives back, uplift Nigerians

    By Ademola Bankole

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, as a public company is of critical interest to Nigerians. In recent times, following the removal of the petrol subsidy, the national oil corporation leadership has come under intense criticism, following issues that arose as a fallout of the government decision to save the nation from further hemorrhage by plugging the wastes and fraud of the subsidy regimes.

    While many, out of ignorance, accuse the leadership of the NNPCL for doing little, the well-oiled smear-campaign set in motion by fraudulent petrol cartel, who had fleeced the nation of billions of dollars under the opaque subsidy scheme, were even more voracious. However, despite the orchestrated campaign of calumny against the NNPCL Chief, Kyari remained on top of his game, expanding exciting energy infrastructure, enabling other sustainable energy options, like the Compressed Natural Gas, CNG among others, above all, the company under his leadership is not just fixated on swelling the bottom line, and making the company a continuous thriving going concerns. NNPCL is also giving up to distraught Nigerians, and communities through various humanitarian endeavors, using the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR.

    In a historic step towards cancer prevention, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPC Ltd), through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm, the NNPC Foundation, has embarked on an initiative that underscores its commitment to the health and well-being of Nigerians. The Cancer Awareness and ZSX Screening Campaign was a free, nationwide initiative that aims to provide cancer screening, health education, and consultations, especially for the underserved. The campaign reflects NNPC Ltd’s commitment to social responsibility, addressing Nigeria’s rising cancer crisis and showing the company’s dedication to a healthier, more equitable future.

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    The intervention became extremely important as cancer remains one of the most serious health threats in Nigeria, with over 79,000 cancer-related deaths each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The most common cancers affecting Nigerians include breast and cervical cancer among women, and prostate and liver cancer among men. Despite these alarming statistics, access to early detection resources remains a significant challenge, particularly for the economically marginalized Nigerians, particularly those living in the rural areas. The NNPC Foundation’s Cancer Awareness and ZSX Screening Campaign takes a vital step in addressing this gap.

    Driven by its commitment to promoting healthcare equity, NNPC Ltd has leveraged its resources and reach to address this health crisis directly. The campaign reflects the vision of a company that sees the health of its people as an integral part of national development. By focusing on early detection, the initiative not only aims to save lives but also to educate the public on the importance of preventive healthcare and early cancer detection.

    The Cancer Awareness and ZSX Screening Campaign, aims to make cancer screenings accessible to approximately 3,000 individuals across Nigeria. The initiative will establish screening centers in six states—Kaduna, Rivers, Ondo, Benue, Imo, and Gombe—strategically covering each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This expansive reach is emblematic of NNPC Ltd’s dedication to inclusivity and equity, making screenings accessible to people in both urban centers and rural areas.

    Ms. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation, emphasized that this initiative is about more than just medical check-ups; it’s about saving lives and creating a healthier Nigeria. “The fight against cancer requires a collective effort and a commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare. This campaign is about more than just screening; it’s about saving lives, building awareness, and creating pathways to preventive care for Nigerians who need it most,” she said. Her words resonate with NNPC Ltd’s broader mission to ensure every Nigerian, regardless of socioeconomic status, has access to quality healthcare.

    Over the years, NNPC Ltd has demonstrated a deep commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), addressing critical issues that extend beyond its primary focus in the energy sector. The NNPC Foundation, as the CSR arm, has championed various projects that tackle healthcare, education, community development, and more. The Cancer Awareness and ZSX Screening Campaign reflects NNPC Ltd’s broader CSR philosophy, emphasizing the idea that corporate success should be aligned with societal benefit.

    By addressing healthcare inequities in Nigeria, the NNPC Foundation is setting an example for other corporations. This commitment to healthcare shows the far-reaching potential of CSR, going beyond traditional charitable donations and engaging in sustainable, impactful projects that address urgent societal needs. NNPC Ltd’s initiative is not only a step towards a healthier Nigeria but also a testament to the company’s belief that the private sector has a vital role in national development.

    NNPC Ltd’s Cancer Awareness and ZSX Screening Campaign is a groundbreaking effort that embodies the company’s commitment to the well-being of Nigerians. The campaign serves as a beacon of hope for individuals who may otherwise lack access to essential health services, offering them a chance at early detection and, potentially, a longer life.

    Through this initiative, NNPC Ltd is doing more than addressing Nigeria’s cancer crisis; it is laying the foundation for a healthier, more equitable future. This campaign is a powerful reminder that corporate responsibility, when driven by genuine commitment to social good, can create transformative change. As NNPC Ltd continues to champion health initiatives and lead by example, the future looks brighter for the people of Nigeria.

    In the same vein, the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC JV), operator of the NNPC Limited, SPDC, TotalEnergies and Nigerian Agip Oil Company Joint Venture, has announced the donation of $1 million to provide comfort for  over half a million people displaced in flood impacted communities of Borno.

    Disclosing the monumental plan, the Managing Director, SPDC, and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Osagie Okunbor, said the donation would go into the procurement and distribution of relief materials and medical supplies for displaced residents who are now in urgent need of critical aid,

    He said, “We consider providing this support to be of necessity to demonstrate our commitment to our society and the duty of care to our people. It expresses our deep concern for the victims of the devastating floods in Borno State,” Okunbor said.

    •Bankole writes from Abuja