The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • A make or mar year

    A make or mar year

    Sir: The first 18 months of Bola Tinubu’s presidency have been characterized by tough but necessary decisions.  From the removal of fuel subsidies to currency devaluation and tax reforms, his administration has repeatedly emphasized the necessity of these measures to stabilize and grow the economy. However, these policies have come at a high cost to ordinary Nigerians, who have had to contend with high inflation and economic hardship. The year 2025 is pivotal because it is when the promised dividends of these reforms are expected to start materializing.

    As Vladmir Lenin famously observed, every society is three meals away from chaos. This underscores the critical importance of food affordability, a priority that will undoubtedly dominate the expectations of Nigerians in 2025!

    Veriv Africa, a data insights firm, in its 2025 macroeconomic outlook report, has projected that economic growth in 2025 is expected to be sluggish and marginal. While this is not what most Nigerians want to hear, the report highlights the urgency of addressing surmountable obstacles to accelerated growth.

    As part of its policy recommendations for 2025, Veriv Africa underscores the importance of increased investment in agriculture. However, for such investments to yield tangible results, security challenges must be tackled head-on. The fight against terrorism and banditry must take centre stage to enable farmers to return to their fields and contribute to local food production, which is essential for curbing inflation and improving food security.

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    It also warns that insecurity poses a multifaceted threat -disrupting productivity across the energy sector, discouraging foreign investment, and stifling growth in the non-oil sectors. Thus, to mitigate these challenges, all tiers of government must intensify efforts to curb insecurity.

    Equally critical is the zero duty on some food importation which has long been proposed. It’s time to move from rhetoric to action!  It needs to start yesterday considering the pressing need for imported food supplies to supplement local production.

    It will also make sense if governments at all levels actively explore subsidized transport schemes to ease the burden on citizens. The CNG initiative, in particular, must be scaled up significantly. Deploying more CNG buses for mass transit is essential at this point.

    Lastly, the governors need to show workings, what with the spike in FAAC allocations over these months! With increased revenues at their disposal, governors have no excuse not to deliver development to their people.

    If Nigerians begin to feel a tangible improvement in their quality of life through lower prices, and increased economic opportunities then the administration’s narrative of “tough but necessary” reforms will gain credibility. Conversely, a lack of visible progress could erode public trust.

    •Chiechefulam Ikebuiro,chiechefulamikebuiro@gmail.com

  • Addressing Bauchi’s real priorities

    Addressing Bauchi’s real priorities

    Sir: Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent introduction of the Bauchi State Road Traffic Agency (BAROTA) has sparked mixed reactions across the state. While improving road safety is commendable, one cannot ignore the glaring disconnect between this initiative and the pressing needs of Bauchi’s citizens. In a state grappling with severe economic challenges, one must question the necessity of such a project at this time.

    Bauchi State is currently facing harsh economic realities. Inflation has skyrocketed, and the cost of living has become unbearable for many. A large number of residents now resort to trekking as a more affordable alternative to vehicular transportation. The daily hustle and bustle on Bauchi roads pale in comparison to the stories of hardship unfolding within households.

    Statistics and personal observations confirm that road accidents within Bauchi city are minimal — perhaps fewer than five in an entire week. This raises the question: why prioritize a traffic management agency in a state where vehicular movement is significantly reduced due to widespread poverty?

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    Education remains the foundation of any society striving for progress. Unfortunately, Bauchi’s education sector is in shambles. Public schools across the state are in deplorable conditions — from dilapidated classrooms to inadequate learning materials. Education is the key to societal development, yet this administration has failed to address this fundamental sector.

    For a community to thrive, it needs a well-educated populace armed with knowledge and values to build a prosperous future. The current government, however, has shown little interest in improving the learning environment. Instead, public schools are left to decay, depriving students of the basic tools they need to succeed.

    The health sector in Bauchi State paints an equally grim picture. Hospitals are underfunded, health workers are underpaid, and basic healthcare services remain inaccessible to many. Complaints about delayed or unpaid salaries among health workers are rampant, reflecting a lack of commitment to this critical sector.

    Moreover, academic institutions have been forced to go on strike due to unmet demands, further hindering the state’s development. A functional health system is essential for a thriving society, yet the administration has shown minimal progress in addressing this urgent need.

    While infrastructure projects and agencies like BAROTA may have their place, they cannot replace the need for fundamental human development. The Bauchi State government must focus on improving the basic necessities of life for its citizens. Priorities should include agriculture. Farmers need to be empowered with subsidies, modern equipment, and training to boost food production and combat hunger.

    Also in education, the state needs investment in public schools, adequate motivation for teachers, and ensuring students have access to quality learning environments.

    In the healthcare segment, the state government needs to address salary issues for health workers, upgrade medical facilities, and make healthcare services affordable and accessible.

    Leadership is about making difficult but necessary decisions to uplift the people. While the Bala Mohammed administration has undertaken various projects, many of them fail to address the core challenges facing the people of Bauchi State.

    This is a call for the government to re-evaluate its priorities. The citizens deserve a government that places their welfare at the forefront of its agenda. Addressing these fundamental issues is not just a matter of governance but of humanity.

    Bauchi State can only achieve meaningful progress when its leadership prioritizes human development. Until then, initiatives like BAROTA will remain distractions from the real work that needs to be done.

    •Yasir Shehu Adam, (Dan Liman)Bauchi.

  • Re-awakening grassroots development

    Re-awakening grassroots development

    Sir: Post-independence, Nigeria came close to achieving real progress, especially through its regional governments. The democratic system practiced during this era is considered one of the best the country has known. In particular, the Southwest witnessed tremendous development. For instance, it provided quality water solutions across the states, and to this day, state-run water boards in places like Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos continue to operate effectively. Many households still rely on these state-run systems, which are cheaper to maintain compared to private boreholes.

    The Southwest was also one of the largest revenue earners in the country, thanks to its thriving cocoa and other agricultural exports. Cocoa, in particular, was a major foreign exchange earner for Nigeria in the 1950s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. By 1970, Nigeria was the second-largest cocoa producer in the world. Unfortunately, the shift to oil exploration in the 1970s and ‘80s led to the neglect of cocoa production, which saw a significant decline in the country’s share of the global market. By 2010, cocoa production accounted for only 0.3% of Nigeria’s agricultural GDP.

    Today, state engagement and communication are often limited to the state capitals, leaving many citizens across the state without a voice. For example, in Ibadan, the state capital of Oyo, state engagements are typically held, but only political party members are allowed to ask questions. This creates a disconnect, making it difficult for the governor to understand the issues faced by people in other cities and towns, as they have no direct platform to communicate with the state’s leadership.

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     This inefficiency has been a hallmark of governance in Nigeria since the Second Republic. During election campaigns, gubernatorial candidates make sure to visit every corner of the state, sometimes reaching even the smallest wards. However, once they are elected, these same leaders often limit their travels to the state capital or, at best, make brief visits to commission projects, which usually take no more than two hours. These short trips provide little opportunity for the leaders to engage with the people or understand their real issues. Some commissioners and aides are even known to take the fastest routes to avoid underdeveloped areas, perpetuating neglect in many parts of the state.

    One of the fundamental drivers of development in any country is the efficient operation of local government councils. However, this has not been the case in many Nigerian states. For instance, in towns like Ondo in Ondo State and Oyo in Oyo State, the presence of local government governance is nearly invisible. Successive state governors have crippled local government financial activities due to an over-reliance on allocations for debt servicing, corruption, and unnecessary state government projects. This has led to poor performance by appointed caretaker committees, further undermining the effectiveness of local governance.

     In contrast, the progress seen in Lagos State and Kaduna is remarkable, and it’s clear that visionary leadership can lead to meaningful local development. Any forward-thinking governor should take note of these successes, yet many ignore the progress being made in these areas.

    In contrast, some states in the Southwest, particularly Oyo State, continue to hinder regional progress. The current governor has refused to implement measures that would allow for the full development of local governments. A visit to regions like Ogbomoso, Oyo, and Oke-Ogun reveals the neglect and lack of attention these areas have suffered. With elections less than two years away, political parties will be canvassing for votes with promises of transformative agendas. Citizens must rise above party affiliation, religion, or birthplace when choosing their leaders. It is time for the people of Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti, Osun, and other states to demand leaders who have shown compassion, vision, and a clear policy for the future, regardless of political affiliation.

    Fortunately, there is now progress at the federal level with the creation of regional developmental commissions, recently signed into law by the president. This bold move has the potential to bring about positive change. However, for these reforms to have a lasting impact, the local government must function effectively. Only then can Nigeria experience the kind of progressive change seen in first-world nations.

    Oguntoye Opeyemi,<oguntoyeopeyemij@yahoo.com>

  • Zulum: A promise fulfilled

    Zulum: A promise fulfilled

    SIR: I am compelled to express my admiration for the exemplary leadership demonstrated by Borno State governor, Babagana Umara Zulum. His recent approval of N8 billion to clear the backlog of liabilities in pensions and gratuities for retired primary school teachers and other civil servants is a testament to his commitment to the welfare of his citizens.

    This gesture is not only a significant step towards settling the outstanding gratuities of retired civil servants but also a demonstration of Zulum’s dedication to fulfilling his campaign promises. His assurance to settle all outstanding gratuities and pensions before the end of his tenure in 2027 is a welcome development that should be emulated by other states.

    I urge other state governments to take a cue from Zulum’s leadership and prioritize the payment of gratuities and pensions to their retired civil servants. This is not only a moral obligation but also a necessary step towards promoting the welfare and dignity of those who have served their states and country.

    Governor Zulum’s initiative is a shining example of what can be achieved when leaders prioritize the needs of their citizens. I commend him for his vision and leadership, and I hope that his example will inspire other leaders to follow suit.

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    Furthermore, the payment of gratuities and pensions will have a positive impact on the state’s economy. It will inject much-needed funds into the economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

    In addition, the initiative will help to reduce poverty and inequality in the state. Many retired civil servants rely on their gratuities and pensions to survive, and the payment of these benefits will help to alleviate their suffering.

    The people of Borno State have every reason to be proud of their governor, who has demonstrated his commitment to their welfare and well-being. I hope that other state governments will take a cue from Governor Zulum’s leadership and prioritize the payment of gratuities and pensions to their retired civil servants.

    • Ibrahim Bukar Tijjani, Borno State University, Maiduguri.
  • Open letter to Head of the Civil Service of the Federation

    Open letter to Head of the Civil Service of the Federation

    SIR: In April 2021, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, announced the use of only academic qualifications for entry into the Civil/Public Service of the Federation by her Circular Ref. No. HCSF/SPSO/ODD/NCE/CND.100/S.10/III/104 dated 12th April 2021. The circular states that professional certificates shall no longer serve as entry qualifications into any cadre in the Civil/Public Service and that consequently only academic qualifications such as Junior and Senior Secondary School Certificates (WASC/SSCE), NECO, GCE, ND, NCE, HND, University Degrees and Post Graduate Degrees shall apply. The circular goes further to state that professional certificates already in the Schemes of Service shall, in the interim, serve as a condition for promotion from SGL 13 to SGL 14, in addition to the criteria prescribed in the Public Service Rules and Guidelines for Appointment, Promotion and Discipline in the Service.

    Admittedly, this circular has some innovative provisions that will propel the Service to greater heights; however, we noted with dismay that those charged with implementation of the circular in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have given various interpretations of the message of the circular, thereby stretching the truth. One of the interpretations given to this circular is that an accountant already in the Service who possesses a university degree in accounting and later a professional qualification of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria cannot be advanced into SGL 10 in the Civil/Public Service. This is not in line with the extant rules for advancement within the Accountant Cadre in the Scheme of Service. When a circular speaks in vagaries, its interpretation is usually left to the whims and caprices of those charged with its implementation and the main brunt of the interpretation fall on the civil servants. However, if this interpretation is allowed to survive, it will cause employees to lose motivation to attain professional proficiency and turn the public service into a theatre of mediocrities.

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    To my understanding, the message of this circular is that professionals, including ICAN members, will no longer be considered for employment in the Civil/Public Service without them having a first degree as it used to be. The circular goes further to state that, in the interim, professional certificates already in the Schemes of Service shall be a condition for promotion from SGL 13 to SGL 14. This, to my understanding, means that a Bachelor’s degree holder cannot advance beyond SGL 13 in the Public Service without a professional certificate. I also consider this requirement an effort to confer superiority to Bachelor’s degrees in some disciplines. For instance, those on Administrative Officer Cadre in some MDAs advance beyond SGL 13 with their Bachelor’s degrees without any additional academic or professional qualification.

    I therefore implore the Head of Civil Service of the Federation to either confirm or reject the interpretation that an accountant already in the Civil Service who possesses a university degree in Accounting and later a professional qualification of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria cannot be advanced to SGL 10 by the import of this circular. I am also using this opportunity to urge the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation not to ignore the manner extant Establishment rules and circulars are flouted by those saddled with their implementation.

    • Azeez Olaolu K. (FCA) kolaolu2010@gmail.com
  • Southern Kaduna: From killing field to infrastructural hub

    Southern Kaduna: From killing field to infrastructural hub

    SIR: One of life’s most poignant aphorisms is one which recreates the impermanence of life. When people say that no condition is permanent, they mean it as both a statement of hope and a testament to defiance. People have lived to witness the fiercest storms finally and improbably wash by, and they have come to learn that even the thicket darkness will someday lift.

    For the long-suffering people of Southern Kaduna, the election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as president in 2023 has brought them unexpected succor. Shortly after he assumed office, he took the unprecedented step of appointing General CG Musa who is from Southern Kaduna as the Chief of Defence Staff. The masterful appointment was a masterstroke on so many levels.

    While Southern Kaduna has always been a flash point, the period between 2015 and 2023 proved especially bloody, with terrorists chewing up and spitting out the people of the zone. Dozens were killed every month there while the administrations pf Muhammadu Buhari as president and Nasir El-rufai as governor did pretty little.

    In those days when the blood of innocent, vulnerable rural dwellers flowed freely in Southern Kaduna, whispers of genocide, ethnic cleansing and systematic killing in addition to abuse of their sensitivity were rife because the governor did not give a hoot.

    Recently, Kassim Shettima, the vice president was in the zone for a condolence visit during which he revealed that the federal government plans to establish a Federal Medical Center as well as a university in the zone.

    The current governor, Uba Sani, came with an agenda for with peace, humility, and reconciliation and the bloodbath ceased. The diverse ethnic groups in the state have seen themselves as one, and oneness has returned.

    The Tinubu government is about to follow up  with a university and a Federal Medical Centre in the zone.  The university would help the killers and their victims to interface and embrace civilization and socialization in an atmosphere of learning. On the other hand, the Federal Medical Centre would improve critical healthcare for the people.

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    Surely but steadily, the government of Governor Uba Sani is reminding the long-suffering citizens of the state of the time Ahmed Makarfi because he was a peaceful person. For all the horrors they have survived in the past 20 years, the good people of Southern Kaduna deserve critical infrastructure as well as lasting peace and security.

    Now that a new Pharaoh is in town, one that is deaf to the sirens of religion and tribalism, there is no better time to console the people.

    It is hoped that other neglected parts of the country who have known depredation and destruction either as a result of environmental degradation or terrorism will come to experience a similar level of attention at the hands of the government.

    If every part of the country is to feel a sense of belonging, then the government must take measurable steps to promote inclusion and unity.

    • Ike Willie-Nwobu,Ikewilly9@gmail.com
  • Tax Reform Bill: Demystifying NLC chairman, Joe Ajaero’s call for withdrawal

    Tax Reform Bill: Demystifying NLC chairman, Joe Ajaero’s call for withdrawal

    By Arabinrin Aderonke 

    It’s a new year, a year that will possibly see to the passage and implementation of the People’s Bill, also known as the Tax Reform Bills. For Nigerian workers, the conversation surrounding this legislation is not just a political or economic issue but a matter of personal and collective empowerment. Following the recent call for its withdrawal by Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), it is imperative to dispel any misconceptions and highlight the truth.

    Joe Ajaero’s call for the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bill raises questions that I believe demand serious scrutiny. Are other Labour members in agreement with his stance, or is this an isolated position? Has there been adequate consultation with unions, economic experts, and the workers who stand to gain the most from this legislation? With breakdowns of the bill consistently shared in the media, I wonder if Ajaero has taken the time to truly study its provisions. Is his opposition rooted in legitimate concerns or a misunderstanding of the bill’s intent and structure? To me, the Tax Reform Bill is not just another policy document; it is an initiative aimed at ensuring a more inclusive and equitable economy for all Nigerians.

    Tax Reform Bill is more concerned about the masses, especially Nigerian workers. The Bills bring targeted relief to Nigerians by exempting those earning up to ₦1 million annually from PAYE taxes and reducing rates for salaries below ₦1.7 million monthly. Essentials like food, healthcare, education, and electricity are zero-rated for VAT, transport, rent, and baby products, directly reducing living costs. These measures prioritize affordability and financial relief for low and middle-income earners.

    Small businesses, long regarded as the backbone of the Nigerian economy, are set to benefit from an increased tax exemption threshold, now raised from ₦25 million to ₦50 million in annual turnover. This means many small enterprises will enjoy full exemptions from company income tax and withholding tax, thereby reducing operating costs and enabling growth. Simplified tax processes further ease compliance, encouraging formalization and transparency. For larger businesses, the corporate income tax rate has been lowered from 30% to 25%. Additionally, the introduction of the Office of Tax Ombud will ensure swift resolution of disputes and protect taxpayers from arbitrary assessments. These are just a few of the benefits, and the Tax Reform Bill is truly focused on you, the Nigerian people. It ensures that Nigerians, from hardworking workers to small business owners, benefit from a more equitable and supportive tax system.

    In addition to the proposed changes, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also demonstrated a clear intention to modernize the tax administration system. President Tinubu’s moves emphasize simplifying and making the tax process more transparent, while also protecting taxpayers’ rights. The government has been actively engaging with stakeholders, including the private sector, to ensure that the reforms align with the needs of businesses, especially small enterprises. The emphasis on reducing the corporate income tax rate from 30% to 25% is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to attracting both local and foreign investment. This reduction is expected to stimulate job creation, promote business growth, and ultimately enhance the economic environment. 

    Furthermore, the government has been working to harmonise tax policies across different states, aiming to eliminate overlapping levies that have historically hindered business operations. The bill now gives 60% of VAT revenue to the states where goods and services are consumed. This means states with more consumption will receive more funds, helping them improve services like roads, schools, and healthcare. With the bills, states will rely less on federal funding and have more control over their finances, allowing them to better meet the needs of their people and grow their economies. These actions underline the government’s dedication to creating a more investor-friendly economy.

    In conclusion, Nigerian workers should be aware that the Tax Reform Bill will bring relief through reduced company income taxes, unlimited VAT input claims, and other reforms that will lower tax burdens and business costs. These changes will make businesses more profitable, enabling them to retain existing workers and create new jobs, driving expansion and promoting a more robust economy.

    The Tax Reform Bill is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape Nigeria’s economic sector in favour of its people. Nigerian workers deserve nothing less than the truth, and they deserve to see this bill implemented to realise its full potential.

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the Technical Assistant, Broadcast Media to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)

  • How to grow Nigeria’s budget pie

    How to grow Nigeria’s budget pie

    Sir: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently presented a budget of N49.7 trillion (approximately $28 billion) to the National Assembly. This figure underscores a stark paradox: A country both “rich” and “poor”—abundant in crude oil and natural resources, yet struggling to translate this wealth into meaningful development.

    With an estimated population of 234.9 million— the sixth most populous country in the world—a $28 billion budget is insufficient to address critical needs like food security, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Notably, N4.91 trillion is allocated to defence and security, while N4.06 trillion, N2.48 trillion, and N3.52 trillion are earmarked for infrastructure, healthcare, and education, respectively.

    Despite its large and predominantly youthful population, coupled with vast untapped natural resources, Nigeria must urgently improve its earnings to remain competitive in today’s challenging global economy. The Tinubu administration has made strides by removing petroleum subsidies and floating the Naira. While these measures have increased revenue for both the federal government and subnational entities, they have also had severe repercussions: reduced purchasing power for citizens, continued depreciation of the Naira, rising commodity prices due to the country’s import dependency, and spiralling inflation.

    The key question remains: How can Nigeria build the resources needed to cater to its large population and effectively compete with major African economies?

    On paper, Nigeria holds the title of Africa’s largest economy, yet in practice, it faces serious challenges. For instance, South Africa, Africa’s most industrialized economy, boasts a GDP of approximately $373 billion, followed closely by Egypt with $347 billion. By contrast, Nigeria’s GDP has fallen to $199.7 billion, ranking it fourth among African economies.

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    To reverse this trend, policymakers must prioritize agriculture and human capital development. These two sectors alone hold the potential to generate billions of dollars and provide long-term, sustainable growth. While subsidy removal and currency floating may produce immediate gains, agriculture and human capital can continually fuel economic prosperity.

    A collaborative and benchmarking approach is essential. Nigeria should study and adopt the models of successful agricultural economies such as China, Brazil, Argentina, Indonesia, the United States, Russia, Australia, Denmark, India, Canada, and France—all of which generate billions annually from agriculture. Take Indonesia, for example: it is one of the world’s leading producers of palm oil, rice, rubber, cocoa, and coffee. Agriculture plays a central role in Indonesia’s economy, and Nigeria has the potential to elevate its own agricultural sector to even greater heights.

    Moreover, Nigeria’s human capital is one of the fastest-growing in the world. By harnessing its dynamic workforce both domestically and internationally, Nigeria can unlock significant economic value. For instance, in 2022 alone, Nigeria accounted for $21.9 billion in diaspora remittances, representing 64% of all remittances in West Africa.

    The truth is that a budget of N49.7 trillion (approximately $28 billion) is merely a drop in the ocean for a nation of nearly 250 million people, spanning a landmass of approximately 923,768 square kilometres.

    Nigeria must take bold and innovative steps to leverage its resources effectively. Strategic investments in agriculture and human capital development will not only boost national revenue but also secure Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage.

    •Zayyad I. Muhammad,Abuja.

  • Addressing non-communicable diseases in underserved communities

    Addressing non-communicable diseases in underserved communities

    Sir: A recent engagement with communities in Kano and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) revealed the heavy economic burden faced by individuals living with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes. Without proper management, these conditions can escalate into more severe health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Despite their profound impact on public health and the growing prevalence of NCDs, one cannot help but question why these diseases receive far less attention and resources compared to others like HIV/AIDS. This stark disparity underscores the urgent need for a more focused and proactive approach to addressing the NCD crisis before it spirals further out of control.

    While global efforts focus on high-profile public health emergencies, chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to silently ravage rural communities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It’s no surprise that NCDs now account for 71% of global deaths, with 29% of those occurring in Nigeria alone.

    In Nigeria, approximately 30% of adults suffer from hypertension, and 7% live with diabetes, making these two conditions among the most prevalent NCDs in the country. Beyond the statistics, this translates to lives lost, families torn apart, and communities becoming less productive and more vulnerable. Shockingly, the majority of people living with NCDs are unaware of their conditions, largely due to a lack of awareness about risk factors, leading to late diagnoses and inadequate treatment. This underscores the critical need for timely interventions in the detection and management of these diseases.

    Unfortunately, access to quality, affordable care for NCDs remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas and primary healthcare settings. This is largely due to a combination of limited resources and socio-economic factors, which have contributed to an environment where NCDs continue to thrive unchecked. Effective management of these diseases requires innovative and unconventional strategies, particularly in community engagement, education, and accessible healthcare.

    Countries like Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh are taking intentional steps to integrate the WHO’s Package of Essential Non-Communicable Diseases (PEN) interventions into their primary health systems. This comprehensive, cost-effective approach aims to improve healthcare delivery, enhance health outcomes, and reduce the burden of NCDs, especially in underserved populations.

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    In Nigeria, eHealth Africa and the EHA REACH Clinic have also piloted the PEN intervention to improve rural access and address hypertension and diabetes in the Federal Capital Territory and Kano State. This approach emphasizes community engagement, cross-sector collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and access to essential medicines. With training on effective hypertension and diabetes management, Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) are now supporting over 200 patients in managing their conditions. This model has proven effective in improving health outcomes, especially in rural communities. In fact, CHEWs have become trusted figures who lead health education efforts on NCD prevention, conduct screenings, and help patients access healthcare services while educating them about lifestyle changes that reduce NCD risks.

    While community engagement through CHEWs is essential, innovative digital health tools also play a critical role in improving NCD management. Mobile health tracking apps can motivate individuals to take control of their health and monitor their progress. These apps make educational content more engaging and accessible, helping to foster a more proactive approach to managing chronic diseases.

    Prevention is key in addressing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Community-based fitness and nutrition programs can support healthier lifestyles. Advocating for policies that improve health infrastructure in rural communities will complement these efforts. This includes better funding for primary healthcare facilities, transportation services for medical visits, and initiatives that promote healthier environments.

    Most importantly, it is high time we prioritize NCDs and provide free medical support for conditions like hypertension and diabetes, just as we have for HIV/AIDS and other vaccine-preventable diseases. As HIV/AIDS has garnered global support for free treatment, we must now recognize the urgent need for equitable, accessible care for hypertension and diabetes. This will ensure that those affected are not left behind in the pursuit of better health outcomes. Given the long-term nature of these conditions, which often require ongoing medication, offering free treatment will significantly reduce the burden on individuals and healthcare systems alike.

    In conclusion, prevention, early detection, and the integration of innovative approaches within primary healthcare systems are essential to tackling NCDs. These strategies will not only improve individual well-being but also strengthen the overall resilience of communities.

    •Moshood Isah,eHealth Africa, Abuja.