The Nation Newspaper

Category: Health

  • FG intensifies fight against cancers, trains specialists

    FG intensifies fight against cancers, trains specialists

    The Federal government is intensifying its effort to close the wide gap of deficiency of cancer workforce in the country with the training of over 1000 health workers in different specialties of cancer in the past few months, it emerged on Thursday.

    The training, organized by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), according to the Director General (DG) of the Institute, Prof. Usman Aliyu, becomes inevitable because the country lacks enough workforce in oncology to tackle the rising cases of all forms of cancers among Nigerians.

    Speaking at the joint opening ceremony of four different trainings in Abuja, Aliyu emphasized that the training will add value to the skills and knowledge of oncology workforce in the country.

    The 3-day training which drew participants from the six geo-political zones of the country included cancer immunotherapy, colorectal cancer surgery, train-the-trainer on identification of the signs and symptoms of childhood cancer, and training on critical thinking and research in oncology nursing.

    Explaining the rationale behind the initiative and its expected impact, the DG said: “Oncology is one of the evolving areas in medicine, generally, we have actually shortage of oncology workforce in the country.

    “And you know, part of the mandate of NICRAT is to train and acquire enough oncology workforce for the country, vis a vis from surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncologist, oncology nurses, medical physicists and even the palliative care staff.

    “And the importance of this is to deliver the required care, and not only the required care but also the quality and timely cancer care when needed.

    Read Also: Why women must be conscious of cancers, by NOWA

    “As part of our activities for the implementation of the activities from our 5-year strategic plan, the Institute designed to train all the oncology workers in the country. 

    “This is just the beginning, but we intend to continue training and retraining until the country has enough as promised by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government. So that is why we are having these very important trainings.”

    “Since its inception in early 2023, NICRAT has initiated various strategies aimed at reducing the burden of all forms of cancers in Nigeria. 

    “One of such strategies is organizing training and retraining for healthcare workers on various aspects of cancer care, prevention, treatment and control. 

    “The most recent being training of healthcare workers at primary and secondary facilities on the early detection and management of chronic Hepatitis B and C and Liver cancer across Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states which ended yesterday.

    “Also, a few months ago, NICRAT dispatched experts across to the six geo-political zones to conduct three important trainings. One; is the training of Biomedical Engineers and Medical Physicists, two; training on Psycho-Oncology for healthcare workers at the tertiary healthcare level and three; training on Cervical Cancer Screening and Referral for primary and secondary healthcare workers. Over 1000 healthcare workers benefited from these trainings across different regions of the country.”

  • Advocates urge government to strengthen tobacco control laws amid amendment talks

    Advocates urge government to strengthen tobacco control laws amid amendment talks

    Anti-tobacco advocates have urged the federal government and the National Assembly to reinforce the National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA) 2015 instead of diluting its provisions as discussions on proposed amendments continue. 

    The groups emphasized the need to close regulatory loopholes, safeguard public health, and prevent undue interference by the tobacco industry in shaping Nigeria’s health policies.

    The advocates called on the Nigerian government to draw inspiration from the recent decisive actions taken by the Kenyan and United Kingdom (UK) governments to curb tobacco use.

    The advocates noted that the title of one of the bills, was defective and detrimental to public health as it limits the scope and coverage of tobacco use to smoking only.

    The groups acknowledged that while several sections of the proposed amendment bill were progressive, others were counterproductive and posed a significant risk to the younger generation.

    They warned that these provisions could undermine years of efforts to discourage tobacco use among youths, particularly in the face of emerging products like e-cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and smokeless tobacco, which remain unregulated under the extant NTCA 2015.

    The advocates, at a press briefing organized by the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) and the Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) in Abuja on Wednesday, identified several critical areas that require immediate attention in the proposed amendments, particularly concerning the regulation of emerging tobacco products.

    They noted that these emerging products include e-cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and smokeless tobacco, which remain unregulated under the current law.

    The advocates raised concerns over the aggressive marketing by tobacco companies to young people, often accompanied by false claims of being safer alternatives.

    Furthermore, they stressed that the ban on these products in advertising, promotion, and sponsorship should be made explicit in the new law to curb their widespread appeal. 

    Read Also: Tobacco consumption boost Africa’s GDP, tax revenue

    They also criticized the proposed 30-meter no-smoking buffer around schools, daycare centres, and parks as inadequate for protecting children and other vulnerable groups.

    Citing a 2018 Senate resolution that recommended a 100-meter restriction, they demanded this distance be adopted to ensure better protection from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke. 

    Also, the proposal to remove provisions banning single-stick cigarette sales drew criticism from the advocates, who argued that single-stick sales make tobacco products more affordable and accessible, especially to minors and low-income individuals, undermining public health efforts to reduce smoking prevalence.

    They demand that the ban on single-stick sales be reinstated and its enforcement strengthened to deter violations. 

    The group stressed that the rising influence of digital platforms in marketing tobacco products has further highlighted the need for robust regulatory measures.

    They called for explicit provisions to regulate online advertising and promotion of tobacco products, particularly as digital channels like social media often target minors.

    They recommended penalties for platforms and vendors that facilitate the sale or promotion of these products online. 

    However, they expressed support for the proposed amendment to create sustainable funding for tobacco control through the Tobacco Control Fund (TCF), endorsing the provision to allocate 40% of taxes, levies, and excise duties collected from tobacco products to the TCF, noting that it aligns with the polluter-pays principle.

    They also recommended extending the levies to cover emerging products like vapes and heated tobacco devices, adding that such measures would not only discourage consumption but also provide crucial resources for public health programs. 

    Rejecting claims that taxing the tobacco industry harms the economy, Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of CAPPA, noted that tobacco companies continue to report significant profits despite regulatory measures.

    He called for higher taxes on all tobacco products, including emerging alternatives, to reduce consumption and fund public health initiatives. 

    Oluwafemi urged public health authorities and legislators to resist collaborations with the tobacco industry.

    Zikorah Ibeh of NTCA noted that the ongoing partnership between the Tobacco industry and the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC), Universities, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government is undermining public health.

    Noting that the development is in breach of provisions of Section 18 of the National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA) 2015, Ibeh said the law prohibits the tobacco industry from influencing public health policies, forming partnerships with public institutions, or engaging in youth initiatives disguised as corporate social responsibilities (CSR) activities.

    According to her, such partnership amounts to whitewashing the image of the tobacco industry while luring impressionable youths to patronize tobacco products injurious to their health and future.

    She urged the government and public health authorities to enforce section 18 of the National Tobacco Control Act, ensuring that all interactions with the tobacco industry are transparent and strictly regulatory.

    “By addressing these violations and adopting amendments that genuinely prioritize public health, Nigeria can align its tobacco control framework with global best practices, protect its citizens, and hold the tobacco industry accountable,” she noted.

  • FG intensifies collaboration as Nigeria loses 110 per 1,000 live births to preventable diseases

    FG intensifies collaboration as Nigeria loses 110 per 1,000 live births to preventable diseases

    The federal government has reiterated the critical role of its development partners in addressing the persistent challenge of neonatal deaths, despite ongoing collaborative efforts.

    Referencing the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Adekunle Salako, noted that, despite advances, Nigeria’s under-five mortality rate remains at 110 per 1,000 live births, far from the 2030 global target of 25 per 1,000.

    The government’s agenda call to action followed the donation of 400 lifesaving Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines by HATCH Technologies and the Christian Health Association of Nigeria (CHAN) in Abuja on Wednesday during the commemoration of World Pneumonia and Prematurity Day.

    The Minister stressed the urgency of the partnership, noting that while progress has been made, Nigeria remains among the countries with the highest under-five mortality rates, contributing 16% to global under-five deaths while noting that over 700,000 Nigerian children die from preventable causes.

    Salako also highlighted pneumonia’s devastating impact, accounting for over 800,000 global deaths yearly, primarily in low- and middle-income countries, further underscoring the need for intensified intervention and collaboration.

    He however said to address this, the government must continue to implement policies such as the Every Newborn Action Plan and strengthen collaborations with partners, including the Every Breath Counts Coalition and Pediatric Association of Nigeria.

    While commending initiatives like the In-Patient Pneumonia Treatment Algorithm, which has improved healthcare workers’ skills and contributed to the decline in under-five mortality rates, the Minister urged others to emulate the HATCH Technologies and CHAN that donated 400 Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines that will support neonatal care in 139 secondary and tertiary health facilities across the country.

    The Minister also highlighted the need to address external factors like air pollution, a leading cause of childhood pneumonia. Nigeria’s ranking as the third most polluted country in Africa underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration to reduce pollution-related deaths.

    Salako reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting routine immunization, exclusive breastfeeding, improved hygiene, and nutrition, alongside equipping healthcare facilities and training workers.

    Earlier, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, emphasized the critical need to address pneumonia and prematurity, the leading causes of child deaths in the country that contribute significantly to the high under-five mortality rate of 110 per 1,000 live births.

    According to her, records showed that Pneumonia alone claims a child’s life every 20 seconds, surpassing deaths from HIV/AIDS, malaria, and measles combined, with three-quarters of global warming pneumonia deaths occurring in Nigeria and 14 other countries.

    “While most deaths resulting from Pneumonia occur in developing countries, about three-quarters of the global mortalities take place in Nigeria and 14 other countries.

    “Majorly from complications of preterm delivery, the preliminary report of the 2023-2024 NDHS indicates a concerning rise in newborn mortality, from an initial 39 per 1,000 live births in 2018 to 41/1000 Live Births in 2023,” she noted.

    Read Also: Lagos prepares for major vaccination drive against preventable diseases

    Given this, she said the 2024 themes, ‘Access to Quality Care Everywhere’ and ‘Partnership for Progress’, is a call to action for a strengthened healthcare system, attain universal health coverage and to collectively advocate for improved inequality gap to reach the most vulnerable group who bear the major consequences of childhood pneumonia and problems associated with prematurity

    Kachollom also called for increased access to vaccines, sanitation, and nutrition remains vital, adding, “By uniting governments, NGOs, and healthcare providers, we can ensure a future where every child has the opportunity to live, grow, and thrive”.

    Sema Sokpo of HATCH Technologies and the Christian Health Association of Nigeria (CHAN ) said the initiative was driven by a critical examination of the challenges newborns face, particularly in terms of accessibility and affordability, alongside the need for health worker training and the sustainability of lifesaving devices.

    Highlighting the country’s unreliable electricity supply, Sokpo revealed that the neonatal device blends air and oxygen without requiring electricity, enabling its use in underserved and remote areas.

    He also noted plans for further donations to expand the intervention’s reach. 

    The President of the Nigerian Society of Neonatal Medicine, Mariya Mukhtar -Yola noted that the NDHS 2023, unfortunately, was not in favour of newborn mortality.

    “There are no data sets in our NDHS to capture the small and sick newborns. So we cannot plan around them. So we really need to look into that. 

    “The small and sick newborns contribute to almost 80% of the death that occurs amongst these newborns. And that’s why there is a special group that we must focus on.

    “So things have gotten worse, and that means we need to do more. We need to do a lot more,” she said.

    WHO Country Representative, Walter Mulombo, who was represented by Mary Brantuo, Team Lead of Coverage/Life Course Cluster, said WHO recent data on under-five mortality rates means “Nigeria is not on track to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 3.2, the related targets to reduce by 2030 preventable deaths of newborns and children under five”. 

    WHO urged the scaling of lifesaving interventions such as kangaroo mother care, early breastfeeding, and family involvement in care, else the country runs the risk of missing the 2030 target of the Sustainable Development Goals and UHC

    UNICEF representative, Fatima Gohar called for a stronger focus on high-impact interventions, particularly maternal care integration and health system strengthening, to prevent deaths.

    Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to achieve SDGs for child survival by 2030.

  • FG reaffirms commitment to harnessing research, technology for improved healthcare

    FG reaffirms commitment to harnessing research, technology for improved healthcare

    The federal government has reiterated its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s health sector by leveraging research, technology, and innovation to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and provide affordable, quality healthcare for all Nigerians.

    Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at the 2024 Research Symposium, organised by PharmaAccess and its partners in Abuja, Abdul Mukhtar, National Coordinator of the Presidential Unlocking Healthcare Value Chain Initiative (PVAC), emphasised the central role of research in driving the nation’s healthcare strategy.

    Mukhtar, while describing research as the cornerstone of effective policies, improved health outcomes, and a resilient healthcare system, dispelled the perception of research as an academic exercise confined to laboratories, highlighting its practical relevance in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges.

    He noted that the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (HSRII), anchored on a sector-wide approach (SWAp), underpins the government’s four-point agenda for health, which focuses on governance, efficient service delivery, fostering innovation, and strengthening health security.

    Mukhtar noted that the symposium’s theme, ‘Innovating Healthcare in Nigeria: Connecting Research and Policy for UHC’, was timely, emphasising that government initiatives heavily depend on research and digital innovation to align with UHC goals and provide both financial and physical access to healthcare.

    According to him, the government had to prioritize reducing reliance on imported healthcare products, as nearly 80% of medicines, almost all vaccines, and most medical devices are sourced internationally, placing a significant strain on local resources and capacity.

    Revealing that the Presidential Initiative for Domestic Healthcare Manufacturing aims to reverse these trends by 2030, creating jobs and boosting self-reliance in healthcare production, Mukhtar emphasized that these goals are unattainable without research and digital innovation.

    Highlighting the need for resilient systems, Mukhtar called for the development of robust information technology infrastructure and the use of tools like artificial intelligence for data collection, analysis, and visualisation.

    This, he explained, would enable evidence-based policymaking and align Nigeria with global advancements in personalized medicine and clinical research.

    He also praised existing initiatives, such as the establishment of the Centre for Genomic Research at Redeemer’s University in Osun state, as proof of Nigeria’s potential to lead in healthcare innovation.

    However, he stressed that sustained funding, advocacy, and collaboration are essential for scaling such efforts while calling on stakeholders to harness Nigeria’s talent and resources to drive transformative change in the health sector.

    Research is not only the foundation of progress but also the catalyst for a healthier and more resilient nation, he added.

    In his remarks, Michel Deelen, Consul-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Consulate in Nigeria, highlighted his country’s €46 million investment in Nigeria through the Health Innovation Fund (HIF).

    He underscored the importance of linking research to policy to achieve UHC targets and strengthen healthcare systems.

    Deelen cited the HIF’s success in Lagos and Kwara States, where digitized social health insurance schemes have enhanced healthcare inclusivity, particularly for vulnerable populations.

    In Lagos, the adoption of SafeCare Quality Standards has improved service delivery in 220 public and private health facilities, with a 66% improvement in facility scores.

    According to him, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), with support from the HIF, is now scaling these efforts nationwide, incorporating over 7,000 healthcare facilities into quality improvement initiatives.

    The diplomat also highlighted the enactment of the Mandatory Health Insurance Act, facilitated by the HIF, as a pivotal step toward reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and bridging access gaps.

    The Consul General urged sustained collaboration to build on these successes, emphasizing that integrating research and policy is critical to achieving Nigeria’s UHC goals.

    Earlier, Njide Ndili, Country Director of PharmaAccess, noted that the symposium sought to address the persistent challenge of ineffective health policies informed by imported data that fail to reflect Nigeria’s realities.

    Read Also: AYCF commends FG, NNPC for reviving Port Harcourt Refinery

    She emphasised the need for data-driven, context-specific solutions to transform healthcare systems across Africa.

    Ndili also reiterated the transformative potential of mobile technology in healthcare, citing tools like the Mobile App for Triage and Screening (MATS) as examples of how digital solutions can enhance access, efficiency, and scalability in healthcare delivery.

    She called for continued innovation and collaboration to address persistent challenges, such as low enrollment in health insurance and inconsistent care quality.

    “The symposium served as a platform for stakeholders to explore innovative solutions and share lessons learned, with the goal of driving sustainable progress toward universal health coverage in Nigeria,” she said.

  • World AIDS Day: NACA, stakeholders intensify efforts against mother-to-child transmission

    World AIDS Day: NACA, stakeholders intensify efforts against mother-to-child transmission

    The federal government has reiterated its commitment to reversing mother-to-child transmission of HIV as it scales up interventions to meet the 2030 target of eliminating the disease as a public health threat. 

    It said the renewed effort becomes critical, as despite past progress in combating HIV, significant gaps remain that could undermine the gains achieved through government and development partners’ interventions.

    According to reports, Nigeria’s HIV prevalence stands at 1.4%, with 2 million people living with HIV with approximately 160,000 children living with the virus, and 22,000 new infections occur among children annually, while 15,000 AIDS-related deaths are recorded. 

    Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday to kickstart this year’s commemoration of World AIDS Day (WAD), the Director General (DG) of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Temitope Ilori said as Nigeria commemorates WAD 2024, the focus shifts to the urgent need to meet the 2030 target of ending AIDS. 

    Highlighting the challenges hindering efforts to meet the set targets and the necessary solutions, she said, “Despite progress, including a reduction in HIV-related deaths and new infections, significant challenges persist, particularly among marginalized communities and children.

    “To meet the 2030 goal, the country must prioritize the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT), which remains below the 33% target. 

    “The National Health Acceleration Committee, led by the Minister of State for Health, has been established to track the implementation of strategies aimed at reducing new infections among children. 

    “This initiative, alongside the Global Alliance Action Plan, seeks to ensure that no child is born with HIV in Nigeria.

    “In addition to improving PMTCT coverage, sustainability is a key focus. 

    “The Nigerian government, with support from partners, has committed to increasing domestic resources, promoting local manufacturing of HIV-related supplies, and creating a robust health infrastructure that remains resilient in the face of funding uncertainties. 

    “Strengthening data management and expanding access to health services are also central to the strategy.

    “Challenges such as dwindling donor funding, stigma, and gaps in services must be addressed by scaling up HIV prevention efforts and ensuring universal access to free, comprehensive HIV care, including antenatal services and health insurance. 

    “The roadmap to ending AIDS in Nigeria by 2030 is clear: sustain gains, expand services, and ensure no one is left behind”.

    On his part, the Country Representative of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Leo Zekeng, said to meet the 2030 goal of ending AIDS, Nigeria must focus on sustainable HIV interventions, according to UNAIDS Country Representative Leo Zekeng. 

    Read Also: Mpox: People living with HIV/AIDS at higher risk, NACA cautions

    He noted that while progress has been made, including reduced deaths and new infections, the current model is unsustainable. 

    Zekeng emphasizes the need for renewed political commitment, increased domestic funding, and partnerships across sectors to sustain the fight. 

    According to him, key actions include integrating services, reducing stigma, and promoting local manufacturing of HIV-related supplies to reduce reliance on foreign aid. 

    Furthermore, he added that prioritizing the prevention of mother-to-child transmission and expanding health insurance coverage are critical, noting that community-led efforts and a commitment to ensuring no child is born with HIV will be vital in achieving the 2030 target.

    “But as we celebrate, sustainability also means putting communities also in the leadership in terms of implementing, stopping babies born with HIV and AIDS, having access to quality and affordable services,” he added.

    He, however, assured Nigeria of UNAIDS’ unwavering support, stating, “Not only UNAIDS but the entire UN system is committed to working closely with you, the communities, and partners to ensure we can end AIDS in this beautiful country by 2030”.

    In her remarks, the Country Coordinator of the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), Funmi Adesanya also suggested that to achieve the 2030 target of ending HIV as a public health threat, Nigeria must focus on scaling up prevention strategies, including Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and harm reduction services for vulnerable populations like children. 

    Represented by the Deputy Coordinator, Emerson Evans, she also noted that investments in resilient healthcare systems to ensure uninterrupted access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), even during crises, are crucial. 

    According to her, addressing stigma, discrimination, and structural inequalities will improve care access, particularly for marginalized groups while supporting vaccine research and long-acting treatment regimens like CAB-LA will aid progress. 

    She also stressed that partnerships across government, civil society, and the private sector must drive resource mobilization to sustain these efforts. 

    The weeklong activities include a Health Walk at the National Stadium, HIV Testing Services (HTS), and free eye checkups at Eagle Square during the Abuja Carnival. 

    Other events are an adolescent and young persons’ programme, free HIV testing services in partnership with civil society organizations across Abuja, and interfaith prayers at the National Mosque and First Baptist Church, Area 11. 

    A candlelight vigil, led by NEPWHAN, will honour those who have lost their lives to the disease, while the week will also feature a breakfast meeting focused on sustaining HIV services through integration at the primary healthcare level.

  • When Doctors Make Mistakes: Why Medical Errors are So Devastating

    When Doctors Make Mistakes: Why Medical Errors are So Devastating

    NHS data reveals that there were 13,833 new medical negligence claims between 2023 and 2024, a rise of 4% on the previous 12 months. Obstetrics departments receive the largest number of claims, closely followed by emergency medicine and orthopaedic surgery.

    Medical errors cause immense suffering for patients and their families. Though many of these mistakes are preventable, they continue to plague healthcare systems around the world. Understanding why doctors make errors and how patients are impacted can help us reduce these tragic events.

    The Prevalence of Preventable Medical Mistakes

    One BMJ study estimates that preventable medical mistakes may be the third leading cause of death worldwide. Many serious medical errors are reported each month. These include medication mix-ups, misdiagnoses, surgical mistakes, and more. While most doctors provide safe, high-quality care, human error is inevitable in a complex system like healthcare. Even simple oversights can have devastating consequences. A fatigued junior doctor can easily make a catastrophic mistake when prescribing medication.

    Why Doctors Make Mistakes

    Heavy workloads, insufficient training, communication breakdowns, outdated technology and fatigue are all factors that contribute to human error in medicine. Doctors, particularly those in training, are often overworked, sleep-deprived, and stressed. Working under these conditions increases the likelihood of lapses in judgement. Lack of experience and inadequate supervision can also lead novice clinicians to make errors. Finally, outdated procedures, inefficient systems and lack of quality control measures allow mistakes to fall through the cracks.

    The Tragic Impact on Patients

    For patients and families, medical errors can result in significant injury, disability or even death. Just as upsetting is loss of trust in physicians and the healthcare system. Patients who are victims of mistakes often experience anger, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and depression. They may fear seeking further treatment, worried about the potential for more errors. Not only does this impact their health, but mistrust can impair the doctor-patient relationship.

    Seeking Accountability and Answers

    In many cases, inadequate communication after an error leaves patients confused and searching for answers. Doctors are often reluctant to disclose mistakes due to fear of malpractice lawsuits or professional discipline. However, patients have a right to know when errors occur and why. Clear explanations demonstrate accountability, allowing patients to make informed decisions about further treatment. Compassionate and transparent disclosure is essential for rebuilding trust.

    Preventing Medical Mistakes

    While not all errors can be avoided, many systemic changes can reduce their likelihood. Improved training, supervision of new doctors, and enforcement of work hour limits help prevent clinician fatigue and knowledge gaps. Updated protocols, checklists, and decision support tools can also improve patient safety. Transitioning to electronic health records reduces mistakes related to illegible handwriting or misplaced charts. Finally, a just culture that reports errors without fear of punishment allows the healthcare system to learn from mistakes rather than covering them up.

    If this happens to you, it’s important to speak to a medical negligence solicitor. Visit this website to learn more.

    The Road Forward

    Medical mistakes will likely never be fully eliminated, given the complexities of healthcare delivery. However, greater focus on transparency, system improvement, and supporting both patients and providers after errors occur can help limit devastating consequences. While we cannot change the past, we can strive to prevent harm in the future.

  • HOMEF urges ban on GMOs, cites health, poverty risks

    HOMEF urges ban on GMOs, cites health, poverty risks

    The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has called on Nigerians to stop using Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) on their farms due to significant health and poverty risks.

    The foundation has urged the government to ban GMOs nationwide.

    Joyce Brown, Director of Programmes at HOMEF, emphasised the importance of banning GMOs in Nigeria and other African countries, advocating for sustainable farming practices rooted in local realities.

    At a press briefing organized by HOMEF in Abuja, she stressed that natural farming without chemicals is the safest and should be adopted henceforth.

    Brown pointed out that GMOs pose long-term health risks and contribute to poverty, as GMO products cannot be reused, forcing farmers to continuously purchase new seeds.

    She argued that this dynamic enriches manufacturers while impoverishing farmers.

    Mrs. Ejim Lovelin Nnena, a rural farmer, echoed these sentiments, stating that adopting GMOs equates to adopting poverty, as it increases food costs.

    Read Also: HOMEF trains Bayelsa volunteers as communities decry oil spills

    She urged the government to secure areas for traditional seed activities, emphasising that seeds are integral to their livelihood.

    Dr. Segun Adebayo, Deputy Director of Food Safety and Agricultural Research at the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the prevalence of unsafe foods and noted that many developed countries, including Austria, have rejected GMOs due to associated risks.

    He called for Nigeria to follow suit to protect its citizens.

    “We are happy that the National Assembly is beginning to understand the negative impact of GMOs,” he said

  • Health minister affirms FG’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations

    Health minister affirms FG’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations

    The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and safeguarding the most vulnerable citizens, emphasising that its comprehensive health sector revitalization plans aim to improve population health outcomes while providing financial protection for those at risk.

    The commitment was reaffirmed by the coordinating minister for health and social welfare, Prof. Mohammed Pate, at the opening ceremony of the 65th National Council on Health (NCH) held in Maiduguri, Borno state, where he highlighted the administration’s focus on revitalizing the health sector and fostering collaboration between federal and state governments to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

    In a statement by the ministry’s deputy director of information and public relations, Alaba Balogun, the event, themed ‘Accelerating Pathways to Universal Health Coverage: Strategies for 2030 Success’, brought together Commissioners of Health from the 36 States, top management staff of the Ministry, development partners, and civil society organizations (CSOs) to deliberate on strategies for achieving UHC by 2030.

    Pate highlighted key achievements under the National Health Renewal Investment Initiative (NHRII), underscoring the Federal Government’s dedication to meeting citizens’ needs and promoting transparency in health governance.

    He said: “More than 8,000 primary health care centres in Nigeria had benefitted from the ₦46 billion released by the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

    “Furthermore, a testament to this partnership and collaborative efforts was the training of more than 43,000 frontline health workers out of the targets of 120,000 that was set, which is still ongoing.

    “We have expanded the medical relief program to provide targeted support to ensure that the poorest and most vulnerable access products when they need them.

    “The revitalization of primary health care has been underway, and more will be revitalized. I think we have visibility to almost 4,000 in collaboration with the States.”

    The coordinating minister also underscored the critical role of regulatory bodies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in safeguarding the safety and efficacy of health products and ensuring quality across the distribution system.

    To address affordability and accessibility challenges, the Minister noted that the Federal Government has expanded its medical relief program to support the poorest and most vulnerable populations.

    “On the affordability side, through the National Health Insurance Authority NHIA, the obstetric complication of Vesico Vaginal Fistula, we’ve had more than 1,000 women already being prepared for their obstetric fistula complications free of charge since that initiative was announced.

    “In addition, to reduce maternal mortality, we know that at least 30 primary health care centres and secondary facilities can offer similar services. These services are being provided by the NHIA and, more will be provided.

    “By the end of the year, we’ll have not less than 100 and they would have reimbursement for NHIA to offer these free services for emergencies for women when they face obstetric complications, including cesarean sections,” he added.

    The coordinating minister emphasised the importance of industrial harmony in the health sector, noting that maintaining peace and stability is crucial for the successful implementation of the government’s health plans.

    Recall that the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) is currently on a seven-day industrial action which began on Monday, November 18th, 2024 to end on Sunday, November 24th, 2024, over the failure of the Government to harmonise the retirement age of Medical Consultants to 70 years; address the current shortfall of critical manpower for training, research, and healthcare services in the country; and failure of the government to universally implement the CONMESS for Clinical Lecturers in all Nigerian Universities, which aims to mitigate the current shortfalls in their Emolument, Entry Level, and Pension contribution of her members, and other contentious issues.

    The minister, however, appealed to the various professional groups to place the people at the centre of attention, stressing, that the issues that they have are being resolved by this administration’s front end.

    While declaring the 65th National Council on Health open, Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum asserted that Borno state is deeply committed to realizing the goals outlined in the Abuja Declaration, which called on every State to allocate at least 15% of their annual budget to health.

    Read Also: Health minister: 68% of Nigerian doctors sought to work in UK

    He said the commitment of the state government is underscored by the approval for a pay rise for medical doctors in the state civil service, in parity with their counterparts in Federal public service.

    To this end, he directed the state Commissioner of Health to liaise with relevant government agencies to bridge gaps in payment between doctors working for the State and Federal governments.

     He described the NCH meeting as a forum to collaborate, brainstorm, and deliver on the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards actualizing the goal to save lives, reduce both physical and financial pain, and, produce health for all Nigerians.

    In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, while commending Governor Zulum for hosting the 65th NCH a year ago and, acknowledged and applauded him for his commitment to improving the welfare of the health workforce in Borno State.

  • NANTMP urges NASS to expedite actions on alternative medicine council bill

    NANTMP urges NASS to expedite actions on alternative medicine council bill

    The President of the National Association of Nigeria Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP) Alhaji Shaaba Mekudi has urged the National Assembly to step up work on the passage of the bill to establish Traditional, Complimentary and Alternative Council of Nigeria(TCACN). 

    Mekudi said the establishment of the council would help to regulate the practice of traditional medicine and upscale its standards such that it will meet up with the international expectations.

    The NANTMP President made the call in in Abeokuta during the workshop organised by its South-West branch in collaboration with United Nations Federation of International Astro on the Practice of Traditional Medicine in Nigeria.

    The theme of the two-day conference was: “The Impacts of NAFDAC in the preparation and selling of herbal medicine in Nigeria.”

    Mekudi said: ”When you go to Ghana and other countries, you will see establishment of traditional medicine council.

    “We are also using this opportunity to call on the National Assembly and the Federal Government to ensure the passage of this bill to establish the Traditional, Complimentary and Alternative Council.

    “We need this council to regulate our practice and bring it up to standard. See where China is today in herbal medicine. We must develop our tradition, even the World Health Organisation said that 85 per cent of the world today depends on traditional medicine.

    Read Also: Civil society groups reject coastal guard Bill before NASS

    “China and other countries of the world are where they are today because of the government’s support but we are yet to have a regulatory body and this will always slow down our progress.

    “We have all the available resources, we have the manpower, we have the raw materials but we have not been able to package these medicine and market them within the nation and outside the country. We are calling on the government to help with the establishment of Traditional Medicine Council of Nigeria.”

    The  NANTMP President called for unity among members, saying that they would be able to take the practice of traditional and alternate medicine to greater heights once they are united

    Delivering his lecture at the workshop, the African Regional Coordinator for the United Nations Federation of International Astro (UNFIA), Prof Olumuyiwa Babalola, said that the federation’s presence in the country represented an exciting opportunity to elevate, empower, and integrate traditional medicine as a vital part of our national healthcare system.

     Babalola said: “Through training programmes, the United Nations Federation of International ASTRO aims to work closely with practitioners to standardise and enhance these practices, ensuring that patients receive the safest and most reliable care possible.

    “We envision creating certification programmes and accreditation systems in partnership with Nigeria’s health ministries.

    “These initiatives will not only build trust between traditional practitioners and the public but also provide traditional medicine with a respected place in Nigeria’s broader healthcare system.”

    In his welcome address, the South-West President of NANTMP, Samson Soyoye, said the workshop became imperative so that the members could broaden their horizons on they could go about doing their business without running foul of the laws  of the land.

    Other dignitaries at the event we’re: Prince Babatunde Adele, Registar Traditional Medicine Board Lagos State; Chief Nurudeen Olaleye Alternative Medicine Board; Professor Titilayo Hassan Consultant,  Federal Ministry of Health and more.

  • FG reiterates commitment to combat neglected tropical diseases, others

    FG reiterates commitment to combat neglected tropical diseases, others

    …as public health experts call for system overhaul

    The federal government has reiterated its commitment to addressing neglected tropical diseases and other public health challenges in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for collective action from all stakeholders.

    During Thursday’s second APIN Public Health Initiatives annual symposium in Abuja, Prof. Muhammed Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the government’s determination to tackle public health issues through collaboration across sectors.

    Pate stressed the importance of working together to address diseases like malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases, which continue to burden poor communities.

    Represented by Nse Akpan, Director of Port Health Services, the Minister acknowledged that significant progress has been made in reducing major diseases but emphasized that more work is needed.

    “Malaria, HIV, and Tuberculosis are the leading public health diseases that are dropping but we still have a lot to do.

    “That’s why the government is working toward a One-Health approach to integrate all programmes and tackle diseases effectively,” he said.

    Pate also underscored the importance of sustainable local initiatives and partnerships, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting stakeholders in creating a healthier Nigeria, saying, “By working together, we can secure our future and achieve a disease-free society”.

    He pointed out that the government is adopting a Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) to address pollution, sanitation, and other health-related challenges.

    In his opening remarks, Prosper Okonkwo, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of APIN Public Health Initiatives, called for an overhaul of Nigeria’s healthcare system. He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep flaws in the country’s preparedness for health crises.

    Okonkwo highlighted that while the pandemic weakened strong health systems, weaker systems, like Nigeria’s, were nearly destroyed.

    He insisted that healthcare infrastructure must be prioritised, with improvements in workforce, resources, and regulations.

    “We failed during COVID-19 when we had to send samples abroad for testing, and results often arrived too late to save lives.

    “We must improve our local diagnostic capacity to ensure timely responses,” Okonkwo said.

    He also called for universal health insurance and greater access to care, emphasizing that many Nigerians cannot afford healthcare without immediate cash in hand.

    Okonkwo further stressed the importance of community mobilization and communication, noting that public trust is essential in any health crisis.

    Read Also: One-third of Nigerians, Ghanaians likely to develop kidney diseases -Study

    “If community leaders deny the existence of a disease, it undermines the response efforts,” he warned.

    He emphasized that effective public health campaigns require the engagement of all sectors of society, ensuring that people understand and participate in disease prevention.

    Addressing the need for intersectoral collaboration, Okonkwo explained that health security is not limited to the health sector alone. “Preparedness isn’t just about health; it involves education, transportation, finance, and more,” he said.

    He called for a cultural shift, viewing health as a national security issue. “It’s not enough to react to outbreaks; we must build systems that can endure,” he added.

    Chikwe Ihekweazu, Assistant Director-General at the World Health Organisation (WHO), also emphasized the need for resilient health systems and institutions in Nigeria in his keynote address.

    He called for stronger digital infrastructure, streamlined workflows, and enhanced staff capacity through training and resources.

    “External funding must be leveraged to build domestic capacity,” Ihekweazu said, stressing the importance of local ownership of health programs.

    Ihekweazu warned that weak institutions perpetuate a cycle of dependence and called on countries to invest in their health systems.

    “The question is how do we build institutions that will not only respond to today’s crises but also lay the foundation for long-term self-reliance?

    “External partners are supportive, but leadership, expertise, and execution must rest with those closest to the challenges.”

    Representatives from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also underscored the need for international collaboration to combat health threats.

    Funmi Adesanya, PEPFAR’s Coordinator, reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to working with Nigeria to maintain HIV epidemic control beyond 2030.

    McPaul Okoye of the CDC highlighted the importance of accurate data collection and urged continued efforts in preventing gender-based violence and ensuring comprehensive care.

    According to Prof. Oladapo Shittu, the Board Chairman of APIN Public Health Initiatives, the symposium served as a timely reminder that global health security depends on building resilient health systems, strengthening collaboration across sectors, and ensuring that countries, like Nigeria, are equipped to respond to both current and future health challenges.

    Through sustained efforts and partnerships, he noted, stakeholders can aim to secure a healthier, disease-free future for Nigeria and beyond.