The Nation Newspaper

Category: Health

  • Health insurance: Lagos steps up health insurance management, launches regulatory portal

    Health insurance: Lagos steps up health insurance management, launches regulatory portal

    The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has launched the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS) regulatory portal to strengthen health insurance governance as part of its ongoing efforts to achieve universal health coverage for its citizens.

    Developed by PharmAccess Foundation with support from the Global Fund under the Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSH) grant, the portal aims to enhance the management of health insurance in Lagos State.

    The comprehensive web-based portal will store, manage, and retrieve data related to health insurance agencies, including registered corporate organizations, healthcare providers, and health maintenance organizations (HMOs) in Lagos State.

    The portal sets a new standard for health insurance regulation and management in Lagos State.

    At the recent handover ceremony held at LASHMA’s new office, the Agency’s Permanent Secretary, Emmanuella Zamba emphasized the commitment of the Lagos State government to explore every option that would lead to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for the residents.

    Others at the event included Njide Ndili, Country Director of PharmAccess; Tosin Awosika, Regulations Coordinator at LASHMA; Sefiu Oladejo, Technology and IT Manager at LASHMA; and Ademola Ade-Serrano, Innovation Manager at PharmAccess.

    Given this, she noted that the State had to be innovative, which led to exploring the critical role the regulatory portal will play in ensuring compliance and efficiency in health insurance regulation across the state.

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    “Health insurance is now mandatory, and we must be at the top of our game. Setting up this portal would help us, as it would play a pivotal role in getting health coverage for all in Lagos state.

    “The investment made by PharmAccess will be cherished, with the portal serving its intended purpose of advancing health insurance oversight”, Zamba said.

    Emphasizing the importance of partnerships in implementing people-centred policies, she said the regulatory portal was a result of the collective effort with PharmAccess.

    She said the importance of continued partnership in driving forward the health insurance mandate in Lagos cannot be overemphasized, adding that strong collaboration is key to realizing the ambitious goal of UHC.

    “PharmAccess would be remembered with their names in gold for being the first organization to support LASHMA when we started the Regulations department.

    “We appreciate all the years of collaborative efforts, and we hope that as we enter this new phase, our collaboration will be stronger, and we will create history together by demonstrating how UHC can be achieved in Nigeria,” she said.

    In her remarks, PharmAccess Country Director Ndili, while reflecting on the four years of extensive collaboration between PharmAccess and LASHMA, emphasized the importance of the regulatory portal in advancing healthcare in Lagos.

    She assured of PharmAccess Foundation’s commitment to supporting LASHMA and the Lagos State government in their pursuit of universal health coverage for its citizens, saying “The journey started four years ago and it is truly revolutionary now that both the NHIA Act and the LSHS Law have mandated health insurance for every Nigerian.

    “The portal’s transformative potential in shaping the future of health insurance regulation in the State is immeasurable.

    “This is because strengthening digital public infrastructure is essential to achieving UHC, and the success of this portal demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can make a difference”.

    Ndili also affirmed the foundation’s commitment to remaining a steadfast partner with LASHMA in advancing the healthcare goals of Lagos State and Nigeria.

    Ade-Serrano, the project development lead, highlighted that strengthening Nigeria’s digital public health infrastructure, exemplified by the LSHS Regulatory Portal, is crucial for achieving universal health coverage by improving efficiency, scalability, and the capacity of public health agencies.

  • Online medical school not recognised in Nigeria, MDCN warns

    Online medical school not recognised in Nigeria, MDCN warns

    …reaffirms standards for foreign-trained medical practitioners

    The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has declared that online medical schools are not recognised in Nigeria.

    The council affirmed that the practice of medicine requires in-person clinical training, lab work, and bedside teaching, all of which are mandatory components of medical education.

    It said that final examinations for medical qualifications must include hands-on clinical assessments and cannot be conducted virtually.

    The council said it remains committed to upholding the highest standards in medical and dental education and practice in the country.

    This is as the council declared all foreign-trained medical and dental practitioners who have successfully passed the Foreign Trained Medical and Dental Graduates (FTMDG) Assessment Examination and received full registration as now being recognized as fully registered professionals authorized to practice in Nigeria.

    This followed the practitioners being deemed to have met all statutory educational requirements as outlined in the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act CAP M8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

    This includes earning the MBBS degree (or its equivalent), completing the required horsemanship, and obtaining the necessary certificate of experience.

    The Council asserted that fully registered medical and dental practitioners who meet statutory requirements, including the MBBS degree, horsemanship, and certificate of experience, must also fulfil annual registration obligations.

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    While the practitioners are authorized to practice in Nigeria, the Council stressed the importance of renewing their Annual Practising Certificate every year.

    These emerged in separate statements monitored on the MDCN website on Tuesday night where the council emphasised that these professionals must renew their Annual Practising Certificate every year to maintain their licensure.

    The council emphasized that its commitment to ensuring high standards in the medical field extends beyond the registration process, adding that it has been active in navigating the challenges posed by recent global disruptions, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic and conflicts in Ukraine and Sudan, which have significantly impacted the education of many aspiring medical and dental practitioners.

    In response to the challenges, the MDCN said it introduced several remediation pathways aimed at alleviating the difficulties faced by students whose studies were disrupted.

    One such initiative was the implementation of a six-month remediation program for students who had nearly completed their medical or dental studies in Ukraine before the war halted their progress.

    This program, held at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital and supervised by medical professionals from the University of Abuja, was designed to ensure that the students could complete their education and be eligible to sit for the MDCN examinations in September 2024.

    Students who had not completed their studies by 2022 were offered alternative pathways to achieve their qualifications.

    They were advised either to return to their foreign universities to complete their studies or to transfer to accredited Nigerian universities.

    The Council noted that several students from Sudan and Ukraine have successfully integrated into Nigerian medical schools through this pathway, with some already completing their studies.

    These graduates, it said, will not be required to take the FTMDG exams if they graduate from an accredited Nigerian institution.

    The Council expressed its sympathy for students affected by the disruptions and assured them of its ongoing support.

    The Council, however, restated that it is open to arranging further remediation programs for any students confirmed to be part of the 2022 set, subject to discussions and reviews with key stakeholders.

    It noted that its actions underscore its dedication to maintaining the integrity of medical and dental education in Nigeria.

    The Council also assured that it will continue to abide by the rules and regulations for the study of medicine, ensuring that all practitioners in the country meet the rigorous standards required to provide safe and effective care to patients.

  • Over 1,000 persons receive NNPCL free eye-care services

    Over 1,000 persons receive NNPCL free eye-care services

    Over 1,000 individuals have benefited from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) eye-care services.

    The company flagged off the third edition of the Vision First Programme, as part of comprehensive community-focused healthcare outreach targeted at the Ilaje community and its environs in Bariga, Lagos State.  

     Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye made this known in a press statement yesterday.

    The Vision First programme is a continuation of NNPC Ltd/ SNEPCo Production Sharing Contract (PSC) commitment to advancing health and well-being within its host communities.

    The statement said: “Through this initiative, over 1,000 individuals will receive free eye care services, alongside a range of general healthcare provisions.”

    The services include cardiovascular screening, BMI assessments, laboratory services, consultations, treatment of mild and chronic diseases, and distribution of insecticide-treated nets. 

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    Since its inception, the Vision First programme has made a significant impact, with over 1,853 individuals benefiting from free eye care services.

     The Lagos edition, which began in 2022, has screened 2,000 people, provided 1,199 prescription glasses, administered medication to 1,310 beneficiaries, and facilitated successful procedures for 189 individuals.

    The initiative is also aligned with the Mallam Mele Kyari-led Management commitment of making positive impact in NNPC Ltd’s host communities and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians through sustainable partnerships.

    In his remarks, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (CUIO – NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti stated that the Vision First Plus programme represents a commitment to restoring hope and improving lives within NNPC Ltd commour communities.

    “Through this programme, we aim to ensure that preventable vision challenges do not hold anyone back. By providing eye screenings, corrective lenses, surgeries, and general healthcare, we’re dedicated to bringing clarity and brighter futures to those who need it most,” Wunti, who was represented by Mrs. Bunmi Lawson, added.  

    The outreach emphasized the significance of proactive health management, highlighting that healthy eyes lead to a brighter future. Attendees were encouraged to protect their vision through regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and adequate rest. 

    The Vision First programme embodies the spirit of collaboration and the essence of giving back to the communities where NNPC Ltd operates. It also signifies the Company’s commitment to investing in social initiatives that leave a lasting positive impact.  

  • We’ve what it takes to be FUOYE’s Teaching Hospital – FETHI CMD

    We’ve what it takes to be FUOYE’s Teaching Hospital – FETHI CMD

    The management of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti (FETHI) has said the health facility has what it takes to become Teaching Hospital to Federal University, Oye Ekiti, (FUOYE).

    The hospital stated FETHI already has experience on its side alongside facilities, equipment and personnel, expressing hope that FUOYE would capitalize on them. 

    FUOYE is to commence using FETHI as teaching hospital and clinics for its medical students following approval by the Federal Government.

    Speaking at Ido Ekiti while playing host to members of FUOYE Council and Management, who were on a fact-finding visit, FETHI Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Adekinle Ajayi lauded commitment of FUOYE’s political leadership, saying it would ensure mobilization of needed resources to improve quality of medical education and consequently the capacity of health workforce to effectively care for Nigerians.

    According to him, medical education is capital intensive so the hospital and University must partner to ensure that the required facilities are made available for the students to have quality training.

    He canvassed support of the University Council for the managements of FUOYE and FETHI “to be able to bequeath to the people of Nigeria professionals and health workers who will give us hope for survival when we require their services.

    He said: “We are lucky because we have experience. As at today, we have trained six sets of medical doctors for Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti and by November, we will be producing the seventh set. We are more than prepared.”

    On the strength of FETHI, Ajayi said: “We have over 100 consultants in different fields of medicine. We have about 180 resident doctors currently in training in this hospital. We have over 400 nurses in different areas of specialisation, we have about 38 pharmacists”, among others.

    Read Also: Pro-chancellor unveils plan to make FUOYE Africa’s best varsity

    FUOYE Governing Council Chairman, Engr. Kayode Ojo, who hailed the CMD for what is on ground, assured that his institution’s partnership with FETHI to train students would boost medical education in the country.

    Ojo, who assured that necessary steps would be taken to do the needful to facilitate aggressive improvement of FETHI, said the council would look urgently into the issue of hostel accommodation for the students at the teaching hospital.

    The FUOYE Chairman said: “Repositioning medical education and the health sector should not be compromised. Our task as a council is to make things better. We will support the management. Standard health facilities are key. That is why an institution like this is crucial and we must improve it.

    “I am extremely interested in seeing how we can improve this health institution so that it can benefit the students, the personnel and also the hospital as it relates to the community,” Ojo said 

    FUOYE Vice Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi Fasina, said the visit was for the Council to have first-hand information, “so that it will take very good decision on the way forward on how we can pump infrastructure into this place to really train our students properly”.

    The VC, who expressed satisfaction with FETHI, said, “It is in view of what is here that we are bringing our students here. We got a letter of approval from the Federal Government to use this place as our clinics, our teaching hospital and our workshop. 

    “We are very glad to bring our students here. I am so confident that with the best of lecturers, they have it here in FETHI. With 100 consultants, 180 resident doctors, we are good to go and the patients are there.”

  • NAFDAC denies claims of warning against Nigerian bread

    NAFDAC denies claims of warning against Nigerian bread

    The director general of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mojisola Adeyeye, has refuted claims that she advised Nigerians to avoid bread baked and sold in the country due to the presence of saccharine, a banned sweetener.

    She said NAFDAC never issued any statement suggesting that Nigerian bread is unsafe for consumption.

    The denial came in response to a viral video by a social media influencer who claimed that NAFDAC had advised Nigerians to avoid locally baked bread because samples had failed laboratory tests due to the presence of saccharine.

    The influencer also alleged that Nigerian bakers have turned to saccharine as a substitute for sugar, which has become prohibitively expensive due to inflation.

    In a statement on Tuesday, August 27, Adeyeye confirmed that saccharine is indeed banned in bread production in Nigeria, in line with global health guidelines due to its potential health risks to consumers.

    She emphasized that NAFDAC, as a vigilant regulator, has been actively sanctioning bakers who violate this regulation while emphasizing that the social media influencer does not represent or speak on behalf of NAFDAC.

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    She said: The attention of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has been drawn to a video circulating on social media titled: Bread sold in markets failing laboratory tests, NAFDAC raises fresh alarm.

    “The reporter stated that NAFDAC had raised a concern that “most of the bread in the market are failing laboratory tests because producers are using saccharine to bake bread more than they are using sugar due to the high cost of sugar. The reporter went on to tell Nigerians to avoid bread in Nigeria.

    “As a responsive regulatory Agency, NAFDAC wishes to provide clarification that the content of the video on avoiding bread in Nigeria does not reflect the observation of NAFDAC which was made during a stakeholders’ engagement held on 16th August 2024 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    “At no time during that engagement with stakeholders did NAFDAC suggest that Nigerians should avoid bread baked and sold in Nigeria.

    “The Agency is a responsible regulator and does not make general statements capable of causing panic and fear in the population.

    “Any baker found to be using unapproved food additives, in this case, saccharine, is appropriately sanctioned in line with the extant regulatory provisions.

    “The Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) does not permit the use of saccharine in bread.

    “This is the same for the Codex General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA), an authoritative reference point for food additives, which also does not permit the use of saccharine in bread.

    “Like other food additives, sweeteners usually undergo thorough risk assessments for safety by an expert body, the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) before approval for use.

    “NAFDAC dissociates herself from the comment of the reporter in the circulating video about avoiding bread in Nigeria. This is the personal statement of the reporter who does not speak for the Agency.

    “NAFDAC wishes to reassure the public that the Agency remains fully alive to her responsibilities of safeguarding the health of the public.”

  • Ganiyat Popoola: NARD embarks on seven-day warning strike

    Ganiyat Popoola: NARD embarks on seven-day warning strike

    The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) began a seven-day warning strike on Monday, August 26, in response to the kidnapping of its member, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who was abducted nearly eight months ago.

    NARD president, Dele Abdullahi, announced the strike on Sunday, revealing that the decision was made during an Emergency National Executive Council meeting. Abdullahi noted that during the strike, no emergency care or concessions would be provided.

    NARD stated that the strike aims to prompt further government action to secure the release of the kidnapped doctor.

    Read Also: 10 reasons why you should get enough sleep

    Members of NARD have previously protested in all tertiary hospitals nationwide, demanding Dr. Popoola’s release.

    “The strike is commencing by midnight today. It’s for seven days. It’s a warning strike, and it’s total.

    “During the strike, there will be no concessions, and there will be no emergency care,” he said.

    Recall that Popoola who is also a Registrar in the Department of Ophthalmology at the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, was abducted alongside her husband and nephew on the 27th of December, 2023.

    However, Popoola’s husband was released in March 2024, but the abducted doctor and her nephew remain in captivity.

  • 10 reasons why you should get enough sleep

    10 reasons why you should get enough sleep

    Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human life, playing a critical role in our physical and mental well-being. Despite its importance, many of us neglect to prioritize sleep, leading to a range of negative consequences.

    Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining optimal health, cognitive function, and overall quality of life.

    Here are 10 reasons why you should make sleep a priority:

    Improves cognitive function: Sleep is essential for brain function, memory consolidation, and learning. During sleep, the brain processes and consolidates information, strengthening neural connections and transferring information from short-term to long-term memory.

    Boosts immune system: Sleep plays a crucial role in immune function, with research showing that sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of illness.

    Enhances physical health: Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other physical health problems.

    Supports mental health: Sleep is essential for mental health, with sleep disturbances often being a symptom of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

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    Increases productivity: Getting enough sleep is critical for productivity, with well-rested individuals performing better in work and daily activities.

    Improves mood: Sleep affects our emotional state, with sleep deprivation leading to irritability, mood swings, and decreased emotional regulation.

    Supports weight management: Sleep influences appetite hormones, metabolism, and weight regulation, making it essential for maintaining a healthy weight.

    Enhances athletic performance: Sleep is critical for physical recovery, muscle repair, and athletic performance, with many professional athletes prioritizing sleep as part of their training.

    Increases safety: Drowsy driving and workplace accidents are common consequences of sleep deprivation, highlighting the importance of getting enough sleep for safety.

    Promotes longevity: Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to a shorter lifespan, making sleep a critical factor in promoting overall health and longevity.

    1. 10 fruits ulcer patients can eat

      10 fruits ulcer patients can eat

      Most people think fruits are not of high importance or essential to ulcer patients which is not true.

      Here are 10 fruits which help ulcer patients:

      Papaya: Papaya contains a powerful enzyme called papain, which aids in the digestion of proteins. It is also rich in vitamin A, C and E.

        The enzymes and nutrients in papaya can help soothe and protect the stomach lining which helps reduce ulcer discomfort.

        Banana: Banana are one of the most recommended fruits for ulcer patients due to their soothing and protective effects on the stomach. It helps protect against acid damage and can promote the healing of ulcers.

          The anti-inflammatory properties of bananas can help reduce inflammation in the stomach and digestive tracts, which is beneficial for ulcer patients.

          Coconuts: Coconuts, particularly coconut water and coconut oil are very beneficial to ulcer patients. It contains anti-bacterial compounds such as lauric acid, which can help combat Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori), the bacteria often responsible for causing stomach ulcer.

          Green Apples: Green Apples have a relatively low acid content compared to other fruits, making them less likely to irritate the stomach lining.

            It as high dietary fiber such as pectin which helps to regulate bowel movements and can soothe the digestive tract. Green apples also as a high water content, which helps keep the body hydrated.

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            Melons: Melons like cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon are beneficial to ulcer patients as they are low in acid, making them gentle on the stomach. It also as high water content which helps to dilute stomach acid, reducing its potential to irritate the ulcer.

              Melons are good source of vitamins and minerals, which makes them a suitable option for ulcer patients who need to avoid foods that are difficult to digest.

              Pears: The natural compounds in pear can help a soothing effect on the stomach lining. It contains antioxidants such as Vitamin C and copper, which helps protect the stomach lining from oxidative stress and damage.

                Eating pears also helps reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach, providing relief from the discomfort associated with ulcers.

                Avocados: Avocados are high in monounsaturated fats, which are healthy fats that help protect and repair the stomach lining. It contains oleic acid and is packed with nutrients such as Vitamin C, E, K, B6 as well as folate and potassium.

                  The combination of healthy fats, fiber and nutrients in avocados supports overall digestive health which is crucial for managing and healing ulcer.

                  Mangoes: Mangoes contains enzymes like amylase that aid in digestion, which is beneficial to ulcer patients. It is high in Vitamin A, C, antioxidants and fiber which support overall health and aids healing.

                    The vitamins and antioxidants in mangoes supports the immune system and contributes to the repair and healing of the stomach lining.

                    Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins which improves the digestive tract and reduces oxidative stress.

                      It also contains dietary fiber which maintains regular bowel movements and alleviates symptoms of digestive discomfort. Blueberries are relatively low in acidity, making it the best option for patients who needs to avoid acidic foods.

                      Sweet Ripe Peaches: Ripe Peaches has a relatively low acidity which helps to avoid exacerbating ulcer symptoms. It as a good source of Vitamin A and C that aids ulcer healing.

                        It also as antioxidants which as anti-inflammatory effects that could help reduce inflammation in the digestive system.

                      1. Five ways to improve your sleep

                        Five ways to improve your sleep

                        Sleep is like a mini vacation for your body and mind! It’s when you rest and recharge so you can tackle the day ahead feeling refreshed. Sleep is very important to the human body and mind. 

                        A lot of people battle with insomnia or bad sleeping schedule. Most teens need 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. But many have trouble sleeping.

                         Lack of sleep can affect your mood, relationships, and ability to pay attention. When you don’t get enough sleep, it’s hard to be at your best in school and sports. It can increase the chances of getting sick, gaining weight, and having an accident if you drive when you are drowsy. 

                        Here are some ways to improve your sleep:

                        1. Establish a consistent sleep schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock.

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                        2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Wind down before bed with calming activities like reading, taking a warm bath, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, listening to music, spending time with a pet, writing in a journal, meditating, or doing anything else that relaxes you. 

                        3. Make your bedroom sleep-friendly: Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows to create a cozy sleep environment.

                        4. Limit screen time before bed: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your sleep. Try to avoid screens like phones, tablets, and computers at least an hour before bedtime.

                        5. Watch your diet and exercise: Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime. Regular exercise can promote better sleep, but try to avoid vigorous exercise right before bed.

                        These tips can help you improve the quality of your sleep and wake up feeling more rested.

                      2. Sygen, ORx Pharmaceuticals forge strategic alliance to transform Africa’s healthcare

                        Sygen, ORx Pharmaceuticals forge strategic alliance to transform Africa’s healthcare

                        Sygen Pharmaceuticals Limited, based in Lagos, and Canadian ORx Pharmaceuticals Corporation have announced a landmark collaboration to form Sygen-ORx Biosciences, a transformative joint venture aimed at advancing healthcare in Africa. Sygen-ORx Biosciences is set to revolutionise healthcare by addressing pharmaceutical drug security challenges through innovative collaboration.  This partnership merges ORx Pharmaceuticals’ cutting-edge expertise and patented technologies in drug development with Sygen Pharmaceuticals’ commitment to scientific rigour and innovation.

                        ORx Pharmaceuticals, affiliated with the Toronto Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, North America’s leading postgraduate institute for pharmaceutical technology and research—is renowned for its dedication to advancing medical science and enhancing patient care. With a track record of delivering transformative therapies and earning industry recognition, ORx Pharmaceuticals brings a wealth of experience to this venture. Sygen Pharmaceuticals, celebrated for its pioneering approach and commitment to healthcare excellence, complements ORx’s strengths, creating a powerful synergy aimed at delivering groundbreaking healthcare solutions in Africa.

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                        Sygen Pharmaceuticals has cemented its role as a leading force in improving healthcare in Nigeria by developing high-quality medications and expanding access to innovative treatments. In a groundbreaking move, Sygen has partnered Canadian ORx Pharmaceuticals Corporation to form Sygen-ORx Biosciences, a joint venture poised to drive significant advancements in the pharmaceutical sector.

                        This collaboration unites the vision, expertise, and commitment of both organisations to enhance patient outcomes and address critical challenges in pharmaceutical drug security.

                        By combining their resources, knowledge, and capabilities, Sygen-ORx Biosciences Limited aims to accelerate the development and commercialisation of pioneering therapies, meet unmet medical needs, and broaden healthcare access for patients globally.

                        As outlined in their agreement, the JV will focus on improving formulations of generic pharmaceuticals. The emphasis will be on products with clinical efficacy, regulatory approval, and a history of commercial success.

                        Also, Sygen-ORx Biosciences will spearhead innovative drug discovery programs and work to reduce costs while increasing access to high-quality branded generic medicines throughout Africa. In addition to launching the joint venture, Sygen and ORx will offer substantial support to Sygen-ORx Biosciences, drawing on their extensive experience in global drug discovery, development, commercialisation, and distribution. This support will harness their expertise to foster open innovation in early-stage drug discovery, aiming to expedite the development of novel therapies and drive advancements in the pharmaceutical field.

                        “Sygen-ORx Biosciences will build upon the foundation of excellence established by ORx and Sygen, ushering in a new era of healthcare innovation. With a shared commitment to scientific excellence and integrity. Sygen-ORX Biosciences is positioned to make a significant impact in the healthcare landscape, shaping the future of medicine for generations to come,” said Dr Alexander MacGregor, ORx Pharmaceuticals CEO.

                        “Collaboration is at the heart of our mission at Sygen Pharmaceuticals, and we are excited to embark on this transformative journey with ORx Pharmaceuticals.  As Sygen ORx, we have the opportunity to amplify our impact and drive innovation in healthcare, ultimately improving the lives of patients in Africa and beyond. Through our partnership, we can leverage our strengths to deliver impactful solutions that address critical medical challenges and advance patient care,” said Charles Ogunwuyi, Sygen Pharmaceutical CEO.