The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed a fresh spike in Lassa fever infections, with nine new cases recorded between July 28 and August 3, 2025, across Edo, Ondo, and Taraba states, a threefold increase from the three cases reported the previous week.
Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or droppings, remains endemic in parts of Nigeria
The agency’s latest situation report for epidemiological week 31 showed that the disease’s toll continues to mount, with 836 confirmed cases and 156 deaths recorded so far this year, translating to a case fatality rate of 18.7 percent.
The figure is higher than the 17.3 percent fatality rate reported during the same period in 2024.
According to the report, Lassa fever has now been confirmed in 21 States and 105 Local Government Areas (LGAs), although the vast majority of cases remain concentrated in five States.
Ondo accounts for the highest burden, with 33 percent of all confirmed infections, followed by Bauchi with 23 percent, Edo with 17 percent, Taraba with 14 percent, and Ebonyi with 3 percent.
The remaining 16 affected States collectively account for 10 percent of cases.
The NCDC report noted that the most affected demographic is young adults aged 21 to 30, with cases ranging from infants to elderly patients aged 96.
The male-to-female ratio among confirmed infections stands at 1 to 0.8, indicating a slight predominance among men.
While the week under review saw no new infections among healthcare workers, the agency warned that the overall number of suspected and confirmed cases remains significant, even though the year-to-date figures are slightly lower than in 2024.
The National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) continues to coordinate the national response, working with state authorities to strengthen surveillance, improve early detection, and ensure rapid treatment to reduce fatalities.
Public health officials are urging communities to adopt preventive measures, including improved hygiene, proper food storage, and early reporting of symptoms such as fever, weakness, and bleeding.
The NCDC reiterated that prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving survival rates and reducing the disease’s spread, particularly in high-burden states.
Nigeria has become the first national regulatory authority in Africa to sustain the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Maturity Level 3 (ML3) status for the regulation of medicines and vaccines, it emerged on Tuesday.
The milestone is a critical prerequisite for vaccine manufacturing, representing a major boost to public health confidence while strengthening the country’s global trade prospects for medical products approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
It also enhances the nation’s standing in the international pharmaceutical sector.
Tanzania (2018), Ghana (2020), Egypt (2022), Rwanda (2024), Senegal (2024) and Zimbabwe (2024) have all attained MP3 but Nigeria became the first to sustain it.
The recognition of the country’s ML3, effective until June 30, 2025, comes after WHO officials conducted assessments in Abuja and Lagos between November 25 and 29, 2024, alongside five follow-up Institutional Development Plan meetings held between February and May 2025, NAFDAC Director General (DG), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye said.
Adeyeye said the agency, in collaboration with the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), is now pursuing Maturity Level 4 status and WHO-Listed Authority recognition, a milestone that would ease global market access for Nigerian-approved products.
Speaking at a joint news conference with the PCN Registrar and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Babashehu Ahmed, in Abuja, Adeyeye said the achievement followed a rigorous Maturity Level 3 re-benchmarking exercise, a mandatory audit to confirm that the regulatory agency is maintaining the required standards.
According to her, the evaluation, conducted in collaboration with NAFDAC and PCN, reviewed the country’s progress in meeting over 260 sub-indicators and implementing more than 800 recommendations from the previous assessment.
“The successful closure of all critical recommendations reaffirms Nigeria’s stable and integrated regulatory system.
“All critical recommendations from the 2022 benchmarking were addressed, Adeyeye noted, reaffirming that NAFDAC and PCN operate a stable, integrated system.
“WHO evaluated nine regulatory functions, including Market Authorization, Market Control, laboratory testing, and regulatory inspection.
“Collaboration between NAFDAC and PCN proved essential for ensuring licensing, manufacturing oversight, and coordinated inspections,” she said.
However, the DG emphasized that Nigeria is already focused on achieving the next stage of WHO validation, noting that progress is well underway, with 27 of the 57 Maturity Level 4 indicators already closed, ongoing retraining of pharmaceutical inspectors, and continuous alignment of regulatory practices with international standards.
PCN Registrar, Babashehu Ahmed, reiterated that both agencies are already closing Maturity Level 4 indicators, retraining pharmaceutical inspectors nationwide, and aligning their processes with global best practices.
He added that the collaboration between the two regulators is further demonstrated by their joint leadership of the newly inaugurated Federal Task Force, established to combat substandard medicines and unsafe food.
“This milestone will attract investment, create jobs, and advance Nigeria’s goal of universal health coverage.
“These achievements will not only protect public health but also strengthen Nigeria’s reputation, attract investment, and create jobs,” Ahmed emphasized.
Nigeria has retained the World Health Organisation (WHO) Maturity Level 3 (ML3) status for the regulation of medicines and vaccines, reaffirming its position as a continental leader in pharmaceutical oversight.
The milestone was announced on Tuesday during a virtual press conference jointly addressed by NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) Director-General, Prof. Ibrahim Ahmed.
NAFDAC said WHO officially confirmed the feat on June 30, 2025, following a rigorous re-benchmarking exercise and institutional follow-up meetings.
The assessment, held in Abuja and Lagos between November 25 and 29, 2024, was followed by five Institutional Development Plan (IDP) meetings between February and May 2025 to track progress on critical recommendations.
According to the agency, the closure of all such recommendations signalled that Nigeria now operates a stable, well-functioning, and integrated regulatory system for medicines and vaccines.
“NAFDAC and PCN remain the first national regulatory authority in Africa to sustain WHO’s ML3 rating — a benchmark that enables countries to manufacture vaccines and trade approved products globally.
“With about 260 sub-indicators and more than 800 recommendations under ML3, the re-benchmarking audit confirmed that NAFDAC has maintained the stringent standards required for regulatory excellence.”
The achievement also advances Nigeria towards Maturity Level 4 (ML4), which has 57 indicators — 27 already closed and 30 remaining — and is a key step towards becoming a WHO-Listed Authority (WLA).
NAFDAC said the status boost strengthens public confidence in its approved medical products, supports universal health coverage, and enhances Nigeria’s image and economy while creating jobs.
“This is great news for Nigeria’s public health, the economy, and our global standing,” Prof. Adeyeye said, pledging to sustain the standards that earned the WHO endorsement.
The Ondo State Government on Monday said 12 cases of monkeypox, known as M-pox, have been recorded in the State.
Victor Adefesoye, the Director of Disease Control of Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (OSPHDA), disclosed this at the stakeholders’ meeting on mpox vaccination in Akure.
Adefesoye said the discovery was made in eight local government areas saying there is a need to contain the spread of the contagious diseases with vaccination
“The disease is with us in Ondo State, particularly in these local government areas: Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East and Odigbo,” he said.
However, he said the state will begin the vaccination between August 11 and 21 to targeted people who are above 18 years old and above.
Adefesoye declared that the vaccination is safe and free, stressing that it would also apply to close relatives, contacts, and health workers who have come in close with the infected persons.
“They already have the disease, and we will also vaccinate their close relatives, contacts, and health workers that have handled them.
“We anticipate that, though we have contacted them, some may still feel reluctant to take it. We encourage you as stakeholders to encourage them and be vaccinated,” he said.
The Director added that the targeted people would be given two doses of the injectable vaccine at different intervals.
He, however, asked the people of the state to imbibe the culture of personal and environmental sanitation for a good and healthy society.
The coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has emphasised the urgency for Nigeria to strengthen its health sovereignty and reduce dependence on donor funding.
Pointing to the decline in global health funding interventions, the Minister said Nigeria’s health sector is currently financed predominantly from domestic sources, with external funding accounting for less than 10 percent of total expenditure, underscoring the need for the country to take full ownership of its health financing.
Pate spoke in Abuja on Monday at the generative workshop, organised by the National Technical Working Group on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, where he explained that health accounts data from 2005, noting that 90% of Nigeria’s health spending is domestic with one-third from public funding and two-thirds from private out-of-pocket expenses.
This, he said, reflects the need to boost public investment while lessening the burden on households.
The workshop, themed ‘Designing a Transition Pathway to Self-Reliance in Financing Essential Health Services in Nigeria’, convened national and sub-national leaders, development partners, civil society, and technical experts to develop strategies for sustaining essential health services during the 2025–2028 transition period.
Pate stressed that the federal government has already increased allocations to health and released funds for essential commodities.
However, he called on State governments to match this commitment by directing more resources towards HIV, TB, malaria, family planning, and reproductive health services.
“The federal government has done its part, but with increased revenues flowing to the States, we expect them to contribute significantly to programmatic costs and commodities.
“Nigeria cannot build a healthy nation on the back of other people’s money.”
The Minister highlighted the growing risks of over-reliance on donors, pointing to recent suspensions and reductions in foreign assistance.
He argued that the current global health financing model is unsustainable and vulnerable to shifts in international priorities, saying, “We must reinforce sustainable, country-led systems, strengthen local institutions, and take full program ownership”.
One key aspect of this shift, Pate noted, is fostering domestic pharmaceutical production, urging development partners to use Nigeria’s national systems rather than parallel structures and to patronise local manufacturers.
“We must develop the muscle to produce what we need. Buying local strengthens our capacity and safeguards against supply disruptions,” he added.
Pate also emphasised the importance of governance reforms to ensure better coordination and accountability in the health sector, which he said includes integrating services across disease areas, leveraging existing institutional frameworks, and improving efficiency in resource use.
On concerns that the workshop’s recommendations might be ignored, Pate reassured participants that recommendations from the technical working group have already informed budget appropriations and are guiding real-time sector-wide reforms.
He, however, reaffirmed the Federal government’s commitment to building a resilient health system, noting, even with limited resources, Nigeria’s political will is at the highest level to meet the health needs of its citizens.”
The Global Fund commended stakeholders for their collaboration in advancing its objectives, despite ongoing uncertainties in global funding.
In a virtual goodwill message to the workshop, the Fund’s representative noted that principal recipients, sub-recipients, technical partners, multilateral agencies, and government bodies had worked together effectively during the recent review process.
The Fund noted that a clear and shared vision for integration had emerged for the next 18 months of the current grant cycle, driven by the leadership of the Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) and the coordinated efforts of implementing partners.
The Fund reaffirmed its commitment to supporting partners and ensuring that grant priorities are delivered as planned.
Earlier, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Temitope Ilori, explained the purpose of the gathering, noting that it was designed to enable Nigeria to take the driver’s seat in health sector financing by leveraging existing government structures and mobilising domestic resources to guide policies on maternal and child health, reproductive health and other related programmes.
“Though we are a middle-income country, we have the political will. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is listening, responsive, and has already facilitated resources to ensure there are no gaps.
“The President has shown strong political will in ensuring Nigeria takes the lead, and we are encouraging State governments to complement the Federal effort,” Ilori stressed
Echoing the call for national ownership of health sector financing, Ilori said, “We must invest more of our own resources to protect the health of our people”.
The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has urged the Federal Government to subject the new National Industrial Relations Policy in Nigeria to further tripartite partners’ scrutiny and inputs when going through legislative processes at the National Assembly.
The union urged the government to look at the holistic industrial relations system and the social partners’ standard rules of engagements and adherence to international best practices.
JOHESU’s position is contained in a statement signed by its National President, Ado Minjibir and National Secretary, Martins Egbanubi in Abuja where it rejected the policy for allegedly criminalising strikes.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris had announced the new policy after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting of 31st July, 2025.
The union said that the statement negated the fundamental right of workers to freedom of association and right to strike contained in the International Labour Organisation Convention 87 adopted in 1948 of which Nigeria is a signatory and had since been domesticated.
The statement said: “JOHESU is particularly worried that the Policy is targeted according to the minister on workers and their trade union organisations rather than looking at the holistic industrial relations system and the social partners’ standard rules of engagements and adherence to international best practices.
“It is rather unfortunate that, the organised labour is serially been blackmailed by the ruling class as being responsible for industrial actions, whereas on the contrary: most if not all trade disputes and strikes are caused by the Government and or employers who perennially violate Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), Memorandum of Understanding (MoV), court Judgements, etc. . . :
“While JOHESU is not averse to having a robust National Industrial Relations Policy in Nigeria, we however call on the Federal Government to subject the Policy to further tripartite partners’ scrutiny and inputs when going through legislative processes at the National Assembly.”
JOHESU urged the Federal Government to activate and strengthen the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC) for effective and sustainable tripartite engagements in ensuring best practices in labour administration and adherence to international labour standards and extant labour laws in Nigeria.
JOHESU comprises of four registered Unions namely, Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWU), Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutions and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI), Non Academic Staff Union of Universities, Educational and Associated Institution (NASU) affiliated to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) respectively.
For many women, unwanted facial hair, particularly on the jawline, face, and upper lip can be a source of discomfort, self-consciousness, and even emotional stress.
While it is completely natural for women to have fine facial hair, some experience thicker or darker growth due to hormonal changes, genetics, or underlying health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This can make grooming a constant battle, affecting confidence and sometimes leading to social anxiety.
Fortunately, there are several safe and effective methods to reduce or completely remove unwanted facial hair. The right choice depends on your budget, skin sensitivity, and desired results.
Below are eight proven ways to tackle the problem:
1. Threading
Threading is an ancient hair removal technique that uses a twisted cotton thread to pluck hair from the root. It is precise and effective for shaping and removing hair on the upper lip, jawline, and chin. Results usually last 2–4 weeks, and it’s relatively inexpensive.
2. Waxing
Facial waxing removes hair from the root, leaving the skin smooth for weeks. It can be done with soft wax strips or hard wax beads. However, waxing may not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin as it can cause redness or irritation.
3. Tweezing
Tweezing is perfect for removing a few stray hairs on the jaw or chin. It is inexpensive and can be done at home, though it is not ideal for larger areas because it is time-consuming.
4. Depilatory Creams
These creams contain chemicals that dissolve hair just below the skin’s surface. They work quickly and are painless, but you must do a patch test first to avoid allergic reactions or burns.
5. Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning uses a special blade to gently scrape away fine hair (peach fuzz) and dead skin cells, leaving the face smoother and brighter. It is usually done by professionals but can be done at home with the right tools.
6. Laser Hair Removal
Laser treatment targets hair follicles with light energy to reduce future growth. It is a long-term solution and works best on darker hair and lighter skin, though new technology now caters to more skin tones.
Electrolysis uses a tiny electric current to destroy hair follicles permanently. It is effective for all skin and hair types, but it requires multiple sessions and can be more expensive.
8. Natural Remedies
Some women prefer natural methods such as turmeric and chickpea flour paste, papaya enzyme masks, or sugar-lemon scrubs. While results are slower, these remedies can gently reduce hair growth over time without harsh chemicals.
Facial hair in women is natural, but if it bothers you, you have multiple safe and effective options to choose from. Whether you prefer professional treatments for lasting results or at-home solutions for quick fixes, the best method is one that suits your skin type, budget, and comfort level.
A Non-governmental Organisation, CrimsonBow Sickle Cell Initiative, has urged the federal government to increase budgetary allocation to the health sector and review polices on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria.
The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CrimsonBow, Miss Timi Edwin, made the call at a routine end of the month free Sickle Cell Disorder Clinic for 400 patients.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the clinic, supported by Lafarge Africa, afforded patients routine and genotype tests, medical consultations, free medication, vaccination and other empowerments.
Edwin noted that efforts should be made to prevent sickle cell disorders rather than spending huge money for its treatment.
She said: “We feel there is a need to come from the preventative point of view rather than the treatment.
“I would like President Bola Tinubu to please increase the budgetary allocation to health because that will cascade to people like us who need to receive healthcare on routine basis.
“We want the government to ensure policies are implemented; let’s even reevaluate policies that affect people living with NCDs and from there, things will get better.
“People living with sickle cell need to see doctors regularly, they need to get their medications and test done.
“This is what we are facilitating and ensuring it is done free of charge for them to live healthier lives.”
Describing funding as a challenge, Edwin expressed gratitude to Lafarge Africa for sponsoring the clinic.
Urging Nigerians to stop stigmatising people living with sickle cell, the founder advocated creation of a comfortable environments where patients’ mental health would be nurtured.
“We (patients) are already going through a lot, we will like people and government to show us kindness, love and support to better our lives,” she said.
Earlier in her opening speech, the CEO of CrimsonBow Sickle Cell Initiative, said that the mission was to improve the lives of sickle cell warriors.
“For years, CrimsonBow has worked to ensure that warriors have access to the care, support, and information they need to live healthier, fuller lives.
“We have seen the struggles — from delayed diagnoses, high treatment costs, and limited access to specialised care — and we have committed ourselves to be part of the solution.
“This clinic is not just about medical check-ups; it is about dignity, hope, and empowerment.
“It is a safe space where warriors are reminded that they are not alone, and where parents and caregivers can find guidance and community,” Edwin said.
Commending Lafarge Africa for choosing to invest in the health and future of sickle cell warriors, she described the partnership as a shining example of how the private sector can play a life-changing role in public health.
Edwin said: “Together, we are proving that corporate social responsibility is not just a phrase, but a force that can transform lives.
“To our volunteer medical team — your dedication is the heartbeat of this clinic. To our guests and community members — your presence here today reminds us that advocacy is strongest when we stand together.
“Let us remember, every consultation, every test, every smile shared today is a step toward a future where sickle cell disorder no longer steals potential, dreams, or lives.”
Speaking, Mrs Ginikanwa Frank-Durugbor, Head, Corporate Communications, Brand and Events, Lafarge Africa, said that the company was very proud to be in partnership with CrimsonBow Sickle Cell Initiative to improve health condition of patients.
Frank-Durugbor said: “Health and safety is a social imperative for us and one of our CSR pillars.
“So, whenever we see such opportunities to contribute to the wellbeing of residents in our host communities, we take it up.
“Our commitment to making lasting impact goes beyond health and safety, and also extends to education, infrastructure and youth empowerment.
“This partnership with CrimsonBow is a meaningful one and supports our purpose of building impactful progress for people.
“We are very happy to see the extent to which they (CrimsonBow) have gone to improve the lives of the people that have the disease”.
Counselling the warriors, a medical expert, Dr Dina Nwanali, urged the parents of the sickle cell warriors to be resilient and mentally strong for their children, especially during their crisis.
Nwanali called for more attention for sickle cell warriors, saying a lot of them could not afford medications necessary to keep them in good health.
Speaking on the impact of the cold weather on patients, the medical expert urged parents to always give warriors warm food, cold-preventing clothes, and ensure regular hydration for their safety.
A beneficiary, Mr Joshua Iyeke, who described as challenging, living with sickle cell anaemia, called on well meaning Nigerians and governments to come together to ease the burdens on warriors.
“It is really expensive living with sickle cell, but with gestures like this, we get our routine drugs free.
“To single people out there, love is not enough, know your genotype and avoid bringing any child to this world who will go through this pain,” Iyeke said.
Also, Mr Badru Wasiu, who brought a sister to benefit from the free clinic, commended the CrimsonBow Initiative and its partners for remembering millions of people living with sickle cell.
Advocating policy to remove all stigmas from sickle cell warriors, Wasiu urged Nigerians to support patients.
A 39-year-old sickle cell warrior, Miss Ifeoluwa Oladeji, said: “It has not been easy but I have been managing it using my drugs; and I know my limit.
“I want to advise policy makers to ensure new born genotype screening policy and support the carriers with medication,” he said. (NAN)
For many women, belly fat is one of the most stubborn and frustrating areas to target. While cosmetic procedures like liposuction may seem like a quick fix, they come with high costs, health risks and no guarantee of lasting results.
The good news is that you can shed excess belly fat naturally by making healthy lifestyle changes that work with your body’s metabolism rather than against it. By combining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindful daily habits, women can achieve a flatter, healthier stomach without going under the knife.
Here are 10 natural ways women can lose belly fat:
1. Eat balanced, whole-food diet
Focus on nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Minimise processed foods, excess sugar, and refined carbs, which can lead to weight gain around the midsection.
2. Prioritise protein in every meal
Protein helps you feel full for longer, reduces cravings, and supports muscle maintenance. Include sources like eggs, beans, fish, chicken, or plant-based proteins in your diet.
3. Cut down on sugary drinks
Sodas, energy drinks, and even some fruit juices are packed with sugar, which increases belly fat. Replace them with water, herbal tea, or lemon-infused water to stay hydrated without hidden calories.
Combine cardio workouts like brisk walking, jogging, or dancing with strength training exercises. Building muscle helps burn more calories,even at rest ,while cardio boosts fat loss.
5. Do targeted core exercises
While spot reduction alone won’t burn belly fat, strengthening your core muscles through planks, leg raises, and bicycle crunches can tone and shape your midsection.
6. Manage stress levels
High stress can trigger the hormone cortisol, which is linked to fat storage in the abdominal area. Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or hobbies you enjoy.
7. Get enough sleep
Poor sleep disrupts metabolism and hormone balance, increasing hunger and fat retention. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night to support weight loss.
8. Stay consistently active throughout the day
Small lifestyle changes—like taking the stairs, walking short distances instead of driving, or stretching at intervals—can increase calorie burn over time.
9. Drink more water
Staying hydrated boosts metabolism, reduces water retention, and helps control appetite. Start your day with a glass of water and keep sipping throughout the day.
10. Be patient and consistent
Natural belly fat loss takes time. Focus on sustainable habits instead of quick fixes, and celebrate small milestones along the way to stay motivated
BHIN, led by its Programme Manager, Olajoke Akinyemi, engaged hundreds of traders, tricycle riders, and shoppers in an interactive outreach campaign aimed at promoting awareness of brain health and preventing neurological disorders.
BHIN, which was founded by a neurologist, Dr. Temitope Farombi, is dedicated to increasing access to brain health information across Nigeria.
This year’s World Brain Day theme, “Brain Health for All Ages,” underscored the importance of brain wellness throughout every stage of life.
At Bodija market, the BHIN team demystified common brain-related conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, depression, and chronic headaches.
They also educated attendees on warning signs of brain disorders including memory loss, seizures, mood swings, and speech difficulties.
In addition to the health talks, the team distributed easy-to-understand materials and shared practical lifestyle tips to help maintain brain health.
The event received warm reception from the market community, with participants expressing deep appreciation, with many asking insightful questions and sharing personal stories, which the BHIN team patiently addressed.
One of the traders said: “This kind of knowledge is rare in the market setting. Now I know what signs to look out for in myself and my family.”
Speaking after the event, Akinyemi emphasised the importance of taking brain health to grassroots communities.
She said: “Brain health is everyone’s business. By coming to places like Bodija Market, we’re making sure that information reaches the people who need it the most, in a language they understand.”
BBHIN’s outreach reflects its commitment to bridging the gap between medical knowledge and public understanding, especially in underserved areas.
BHIN’s work in Ibadan stands as a powerful reminder that community engagement is key to national health transformation.
