The Nation Newspaper

Category: Health

  • World Salt Week: NHED rallies support for mandatory sodium limits, clear food labels

    World Salt Week: NHED rallies support for mandatory sodium limits, clear food labels

    The Network for Health Equity and Development (NHED) has called for urgent policy action to address excessive salt consumption in the country. 

    The public health advocacy group said its call is driven by alarming data showing that average salt consumption in Nigeria far exceeds global health standards. 

    It attributed the trend to the widespread use of bouillon cubes, processed foods, and sodium-rich street meals often consumed without consideration for their harmful effects on the body, likely due to limited public awareness.

    The group made the call in commemoration of World Salt Awareness Week 2025, themed ‘6 Ways to 6 Grams’, while unveiling a series of activities lined up for the week.

    Read Also: FG sets limits for sodium in salt, bread, biscuits, processed meats, vegetables, others

    It said this year’s campaign, running from May 12 to 18, aims to empower Nigerians with practical strategies to reduce daily salt intake in line with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 6 grams.

    As part of its advocacy, NHED is championing the adoption of regulatory measures such as mandatory sodium reduction targets and front-of-pack warning labelling (FOPWL). 

    These tools, the organization says, are essential in promoting transparency in food production and protecting public health.

    “Reducing salt intake is not just a personal choice, it’s a policy issue. Mandatory sodium targets and front-of-pack warning labels on packaged foods can transform food environments, help consumers make informed choices, and ultimately save lives,” Dr. Jerome Mafeni, Project Director at NHED, said.

    Through its leadership of the Coalition for Healthy Food Advocacy, NHED assured that it will continue to push for reforms that hold the food industry accountable while encouraging healthier diets nationwide. 

    The Week’s activities, the group said, include public education campaigns, policy dialogues with stakeholders, digital outreach, and a social media challenge inviting Nigerians to share “6 ways” they are cutting down on salt. 

    Media engagements are also scheduled to raise awareness on sodium-related health risks and the urgent need for food labelling reforms.

  • Japa syndrome: Nigerian global firm tackles medical tourism with cutting-edge healthcare solutions

    Japa syndrome: Nigerian global firm tackles medical tourism with cutting-edge healthcare solutions

    The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cassona Global Imaging Limited, John Chigbu, has attributed the seemingly intractable medical tourism among Nigerians to poor access to quality healthcare caused by a lack of advanced medical equipment, limited funding, and inadequate infrastructure.

    Given this, Chigbu emphasised that the time has come for well-meaning individuals and corporate bodies to support the government in creating a robust healthcare system that reduces the need for medical tourism, which drains the economy and undermines the nation’s health sector.

    Chigbu, a United States returnee after 40 years abroad, urged Nigerians in the diaspora to return home and help promote affordable access to healthcare, which would also encourage younger Nigerians abroad to contribute their quota to national development.

    He made this call in Abuja on Thursday during the launch of his Cassona Global Imaging Limited, held in partnership with the U.S. Embassy, where he stressed the need to reverse the trend of outbound medical tourism and urged stakeholders to help position the country as a destination for healthcare excellence.

    Chigbu noted that the state of Nigeria’s health sector should concern every well-meaning citizen, revealing that this was the key factor that motivated his return after 40 years abroad.

     “We need to reverse this trend. We need medical tourism to come into Nigeria, not the other way around. We need to make quality healthcare accessible to all, not just those who can afford it.”

    Stressing that the company’s mission is to make quality healthcare accessible to all Nigerians, he added, “Cassona Global Imaging plans to set up diagnostic centres and hospitals in Nigeria, equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

    “The company will also provide training for healthcare professionals, ensuring that they are proficient in using the equipment.

    “We’re not just building hospitals; we’re building a healthcare ecosystem. We’ll provide training, maintenance, and support to ensure that our equipment is always working.

    “We need to build capacity in Nigeria. We need to train our people to take care of our healthcare needs. That’s why we’re recruiting Nigerian engineers and healthcare professionals to work with us.

    “With Cassona Global Imaging’s innovative approach, Nigeria’s healthcare sector is poised for a significant transformation, making quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for all”.

    Highlighting the company’s commitment to localising Nigeria’s healthcare system by recruiting and training Nigerian professionals, Chigu said. “We need to build capacity in Nigeria. We need to train our people to take care of our healthcare needs. That’s why we’re recruiting Nigerian engineers and healthcare professionals to work with us.

    Read Also: Japa syndrome: NANNM raises alarm as 15,500 nurses flee Nigeria

    “With Cassona Global Imaging’s innovative approach, Nigeria’s healthcare sector is poised for a significant transformation, making quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for all”

    In his remarks, Blake Murray, Foreign Commercial Service Officer for the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, described the partnership as a powerful catalyst for modernizing Nigeria’s healthcare system, emphasizing that strategic collaborations between U.S. companies and Nigerian institutions can enhance patient outcomes, lower costs, expand access to care, and strengthen disease prevention and control.

    “The U.S. Mission in Nigeria is committed to deepening bilateral trade relations between the two countries. Last year, two-way trade between the United States and Nigeria hit a record $13bn. Our shared goal is to promote two-way investment and deepen commercial ties between our nations.

    “The U.S. Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment are set to launch the United States-Nigeria Commercial and Investment Partnership next month in Abuja, prioritising collaboration in agriculture, digital economy, and infrastructure, including healthcare infrastructure.”

    “This partnership is expected to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement in Nigeria.

    “By working together, the U.S. and Nigeria can address pressing healthcare challenges and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians.”

    Blake noted that Cassona Global Imaging’s investment reflects the growing interest of U.S. companies in Nigeria’s healthcare sector and highlights the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships that can foster progress and shared prosperity in both nations.

    The governments of Katsina, Niger, and Abia States expressed interest in partnering with Cassona Global Imaging Limited to leverage its expertise in improving healthcare outcomes for their citizens, while a national commercial bank announced its board’s decision to finance all of Cassona’s projects across the country.

  • Fidson celebrates 30th anniversary with record growth

    Fidson celebrates 30th anniversary with record growth

    In a year marked by global economic headwinds, supply chain disruptions, and persistent currency volatility, one Nigerian pharmaceutical company has emerged resilient and triumphant. Fidson Healthcare Plc, a wholly Nigerian company, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with record-breaking financial performance, unmatched operational growth and a renewed commitment to shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria and beyond.

    With a commanding market capitalisation of N44.64 billion as of April 2025, Fidson stands as Nigeria’s largest pharmaceutical company—a position earned through consistent innovation, strategic foresight, and an unwavering focus on delivering world-class healthcare solutions. The recently released audited financial statements for 2024 tell a story not just of financial success but of deliberate, values-driven growth in a challenging environment. In 2024, Fidson recorded revenue of N84.2 billion, a staggering 59% increase from N53.1 billion in the previous year. Net profit soared by 60% to N5.78 billion, while profit before tax rose to N7.7 billion, marking a 30% increase. Earnings per share climbed from 157 kobo to 252 kobo, and the net asset per share grew by 23% to 1,034 kobo—figures that underscore the company’s value creation and appeal to investors.

    Speaking on the outstanding performance, Mr. Imokha Ayebae, the company’s Finance Director, credited the achievement to “operational efficiency, prudent financial management, and a strong relationship with critical stakeholders in the Nigerian market.” This performance has prompted the Board of Directors to propose a significant increase in dividend payout—from N0.60 to N1.00 per share, totalling N2.29 billion—a move that reflects both financial health and confidence in sustained profitability.

    At the heart of Fidson’s success lies its world-class manufacturing infrastructure. The company’s facility in Ogun State is not only WHO-compliant but also built to meet the most rigorous global benchmarks in pharmaceutical production. According to Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Biola Adebayo, Fidson has been investing heavily in manufacturing since it began local production in 2002. “In line with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), we’ve continuously upgraded our production capabilities to meet growing demand while reducing dependency on imports,” Adebayo explained.

    In 2024 alone, the company invested more than N3.7 billion in property, plant, and equipment—demonstrating strategic focus and a long-term view of national pharmaceutical independence. Fidson’s ability to produce high-quality medications—from tablets and syrups to large volume parenterals (LVPs) and injectables—has set it apart in Nigeria and across Africa. With an annual production capacity exceeding 120 million bottles, Fidson is now the continent’s leading LVP manufacturer. It also stands as Nigeria’s only manufacturer of glass-ampoule injectables, significantly contributing to national health security and the affordability of essential medicines.

    Read Also: I’m healthier after leaving office, says Buhari

    But manufacturing is only half the story. Fidson has also built an expansive and robust logistics and distribution network that ensures timely delivery of products nationwide. Operating 11 purpose-built depots across all geopolitical zones of Nigeria, the company guarantees product availability in hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies—a critical factor in a country where access to timely medication can be a matter of life and death. Plans are underway to expand this infrastructure even further, with new depots in the pipeline to improve coverage and efficiency. This reliability has cemented Fidson’s reputation as a brand that patients and healthcare providers can trust, regardless of location.

    Fidson’s success is also deeply rooted in its people. With a workforce of over 1,709 employees, the company fosters a culture anchored in professionalism, inclusivity, and continuous learning. It maintains a strict non-discrimination policy, offering equal opportunities across all levels and roles.

    As it marks three decades of excellence, Fidson is not resting on its laurels. The company is actively exploring expansion into new African markets, with strategic investments in infrastructure, talent, and partnerships. Its long-term vision includes deeper penetration into regional markets and stronger ties across the healthcare value chain. “Our ambition is to make quality healthcare affordable and accessible—not just in Nigeria but across Africa,” said a senior executive familiar with the company’s strategic roadmap. Already, Fidson is in advanced talks with partners to scale its export capabilities and strengthen regional health resilience. This outward-looking vision is backed by responsible corporate citizenship. In 2024, Fidson spent N248 million on corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, focusing on health outreach, educational support, and environmental sustainability. These efforts demonstrate a company deeply rooted in community engagement and long-term social impact.

  • Over 6,000 Osun residents benefit from Lions Clubs’ free eye care initiative

    Over 6,000 Osun residents benefit from Lions Clubs’ free eye care initiative

    More than 6,000 residents across various communities in Osun State have benefitted from the free medical eye care initiative of the Lions Clubs International Foundation, aimed at addressing eye health challenges among underserved populations. The ongoing outreach, which recently held at Ile-Ogbo—the headquartres of Ayedire Local Government Area—has been described as a lifeline for many residents battling vision-related problems but unable to access quality care. According to the organisers, the programme has so far been held in over twenty communities across the state since its inception.

    Speaking during the event, the Outreach Officer for the Lions Eyecare Development Project in Osun State, Mrs. Olufunmike Odesanmi, explained that the initiative began approximately four years ago to bridge the gap in healthcare access, especially at the grassroots. “Many people in rural communities lack access to proper healthcare,” she said. “When they experience eye problems, they often resort to self-medication or patronise over-the-counter shops, which frequently worsens their condition. That’s why we are taking the services directly to them.”

    Read Also: 6,000 Osun residents benefit from Lions Clubs’ free eye care initiative

    She emphasised that the initiative is open to all, including young people, and provides a range of services such as eye examinations, medication, prescription glasses, laser therapy, and even surgical referrals. “We don’t just screen; we treat,” Odesanmi added. “Some beneficiaries with minor refractive errors are given corrective lenses, while those diagnosed with cataracts are referred to the Lions Eye Center at the State Specialist Hospital in Asubiaro, Osogbo, for surgery.”

    She noted that the outreach has visited over twenty communities so far, with each hosting an average of 300 attendees. “Altogether, we’ve attended to over 6,000 people. Specifically for this Ile-Ogbo outreach, 323 people have received treatment,” she said. The initiative has received widespread praise from community members, particularly the elderly who are disproportionately affected by vision problems. One of the leaders of the Ile-Ogbo United Forum, Mrs. Aderonke Ojo, commended the Lions Clubs for the humanitarian gesture. “This programme is a blessing to our community,” Ojo said. “Many of our elderly people suffer from eye issues but can’t afford proper treatment. The Lions Clubs have brought not just relief, but hope.”

  • 901 PHCs upgrade – laying the foundations for a healthier future

    901 PHCs upgrade – laying the foundations for a healthier future

    When President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, expectations were high that his “Renewed Hope” agenda would deliver tangible improvements in key sectors. Nowhere was this hope more critical than in Nigeria’s ailing primary healthcare system. Today, a significant milestone in that agenda has been achieved—the revitalisation of 901 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the country.

    Announced by the Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) on Tuesday, this milestone is being hailed as a bold and essential step toward reversing decades of neglect in the country’s frontline health institutions. According to TMV Chairman Mr. Chukwudi Enekwechi, the upgrade of the 901 PHCs forms part of the administration’s broader goal of providing at least one functional PHC in every electoral ward in Nigeria. “The federal government’s ultimate plan is to provide round-the-clock health services to Nigerians,” Enekwechi said, stressing that the development reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to the well-being of citizens at the grassroots.

    For years, PHCs—designed to be the first point of contact for Nigerians seeking medical care—have been plagued by inadequate infrastructure, lack of drugs and a shortage of trained personnel. These weaknesses have contributed to high rates of maternal and infant mortality, vaccine-preventable diseases, and the general collapse of preventive medicine in rural areas. President Tinubu’s approach, as outlined in his Renewed Hope Health Agenda, involves a phased upgrade of over 8,800 PHCs, many of which had been abandoned or underutilised. The first visible result—the successful rehabilitation of 901 centres in less than two years—signals serious intent. The administration has also committed to revamping an additional 2,700 PHCs by the end of 2025, a scale-up praised by health observers and policy advocates.

    Health analysts believe the significance of the PHC upgrade cannot be overstated. “This is about more than brick and mortar,” said Dr. Fawas Zakari, a public health expert. “Revitalising PHCs means improving access to vaccines, maternal health services, malaria treatment, and even community-based health education.” Solar power installations, digital health records, improved drug supply chains, and clean water systems are now being integrated into the upgraded centres. The goal is to make these facilities functional 24/7—an aspiration long promised but rarely achieved. This renewed focus on PHCs is also aligned with efforts by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) under Dr. Muyi Aina, which has taken on the challenge of ensuring that no Nigerian is farther than five kilometres from basic healthcare services.

    Read Also: I’m healthier after leaving office, says Buhari

    Despite progress, concerns about sustainability linger. Human resource retention—especially in rural communities—remains a major challenge. Additionally, ensuring adequate drug supplies, regular monitoring and consistent funding is essential to prevent upgraded centres from falling back into disrepair. Some observers have called for improved synergy between federal, state, and local governments to streamline service delivery, especially given the multiplicity of actors involved in primary health.

    For the Tinubu administration, the success of the PHC revitalisation project is not just a policy win—it is also a political one. It counters narratives of neglect in the health sector and reinforces the President’s image as a reformer who is gradually delivering on his promises. “Contrary to suggestions in certain quarters that the health sector was being neglected, it is actually getting a new lease of life,” Enekwechi emphasised, adding that the administration is “focused on delivering in all sectors” of its mandate.

  • Let’s debunk pregnancy myths with facts-Celebrity Nurse Esther 

    Let’s debunk pregnancy myths with facts-Celebrity Nurse Esther 

    With so many myths surrounding pregnancy still circulating, Celebrity Nurse Esther is on a mission to set the record straight.

    “Too many women are making life decisions based on hearsay,” she said. “Things like ‘you must eat for two’ or ‘you can’t exercise while pregnant’ are misleading and even dangerous.”

    Esther, a registered nurse with a growing online audience, uses social media to correct misinformation around maternal health. 

    Read Also: Hold governors accountable, not just Tinubu, APC chieftain tells Nigerians

    Her videos, often presented with humor, focus on helping women separate fact from fiction.

    “Pregnancy is a delicate journey. Women deserve to be equipped with real knowledge, not fear-based beliefs,” she said.

    She encouraged women to consult professionals and avoid depending solely on traditional advice or social media trends.

  • Lagos lecturer seeks N10m support for urgent kidney treatment

    Lagos lecturer seeks N10m support for urgent kidney treatment

    A 56-year-old former lecturer at the Lagos State College of Education, Mr. Ogungbe Oluseyi Mawuton, is appealing to well-meaning Nigerians for financial assistance as he battles to recover from chronic kidney disease that has drained his life savings and left him with massive debts.

    Mr. Mawuton, who is currently undergoing post-surgical treatment following complications linked to diabetes and hypertension at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre in Abuja, is seeking N10 million to help offset mounting medical bills and repay loans taken to fund his treatment.

    “I have spent an estimated N100 million since this battle began in 2021,” he said. “I sold my land and other properties, borrowed money from friends and family, and took out loans, all in a bid to stay alive.”

    Once an active academic, Mr. Mawuton has been unable to work for over three years due to the severity of his illness. He said the condition, which developed as a complication of diabetes and hypertension, has taken a devastating toll on every aspect of his life.

    “This illness brought down everything, my physical health, career, finances, and even my family life. Many times, I’ve been separated from my family,” he said. “Personally, I have never lived a reckless life. I don’t smoke or drink, but I was told the kidney disease developed as a result of long-standing diabetes and hypertension. I was being managed for these before things worsened,” he explained.

    While his recovery is showing signs of progress, the financial burden remains overwhelming.

    “Recovery is going well, to the glory of God,” he said, “but I am in dire need of assistance. I need help to repay the massive debts I incurred during treatment. I still owe the hospital a huge amount, and I have loans to repay from different sources.”

    Mawuton noted that while Nigerian healthcare professionals are doing their best, the medical system is heavily skewed in favour of the wealthy.

    Read Also: Anti-malaria drugs, genotype Aa and kidney disease (1)

    “If you seek quality medical care in this country, you need tonnes of money. It’s a system that doesn’t favour the average person like me. The doctors and nurses are trying, but they are overwhelmed with work,” he lamented.

    Mr. Mawuton credited his survival so far to the grace of God, the support of family members, and the encouragement of well-wishers.

    “What has kept me going is faith, hope, and the kindness of people around me. But I need help to fully recover and reclaim my life.”

    He is appealing to the public to assist him in raising the needed N10 million to pay his outstanding hospital bills and settle debts accumulated during his treatment.

    Donations can be made to:

    Bank: United Bank for Africa (UBA)

    Account Name: Ogungbe Oluseyi Mawuton

    Account Number: 2006009188

    Mawuton continues to receive treatment at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, Atom Kpera Close, Gudu District, Abuja , a renowned hospital for nephrology and kidney-related interventions.

    For further information or to reach out directly, well-wishers can contact Ogungbe’s family through the hospital or call him at 08035741914. 

  • UNICEF, GAVI donate four ambulance boats to boost healthcare in Bayelsa riverine communities

    UNICEF, GAVI donate four ambulance boats to boost healthcare in Bayelsa riverine communities

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) have donated four fully-equipped ambulance boats to the Bayelsa State Government, in a continued effort to strengthen healthcare and emergency response in the state’s remote riverine areas.

    The latest donation follows the six ambulance boats provided last year by the international agencies. The gesture marks another significant step toward overcoming the healthcare access challenges faced by residents in hard-to-reach communities, where transportation barriers often hinder timely medical intervention.

    Funded by GAVI and its partners, the boats are outfitted with essential medical equipment, making them suitable for emergency care and safe patient transport.

    The ambulance boats are particularly vital for transporting patients, especially pregnant women and newborns, to nearby medical facilities, helping to ensure prompt and potentially life-saving access to healthcare services.

    Alongside the ambulance boats, UNICEF and Gavi donated a 30kVA soundproof generator to the Bayelsa State Primary Healthcare Board.

    This, according to them, will enhance operational efficiency, ensuring that healthcare services can function effectively, even in areas with unstable power supply.

    The bodies contended that the initiative not only aimed to provide emergency medical assistance but also to support Immunisation outreach programmes in isolated communities, thereby improving overall healthcare delivery and contributing to public health goals in the region.

    During the handover ceremony at the Government Jetty, Ms. Judith Leveillee, Chief of Field Office at UNICEF Nigeria, emphasized the critical role of these boats in improving health outcomes in hard-to-reach areas.

    Her remarks highlighted the commitment of UNICEF and its partners to enhance healthcare accessibility for vulnerable populations.

    She said the initiative underscored the importance of innovative solutions in addressing healthcare challenges in remote areas.

    Leveillee noted that by improving access to medical services, the ambulance boats would play a crucial role in saving lives and enhancing health outcomes in Bayelsa State, particularly in its riverine communities.

    She said the collaboration between UNICEF, GAVI, and the Bayelsa State government represented a proactive approach to healthcare delivery, showcasing how strategic partnerships could lead to meaningful improvements in public health infrastructure.

    Leveillee stated: “The provision of these ambulance boats represents a critical step towards ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to lifesaving healthcare services.

    “The boats would serve not only as transportation for patients but also as mobile platforms for delivering essential healthcare interventions, including immunisations, antenatal care, and health education directly to those in need.”

    Reflecting on the event, Leveillee remarked, “I believe the rain and lightning during today’s event inspire us to navigate the creeks and bring healthcare to the vulnerable and less privileged.”

    She expressed gratitude to GAVI, WHO, and all health workers involved in the project, commending their efforts in improving healthcare delivery in Bayelsa.

    According to her, the project has employed between 800 and 900 health workers in the state.

    She urged the Bayelsa State government to integrate this workforce to maintain the progress achieved so far.

    “We are also handing over a generator to ensure the boat house is fully operational,” she said, reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment to supporting the state’s healthcare initiatives.

    Read Also: UNICEF moves to tackle polio vaccine myths in Bauchi

    Receiving the items on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, expressed gratitude to UNICEF and its partners, describing the gesture as lifesaving.

    “For us as a state, we believe no mother or child should die from preventable complications,” Brisibe said.

    “Public health should not lead to any mortality in our society. This is the foundation upon which we work, and with partners like WHO and UNICEF, we are achieving tangible results,” the health commissioner said.

    He assured the partners that the ambulance boats would be put to effective use to promptly evacuate mothers and children in need of urgent medical attention.

    In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary of the Bayelsa Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Appah Williams, revealed that UNICEF and GAVI had previously donated six ambulance boats under the Health Systems Strengthening (HSS) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

    The event marked another step forward in bridging the healthcare gap in Bayelsa rural communities, with stakeholders pledging continued collaboration to enhance health services across the state.

  • Community pharmacists back innovative Malaria contest for students

    Community pharmacists back innovative Malaria contest for students

    Community pharmacists across the country have expressed strong support for youth-led initiatives, particularly those within educational institutions, aimed at raising awareness and promoting the control of malaria in Nigeria.

    They emphasised that such support is crucial, given Nigeria’s alarming malaria burden. 

    According to current statistics, the country recorded approximately 66.7 million cases and over 189,000 deaths from malaria in 2022, figures that place Nigeria among the most affected nations globally.

    The pharmacists’ endorsement came during a courtesy visit by Ambrose Ezeh, the National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), to Geneith Pharmaceuticals in Lagos, where he formally endorsed the Geneith Health Competition, a pioneering initiative focused on combating malaria among Nigerian youth.

    The meeting was attended by Mr. Umenwa Emmanuel, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Geneith Pharmaceuticals, and Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, CEO of CEOAfrica, along with other stakeholders.

    Emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in combating malaria, Ezeh said, “The fight against malaria is a collective effort. 

    “It requires the involvement of all sectors, government, private organizations, and communities to devise innovative solutions that make a real impact.” 

    According to him, the collective efforts of all stakeholders are essential, especially given the urgency of the situation, as an alarming 95% of students seeking treatment at tertiary institution health centers are diagnosed with malaria.

    Responding, Geneith Pharmaceuticals’ CEO, Emmanuel, explained that the company was motivated to sponsor the novel malaria competition for secondary and tertiary students due to its unwavering commitment to malaria prevention and control.

    Emphasizing the pivotal role of young people in reshaping Nigeria’s public health narrative, Emmanuel noted that their involvement in such campaigns is not only timely but also highly impactful.

    “We decided to fund this project as a way of supporting the fight against malaria. 

    “Eliminating this disease in Nigeria will become a realistic goal, especially since our target audience, youth and students, are the driving force behind any vision that needs to be realized,” he said.

    CEOAfrica MD, Ilobanafor, in his remarks, while expressing strong support for the Geneith Health Competition, described it as a historic milestone in youth engagement, saying, “This initiative is designed to empower the youth and ensure that we can win this fight against malaria in the shortest time possible. 

    “The youth are energetic, innovative, and possess the potential to be change-makers,” he said. 

    Ilobanafor noted that the alarming statistics that a significant number of Nigerian students visiting health centers do so for malaria treatment underscore the urgent need for targeted intervention. 

    “This program aims to empower students to become malaria ambassadors who will advocate for prevention and awareness within their communities, he explained. 

    Read Also: Malaria: FG backs N1billion Geneith Health student competition 

    Emphasizing the scale of the initiative, Ilobanafor pointed out that the impressive investment in overall support makes the initiative the largest health competition of its kind in Africa. 

    “We urge other patriotic Nigerians to follow Geneith’s example and join us in this vital fight against malaria. 

    “By focusing on youth-led action, the competition seeks to illuminate practical pathways towards a malaria-free society, promoting collective efforts at all levels, from families to entire communities,” he said. 

    While commending Geneith Pharmaceuticals for the sponsorship of the competition and Coatal Forte Softgel’s support in powering the initiative, he noted that the competition represents a beacon of hope in the battle against malaria, forging a path for youth empowerment and health advocacy.

    The competition is a joint initiative by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd and CEOAfrica, with over ₦1 billion committed to the program. 

    Of this, ₦400 million is earmarked for student prizes, and ₦600 million will go towards educational materials and gifts for participants across all 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

  • Reps seek mandatory diphtheria immunisation in 774 councils

    Reps seek mandatory diphtheria immunisation in 774 councils

    The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the National Health Care Development Agency (NHCDA) to enforce the mandatory diphtheria immunisation, testing and treatment at all healthcare centres in all the 774 local government areas in the country.

    The House also directed the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to raise public awareness through sensitisation campaigns on the dangers, symptoms, and transmission modes of diphtheria to prevent further spread and fatalities.

    Adopting a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Kwamoti Bitrus Laori, the House directed its Committee on Health and Health Institutions to assess the level of compliance with the mandatory diphtheria immunisation.

    It also directed the committee to evaluate the capacity of health institutions to effectively respond to current threat of diphtheria spread across the country.

    READ ALSO: Dangerous lust

    Laori described diphtheria as a bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium species, which has become a critical public health issue since the first outbreak in Borno State in 2011.

    The lawmaker said the disease had claimed 21 lives, adding the current resurgence posed significant threats to Nigeria’s already overburdened public health system;

    According to him, diphtheria, which affects the nose, throat, skin, and, in severe cases, the heart, is transmitted through respiratory droplets, contaminated objects, and crowded unsanitary environments. This makes its spread particularly rapid among children and those with compromised immune systems in crowded communities.

    Laori said diphtheria thrives in Africa due to low vaccination rates while remaining virtually absent in the United States of America and Europe, where vaccination coverage is high.

    The lawmaker noted that the disease primarily threatens unvaccinated individuals who travel internationally or come into contact with infected persons.

    He added that some African nations, such as Niger, Gabon, and Mauritania, have reported outbreaks with only a handful of confirmed deaths due to effective vaccination coverage, early detection, laboratory confirmation, and the availability of antitoxins and antibiotics for treatment.