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Category: Health

  • FG, partners revise policy on food safety

    FG, partners revise policy on food safety

    Policy

    By Folasade Akpan

    Abuja, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, stakeholders in the food sector and partners have revised the National Policy on Food Safety and Quality and its Implementation Plan.

    The revised policy was presented on Friday in Abuja as part of activities to commemorate the 2024 World Food Safety Day with the theme “Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected”.

    The 2024 theme draws attention to food safety management and underlines the importance of being prepared for food safety incidents, no matter how mild or severe they can be.

    Also, four inter-sectoral Technical Working Groups (TWGs) were inaugurated to provide expertise and leadership to drive effective communication, capacity building and strategic partnerships among stakeholders.

    It is part of continued efforts to strengthen and harmonise Nigeria’s regulatory environment and risk-based food safety systems, while improving industry engagement in the national regulatory processes and compliance with international food safety standards.

    The TWGs are focused on risk-based regulations and risk analysis in food and feed safety; food and Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary inspection; traceability and supporting technologies and education and research.

    In his address, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said that the policy, rooted in the one health approach, addresses a spectrum of critical areas.

    Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, Pate said it encompassed the principles of risk analysis.

    “The issue of emerging contaminants within the nation’s food chain, and the establishment of an integrated foodborne disease surveillance and response system.

    “Moreover, it sets forth benchmarks for the safe handling, marketing, and sale of food throughout our nation.

    “Moving beyond mere food safety, the policy propels us towards a future where the food we consume is not only safe but essentially healthy.

    “It lays out strategic plans to reduce the intake of Salt, Trans Fatty Acids, Sugar, and Alcohol, among others.

    “By ensuring that our diets are healthful, we aim to alleviate the growing burden of non-communicable diseases that afflict our country,” he added.

    Pate also said that the policy was a testament to the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of citizens.

    He, however, called on all citizens to contribute actively to the preservation of the purity of food.

    “Yet, the implementation of this policy is not a solitary journey. It demands the concerted efforts of all parties at both National and Sub-National levels.

    “This includes our diligent farmers who nurture the soil, the regulators who forge the guidelines, the scientists whose innovations enhance safety, and the consumers who make informed choices with every purchase and every bite.”

    Speaking to the theme of the day, he said it was a clarion call to action, a reminder that vigilance was the guardian of the nation’s sustenance.

    He said: “We live in a world of unpredictability, where the unexpected lurks around every corner.

    “It is not just the menace of foodborne diseases that we battle, but the unforeseen events that can compromise the integrity of our food supply.

    “From natural disasters that devastate crops to the menacing power of climate change, from the accidental contamination of a trusted food source to deliberate adulteration for profit, the threats are as varied as they are frightening.”

    The minister, however, assured that the Federal Government would explore public-private partnerships, leverage technology, and prioritise essential services for food safety.

    One of the partners, Kelly Scavella, Programme Manager, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS) said “the agency was partnering with the ministry and other Nigerian stakeholders to help build food safety systems that are relevant to consumers, producers and regulators’’.

    She said TWGs were set up to modernise Nigeria’s food safety regulatory framework in line with international best practices to address food safety concerns and facilitate the development of a strong agriculture and food industry.

    “Over the last decade, the Nigerian government has implemented important changes to bolster food safety by examining and enhancing critical components of the national food safety control system.

    “Harnessing the expertise of the TWGs aligns with the core mission of World Food Safety Day, emphasising the importance of collaboration and innovation in safeguarding food and feed safety.

    “As we commemorate this global initiative, the launch of these TWGs underscores Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring safe and reliable access to food across Nigeria.”

    Other partners are Food and Agriculture Export Alliance (FAEA), the University of Missouri’s Africa Food Safety Initiative (AFSI) and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Food Safety Day, marked on June 7, every year is in response to the World Health Organisation (WHO) record.

    The record states that every year, nearly one in 10 people in the world, an estimated 600 million people fall ill and 420,000 die after eating food contaminated by bacteria, viruses, parasites and chemical substances. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FOF/GOM/AMM

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    Edited by Gregg Mmmaduakolam and Abiemwense Moru

     

  • Firm, NGO partner to promote positive behaviour, moral values among children

    Behaviour
    By Aderogba George
    Abuja, June 7, 2024 (NAN) Vento International Trading Limited, an international furniture organisation, has partnered with an NGO, Advocacy for Positive Behavioural Patterns Initiative (APBPI), to promote positive behaviour and moral values among Nigerian children.
    The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Coordinator for Vento, Mrs Muberra Yigit, stated this during a courtesy visit to her office by APBPI officials, on Friday in Abuja.
    Yigit said that her organisation was passionate about education of young children, hence the need for partnering with APBPI to promote positive behaviour in the society, particularly among children.
    According to her, promoting positive behaviour among children will assist in moulding their lives, thus making them to become responsible citizens.
    She said that her company would continue to support the APBPI school programme, focusing on truancy and substance abuse.
    The Director of Campaign Team for APBPI, Mr Bamidele Mann, said that the partnership would further boost the NGO’s activities and make it to get the desired positive behaviour from Nigerian children.
    He noted that Vento’s past support had enabled APBPI to reach more children, aligning them with the right attitudes and behaviours essential for building better character.
    “We are thrilled to partner with Vento international trading limited, sharing a common goal of shaping Nigeria’s future by investing in its children,” Mann said.
    The Director, Advisory Model for APBPI, Mr Sam Obashun, thanked the firm for what it had been doing in the past, especially in the area of building a new Nigeria through children’s behaviour.
    Obashun expressed the firm’s commitment to carrying out its corporate social responsibility that would make a significant difference in the lives of the children.
    “Together, we are making positive impacts, fostering a culture of responsibility, respect and empathy among our young citizens.
    “Vento international trading limited’s commitment to CSR has made a significant difference in the lives of numerous children, promoting a brighter future for Nigeria.
    “We commend its dedication to giving back to the community and we look forward to continued collaboration,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    AG/WAS
    Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

  • Centre highlights role of NSCDC in protecting rights of PWDs

    Centre

     

    By Kemi Akintokun

    Lagos, June 7, 2024 (NAN)The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) says the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has critical role to play in ensuring the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) were protected.

    Mr David Anyaele, CCD Founder and Special Adviser (SA) to Abia Government on Disability Matters, spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of a sensitisation programme for  Disability Desk Officers of the NSCDC, in Lagos.

    NAN reports that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) was established by Act 3 of 2003 with numerous security responsibilities. This Act was amended in year 2007, to further strengthen and empower the Corps for better service delivery.

    He noted that when people have or come down with disabilities, often times, the society attributes it to something, hence the discrimination and stigmatisation.

    He said there was need for officers of NSCDC to strengthen their understanding of priority issues regarding PWDs as they have integral role to play in promoting the rights of PWDs in the society.

    “The NSCDC plays a crucial role in promoting disability rights and ensuring that PWDs are protected, inclusive and have access to justice.

    “One of the roles of NSCDC is to protect, hence the need to understand PWDs as well as the provisions of the law for them.

    “Without understanding the roles, their dynamics, you may not be able to understand PWDs.

    “This is important because you are expected to assist in times of emergencies.’’

    Anyaele urged the NSCDC to add Disability Issues as part of their roles, while emphasising the need to recruit sign language interpreters as officers too, as they will be readily available when the need arises.

    “When you recruit some sign language interpreters as officers, they will be on standby , while also doing the core job functions.

    “There will be ethical standards. By so doing, rather than having to hire interpreters every now and then when the need arises, one is already an employee of the corps and can interpret without the corps incurring additional expenses from hiring an external interpreter.’’

    Earlier, while speaking on  the “Role of NSCDC in promoting Disability Rights and Access to Justice for PWDs’’, Anyaele highlighted the importance of having a guideline in the NSCDC on how to handle disability issues and setting PWDs as priority.

    Amadu Okomayin, Head of Unit, PWD, NSCDC Lagos Command, said one of the core mandates of the NSCDC was to protect the fundamental human rights of citizens, the PWDs inclusive.

    Recognising this need as it pertains to PWDs, he said the NSCDC in all its commands, were mandated to have PWD Desk Officers being manned by a senior officer.

    Okomayin assured that the corps would continue to work toward protecting the rights of PWDs whenever it arises.

    Ms Christiana Njoku, Programme Officer, CCD, said there was need for continued advocacy to promote disability rights .

    She noted that daily, the numbers of persons with disabilities increased owing to conflicts, accidents, ailments, poor health systems among others.

    In her presentation on “Understanding Disability Rights and Model’’, Njoku made a case for mainstreaming disability whereby activities and processes should be inclusive of PWDs.

    “We don’t know who might be the next.

    “So, we all need to be concerned because eventualities such as this, most times, do not give notice and when they come, they are with lifetime consequences.

    “ Advocacy, hence, is important because anyone can be a victim at any time.’’

    “Awareness creation cannot be overemphasised because there is need for enlightenment on issues surrounding PWDs, with emphasis on the Human Rights Model,’’ she said. (NAN)
    KOA/VIV

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    Edited by Vivian Ihechu

  • NGO urges collaboration to address menstrual hygiene management

    NGO calls for collaboration initiatives to address menstrual hygiene management

    Hygiene

    By Safia Abdulrahman
    Bwari (FCT), June 7, 2024 (NAN) A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO),
    Wonder Woman, has called for increased collaboration by stakehoders to address
    menstrual hygiene issues among secondary school students in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The group’s Vice President, Anne Dirkling, made the call during sensitisation workshop at the Federal Government Girls’ Collage Bwari, FCT, on Friday.

    She said it is normal to sensitise young girls to understand menstrual health hygiene and to normalise as a natural growth pattern for the female.

    She acknowledged the struggles of girls and women in Nigeria who faced period stigma in the society, which is why the NGO came up with the sensitisation workshop.

    She added that the project in support of the French Embassy in Nigeria provided a platform for girls to learn about puberty and adolescence in a safe, open environment.

    “We have containers across the town for people to drop plastic waste, and in exchange, we distribute reusable sanitary pads and soaps,” she said.

    According to her, the plastic are not used to make pads but gather, sell to bottle recycling companies and use the funds to purchase menstrual hygiene kits for vulnerable girls and women in the society.

    “The Plastic Pads Project is conducted in partnership with other parts and Bwari Area Council by placing containers around town to collect recyclable waste.

    “The proceeds are used to provide sanitary hygiene kits, reusable pads, and soap to girls in the community,” Dirkling said.

    She emphasised the importance of normalising menstruation where girls could openly discuss and understand menstrual health, noting that “this would be possible by encouraging conversations and providing necessary products.

    “The initiative aims to empower girls, reduce school absenteeism, and ensure they remain confident and focused on their education.”

    The NGO Programme manager, Mr Kumbet Longdi, said the aim of the workshop is
    to inspire girls to take action for a period-friendly environment, thereby encouraging them to gather plastic waste in exchange for sanitary pads.

    One of the students, Blessing Efeoghene, who came overall best in the questions and answers session, commended the NGO for the initiative, saying “we will ensure that more plastic waste are gathered
    and deposited in the container given to us by the NGO.”

    Thr News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that during the programme, a container was launched at the school, and 150 menstrual hygiene kits distributed to the students.

    The group explored various aspects of menstruation, societal perceptions and the importance of menstrual health and hygiene through educative sessions and games with the students.

    NAN reports that menstruation, or period, is normal vaginal bleeding that occurs as part of a woman’s monthly cycle, indicating the absence of pregnancy. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    FIA/HA
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    Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

     

  • NIMR, partners to begin SARMAAN 2 to reduce infant mortality

    Infant
    By Kemi Akintokun

    Lagos, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) says its ongoing Safety and Antimicrobial Resistance Mass Administration of Azithromycin (SARMAAN) project is targeted at reducing infant mortality in the country.

    Prof. Babatunde Salako, the Director-General of NIMR, disclosed this at SARMAAN engagement meeting with the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Tunji Alausa.

    Salako said the project was in partnership with Sight Saver, Malaria Consortium, eHealth Africa, Federal Ministry of Health, African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET), Institute for Disease Modelling (IDM), among others.

    He explained that the first phase of SARMAAN was initiated two years ago following a recommendation from the World Health Organisation (WHO) on mass administration of Azithromycin in countries with high infant mortality rate.

    He noted that the first phase of the project, which is SARMAAN 1, had been concluded in six pilot states – Kebbi, Kano, Sokoto, Abia, Jigawa, Akwa-Ibom and Sokoto.

    Salako said: “SARMAAN project is directed at reducing under five mortality and this came up from a study supported by some funders and monitored by WHO in countries where infant mortality were high.

    “Mass Administration of Azithromycin was used in the countries and it brought about 13.8 percent reduction in which was significant in those countries.

    “The SARMAAN 1 has been concluded in six pilot states that benefited from the mass Administration where infants between one month’s to 11 months were given Azithromycin with six months intervals.

    Speaking also, Prof. Oliver Ezechi, the Principal Investigating Officer of SARMAAN, said the phase two of the project would commenced in Kano in July.

    Ezechi, a Director of Research in NIMR, said the project, which captured no fewer than 1.3 million children from one month to 11 months of age, used 3.6 million quantity of Azithromycin over six months interval

    He added that SARMAAN 2 would focused on the number of reduction in infants mortality and evaluate the safety of the mass administration of the drugs among children one to 59 months in the next four years.

    ” SARMAAN 1 was a limited research we carried out that involved two six states and the project showed that Azithromycin was safe for children and only less that two per cent of the children reported side effects common among children.

    “Before we started, we measured the antimicrobial resistance level and obtain 4.1 per cent before introducing the drugs and ensured that we are not solving one problem and starting another one.

    ” The safety perimeters shows that the drug is very good and that is why SARMAAN will be extended to children from one months to 59 months to enable us know the number of reduction in infant mortality,” he said.

    He said the project would be taken to the government after its conclusion, to be considered as a policy, alongside other existing effort put in place by the government to reduce infant mortality.

    Speaking after the presentation of report on the SARMAAN 1 research, Dr Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health, urged all participants in the project to ensure safety and imbibe good practice.

    Alausa said the President Bola Tinubu-led government would not relent in its effort to reduce the high infant mortality in the country. (NAN)
    KOA/VIV

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    Edited by Vivian Ihechu

     

     

  • 3000 residents to benefit from NGO’s free surgery

    Surgery

    By Aderonke Ojediran

    Lagos, June 7, 2024 (NAN) No fewer than 3000 residents of Ketu in Lagos State will benefit from free surgery put together by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) – Open Hands Amazing Charitable Organisation.

    This was made known on Friday in a statement by the founder of the NGO, Dr Magdalene Agada, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

    The one-day outreach will take place June 29, in partnership with Michael Catholic Church Ketu, St. Vincent Dr Paul Society Ketu.

    “We will work with some churches, it’s easier that way, religions as they say is the opium of the masses, we know we will see those who are most vulnerable.

    “Our NGO for the past five years, has put together life changing health outreaches and interventions in different states of Nigeria, like Egede, Enugu State; Ibuzor and Akomazi in Delta State.

    ”There were also free cleft pallet surgery made possible by this charity

    “This in addition to hospital equipment donated to health institutions and hospitals across Nigeria, in Rivers, Taraba, Nassarawa ,” she said.

    The philanthropist further stated that the medical outreach is not just to run test on participants but also to give drugs and stipends.

    “This time, Open Hands Amazing Charitable Organisation is poised to take its hope train to the centre of excellence, Lagos, precisely we don’t just do medical checks or give drugs, we provide balance meals and stipends to those in need.

    “With the support of my friends dependable support of Dr Josephine Ewere, and Dr Aloysius Agada, who are the pillars and strong supporters of the charity.

    “We sincerely hope that our beneficiaries conduct themselves well, we have enough to go round and I implore them to heed the advice of the medical professionals and take your drugs according to prescription.

    “Also, don’t forget to pray for the continued strength and success of the donors,” she said.

    According to her, treatment will be given for Tuberculosis, Diabetes, Renal issues, Cancer, Eye screening among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    OAF/DOE
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    Edited by Dianabasi Effiong

  • Board, UNICEF, NGO orient stakeholders on MNCH week in Kaduna

  • Nasarawa Assembly to partner Executive to retrofit General Hospitals

    Nasarawa Assembly to partner Executive to retrofit General Hospitals

    By Awayi Kuje
    Hospitals
    Lafia, June 6, ( 2024) The Nasarawa House of Assembly Committee on Health says the legialature is poised to collaborate with the executive to retrofit all the General Hospitals in the state.

    The Chairman of the committee, Mr Larry Ven-Bawa, said this on Thursday, when the members undertook an inspection tour of General Hospitals at Awe, Keana and Doma.

    Ven-Bawa said that the committee was impressed with the structures and equipment they saw at the facilities.

    He commended Gov. Abdullahi Sule for the appreciable stride made in the health sector and promised that the house would give him all the necessary legislative support to do more.

    “His Excellency, Gov. Sule has a special interest in healthcare service delivery.

    “We will give him all the necessary support to succeed in the interest of the health of our people,” he said.

    Ven-Bawa urged the hospital workers to double their commitment and dedication to their duties.

    He said, “I want to urge you to reciprocate His Excellency’s gesture by being dedicated to your duties at all times,” he said.

    The lawmaker further commended the authorities of the Hospitals Management Board, those of the General Hospitals and workers for their commitment and hardwork in ensuring that the people receive the best healthcare services.

    “The committee has seen commitment in the board and the managements of the hospitals in the discharge of their responsibilities.

    “We commend you for that and urge you to do more,” he said.

    Responding, the Chief Medical Director, State Hospital Management Board, Dr Egba Edego, thanked the committee for its commitment to the development of the health sector in the state.

    Edego said that the General Hospitals in the 13 Local Government Areas of the state were receiving massive transformation due to effective synergy between the Executive and the Legislature.

    He thanked the governor for the upgrading of the general hospitals, in terms of both the structures and modern equipment which, he said, had gone a long way in advancing the operations of the facilities.

    He, however,  expresses concern over the alleged encroachment on the hospitals’ lands.

    He, therefore, appealed for the committee’s quick intervention to checkmate the phenomenon.

    According to him, the encroachment has seriously affected five of the 17 General Hospitals in the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    AKW/USO
    Edited by Sam Oditah

     

     

     

     

  • Medical expert harps on balancing leadership, wellness

    Medical expert harps on balancing leadership, wellness
    Well-being
    By Rukayat Moisemhe
    Lagos, June 6, 2024 (NAN) The Managing Director of Iwosan Wellness Centre, Dr Oluwatomi Kogo, has urged Nigerian leaders not to neglect their health while pursuing innovation, strategy and governance.
    Kogo gave the advice at a dinner organised by the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIOD) with the theme: “Leadership and Wellness: Balancing Success and Wellbeing”.
    The event held on Thursday in Lagos.
    She said that, in the average, Nigeria was about 20 years below global life expectancy at 53.9 years against the global rate of 73.4 years.
    The medical director said that the single largest percentage of death in Nigeria was from non-communicable diseases such as heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, cancer and other cardiovascular diseases.
    She said that the percentage of death was 74.
    Kogo said that some of the common causes of  non communicable diseases were smoking, sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, obesity, stress and harmful use of alcohol.
    “We are contributing to the rise in non-communicable diseases by generally being reactivity instead of proactivity, and taking the easy way out, of popping pills, instead of lifestyle modification,” she said.
    She listed other contributing factors to include preference for animal-based nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, fast meals because of work pressure, and belief that the fat child is the one ‘enjoying life’.
    “Leaders and directors are busy juggling
    multiple demanding responsibilities and ending up neglecting personal well-being
    “They sacrifice sleep, exercise and quality time with loved ones which is very important for wellness.
    “The way forward is to adopt a good plant-based nutrition, reduce animal protein consumption to once or twice a week, get enough rest and restorative sleep, exercise, spend quality time with loved ones, and have a good mindset on your journey to extreme health,” she said.
    In his remarks, Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, President of CIoD, said that the event’s theme reflected a crucial shift in the country’s corporate landscape.
    According to him, gone are the days when relentless pursuit of results overshadowed the well-being of leaders and their teams.
    “True success hinges on a balanced approach, where strong leadership fuels growth while prioritising the health and happiness of those driving it.
    “As directors, we are often at the forefront of innovation, strategy and governance.
    “Yet, amidst these responsibilities, it is easy to overlook the importance of our health and well-being.
    “This evening, we aim to explore how we can harmonise these aspects to lead more effectively and sustainably,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    ARM/IGO
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    Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

  • 2.18m patients received NDDC’s initial free medicare, says MD

    2.18m patients received NDDC’s initial free medicare, says MD

    Medicare
    By Desmond Ejibas
    Port Harcourt, June 6, 2024 (NAN) The Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said no fewer than 2.18 million people of the region benefitted from the commission’s initial free healthcare services.

    Ogbuku disclosed this in a statement issued by the commission’s Director, Corporate Affairs, Pius Ughakpoteni, and made available to newsme in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

    He stated that the beneficiaries received treatment for various illnesses and conditions and that many underwent free surgeries.

    Ughakpoteni quoted the NDDC boss to have said: “Since our initial intervention until the suspension of the free health mission in 2019, over 2.18 million Niger Delta people benefitted from the commission’s free healthcare services.

    “People who had little or no access to modern healthcare facilities were treated of all sorts of ailments.

    “The ailments ranged from minimal consultations for conditions like malaria, upper respiratory tract infections, fibroids, eye and dental surgeries to surgeries for children with minor cuts, amongst others,” he stated.

    According to the statement, the current medical outreach, which started on April 15, has already assisted no fewer than 18,000 patients, with 115 undergoing free eye surgeries to correct their vision.

    It added that this year’s exercise, carried out in collaboration with Ecclestine Concept Limited, focussed on individuals in rural and remote areas, who had challenges in accessing healthcare facilities.

    “The 115 patients underwent general and eye surgeries at Ogu General Hospital in Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers.

    “So far, 18,000 people have benefitted from the 2024 medical outreach in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Imo and Ondo States.

    “We have documented evidence and abounding testimonies attesting to its positive impact, enhancing the quality of life of the poor individuals in rural communities,” Ughakpoteni added.

    He further stated that the medical outreach was initiated due to concerns regarding the limited access to healthcare services for rural dwellers. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    DES/USO
    Edited by Sam Oditah