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  • Cholera: NCDC urges state govts to ensure access to safe water, basic sanitation

    Cholera: NCDC urges state govts to ensure access to safe water, basic sanitation

    Cholera

    By Abujah Racheal

    Abuja, June 19, 2024(NAN) The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged state governments to prioritise actions that ensure access to and use of safe water, basic sanitation, and proper hygiene practices in communities.

    The call is contained in a comprehensive advisory released to the public, healthcare workers, and state governments on mitigating the spread of cholera.

    The centre reported a total of 1,141 suspected cases of cholera, with 65 confirmed cases and 30 deaths across 96 local government areas in 30 states from Jan. 1 to June 11.

    The NCDC highlighted that 10 states—Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa and Lagos—account for 90 per cent of the cholera burden in the country.

    The centre explained that cholera is a food and water-borne disease caused by Vibrio cholerae, ingested through contaminated water and food.

    Water contamination usually results from the faeces of infected individuals, occurring during water collection, transportation, or storage at home. Food can also be contaminated by unclean hands during preparation or consumption.

    At-risk populations, the centre said, include those with limited access to clean water, poor sanitation and hygiene, consumers of potentially contaminated food or fruits without proper washing and cooking, and healthcare workers providing direct patient care without standard precautions.

    The centre noted that symptoms of cholera include acute, profuse, painless watery diarrhoea (rice water stools), sudden onset vomiting, and may be accompanied by nausea and fever.

    Severe cases can lead to death within hours due to dehydration from massive fluid loss.

    However, NCDC stressed that most infected individuals (about 80%) may show mild symptoms or be asymptomatic.

    NCDC cautioned that the best prevention against cholera includes ensuring access to safe drinking water, proper sanitation and waste disposal, and adopting appropriate hygiene practices, including regular handwashing.

    It advised avoiding raw fruits and vegetables, food from street vendors, and raw or undercooked seafood.

    “Protect cooked food and boiled water from contamination by flies and unsanitary handling.

    “Leftover food should be reheated thoroughly before consumption,” he said.

    The agency said that persons experiencing diarrhoea should avoid preparing or serving food or hauling water for others to prevent the spread of infection.

    “ Avoid open defecation and indiscriminate dumping of refuse. Proper disposal of waste and regular clearing of sewage are essential.

    “Anyone experiencing sudden watery diarrhoea should seek immediate medical attention and refrain from self-medication,” he said.

    It said that Nigerians should always practice standard safety precautions, such as wearing gloves when handling patients or providing care to ill individuals.

    The public health agency said that people should Intensify efforts to promptly report suspected cholera cases to facilitate timely intervention.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that according to the World Health Organisation(WHO), cholera is a food and water-borne disease, caused by the ingestion of the organism Vibrio Cholerae in contaminated water and food. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

    AIR/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • 41 Jordanian pilgrims to be buried in Saudi Arabia – Ministry

    41 Jordanian pilgrims to be buried in Saudi Arabia – Ministry
    Pilgrims
    Amman, June 19, 2024 (Xinhua/NAN) Jordan’s Foreign Ministry said 41 burial permits have been issued for Jordanian pilgrims to be buried in Mecca as they died from extreme heat during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
    The ministry said it has located 84 out of the total 106 Jordanian pilgrims registered missing in Saudi Arabia, according to Sufian Qudah, the ministry’s spokesperson.
    The Saudi authorities have been providing necessary medical care for the 84 pilgrims, some of whom were in critical condition, Qudah said.
    He added that the Jordanian diplomatic mission in Mecca continued to provide consular services to the pilgrims and monitor their situations in coordination with relevant Saudi authorities.
    The spokesperson added that search operations are ongoing for the remaining 22 missing Jordanian pilgrims.
    The official called on all Jordanians performing Hajj rituals to contact the ministry if assistance is needed, including reporting missing persons or transporting bodies in case of death. (Xinhua/NAN)(www.nannes.ng)
    UMD/AMM
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    Edited by Ummul Idris and Abiemwense Moru

  • China unveils new measures to deepen reform of STAR market

    China unveils new measures to deepen reform of STAR market

     

    Market

    By Vivian Emoni

    Beijing, June 19, 2024 (Xinhua/NAN) China’s top securities regulator on Wednesday rolled out new measures to deepen the reform of the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR) market to better serve sci-tech innovation.

     

    The new measures were also to promote the development of new quality productive forces, according to the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC).

     

    The measures include further supporting the listing of enterprises making breakthroughs in new industries, new business patterns, new technologies, and improving the pricing mechanisms for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).

     

    Efforts will also be made to improve the financing of listed companies on the STAR board, optimise the trading mechanisms, strengthen monitoring, forestall market risks, as well as encourage merger, acquisition and restructuring,” the CSRC said.

     

    “Since its launch in 2019, the STAR market has become the preferred listing destination for “hard-tech” companies, with its magnetic appeal continuing to grow.

     

    “As of May 31, 2024 a total of 572 companies have been listed on the STAR market with a combined market capitalisation of 5.17 trillion yuan (about 726.5 billion dollars).

     

    “The total amount raised through IPOs has reached 909.1 billion yuan,’’ CSRC said.(Xinhua/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    VOE/HA
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  • Tinubu mourns long-reigning Chief of Moroa 

    Tinubu mourns long-reigning Chief of Moroa

    Mourning

    By Salif Atojoko

    Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the Asholyio people in Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State, on the passing of Dr Tagwai Sambo, the Chief of Moroa.

    The President conveyed his condolences in a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, on Wednesday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the late traditional ruler was on the throne for 58 years and is regarded as one of the longest-reigning traditional rulers in northern Nigeria.

    He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Kaduna State University, serving as its pioneer Chancellor.

    “President Tinubu pays tribute to a lifetime of selfless service, dedicated to education, peacebuilding, and community development.

    The president prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for the family and those whose lives the Royal Father touched.

    NAN reports that Sambo’s demise was announced on Saturday in Manchok by the Palace Secretary, Mr Iliya Avong.

    The first-class traditional ruler was 88 and had spent 58 years on the throne.

    NAN reports that Sambo was born on Dec. 24, 1936, and ascended the throne at 30 in 1966.

    Until his appointment, he was the Commissioner for Works and Housing in the then North Regional Government. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    SA/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

     

  • Man, 26, docked for allegedly stealing N2.9m

     

    Stealing

    By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko

    Ibadan, June 19, 2024 (NAN) The Police on Wednesday, arraigned a 26-year-old man, Abiodun Ayodeji, in an Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court, Ibadan, for allegedly stealing the sum of N2,957,950 belonging to a lady.

    Ayodeji, whose address was not provided, was charged with conspiracy and stealing.

    He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    The Prosecutor, Insp Toyin Ibrahim, told the court that Ayodeji allegedly committed the offence sometimes in December, 2023, at Alabi shopping complex, Molete, Ibadan.

    He alleged that the defendant allegedly stole the sum of N2,957,950, belonging to one Mrs Seun Arowobusoye, without her consent.

    He said that the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390(9) of the Criminal Laws of Oyo, 2000.

    The Magistrate, Mrs Kausarat Ayofe, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500,000 with two reliable sureties in like sum.

    She adjourned the case until Aug. 6, for hearing. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    CC/DCO/IU

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    Edited by Deborah Coker / Isaac Ukpoju

     

  • Delta Speaker felicitates Gov. Oborevwori @ 61

    Delta Speaker felicitates Gov. Oborevwori @ 61

    Oborevwori

    By Mercy Neme

    Asaba, June 19, 2024 (NAN) The Speaker of the Delta House of Assembly, Mr  Dennis Guwor, has congratulated Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori as he marks 61 years birth anniversary.

    The Speaker in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nkem Nwaeke, on Wednesday in Asaba, said Oborevwori had been a beacon of hope, whose love for God and humanity brought him thus far.

    Guwor, who is also the National Treasurer, Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria, described Oborevwori as a remarkable leader.

    He prayed God to open a new chapter of wisdom, strength, and joy as the governor marks his birthday.

    Guwor said that the governor’s selfless service and dedication to the development of the state were truly inspiring, and expressed optimism of a greater progressive state.

    According to him, today marks yet another milestone in the life of a great and personable Boss, His Excellency, Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta.

    ”His Excellency’s life has been that of testimonies and thanksgiving. I pray for greater accomplishments in the years ahead.

    ”I also pray to God to grant him sound health, happiness, peace and love to experience many more birth anniversaries.

    ”On behalf of my family, constituents, friends, and political associates, I join millions of well wishers across the globe to wish him a glorious birth anniversary. ”

    (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    MOA/DCO/AMM

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    Edited by Deborah Coker and Abiemwense Moru

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Russian court sentences U.S. soldier to jail

    Russian court sentences U.S. soldier to jail
    Jail
    Moscow, June 19, 2024 (dpa/NAN) A U.S. soldier detained in Russia in early May has been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison by a court in Vladivostok for theft and death threats.
    According to local media reports on Wednesday, the court found that the man had stolen 10,000 rubles (120 U.S. dollars) from his girlfriend and threatened her.
    The defence had demanded an acquittal.
    The court’s sentence fell short of the four years and eight months in prison sought by the prosecution.
    The U.S. soldier had been detained in Pacific port city of Vladivostok.
    According to the U.S. Army, the soldier had completed his service in South Korea on April 10.
    Instead of returning to the mainland United States, he travelled to Vladivostok via China “for personal reasons.”
    The soldier had not sought official permission for his trip from the Department of Defense, the U.S. authorities said.
    He had joined the army in 2008 and had served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
    Local media reported that the man had wanted to visit a woman in Russia with whom he allegedly had a romantic relationship.
    During an argument, he reportedly grabbed his girlfriend by the throat, which she perceived as life-threatening.
    He also stole money from her, the report said.
    The detention of U.S. citizens in Russia often leads to complicated negotiations between Moscow and Washington over a release or exchange.
    According to the Kremlin, negotiations are ongoing regarding the detained Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich.
    His trial is set to begin on June 26 behind closed doors.
    Since late 2018, former U.S. soldier Paul Whelan has also been held in Russian custody after being convicted of espionage. (dpa/NAN) (www.nannes.ng)
    UMD/SH
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    Edited by Ummul Idris/Sadiya Hamza

  • UN says Israel violates use of precision bombs in Gaza war

    UN says Israel violates use of precision bombs in Gaza war
    Bombs
    Geneva, June 19, 2024 (dpa/NAN) Israel has not been paying sufficient attention to the protection of civilians when using precision-guided bombs during the Gaza war, the UN Human Rights Office said on Wednesday.
    “The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimise to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel’s bombing campaign.”
    Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in Geneva that his office has investigated six Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip between October 9 and December 2.
    It assumes that bombs of the types GBU-31, GBU-32 and GBU-39 were used, which can penetrate concrete and destroy several floors of a building.
    They were used to attack residential buildings, a school, a refugee camp and a market, the office said.
    At least 218 people had been killed.
    In an attack presumably with nine GBU-31 bombs on December 2, the destruction affected an area with a diameter of 130 metres, the UN agency said.
    It noted that it had destroyed 15 residential buildings and damaged 14 others.
    The section of international humanitarian law governing combat situations states that civilian facilities must be spared as much as possible during attacks.
    If the presence of combatants is suspected, attacking forces must weigh up whether the damage caused does not outweigh the desired gains.
    The presence of one or more terrorists or those involved in the massacres in Israel on October 7 in a building does not make an entire neighbourhood a legitimate target for an attack, the agency stated. (dpa/NAN) (www.nannes.ng)
    UMD/IS
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    Edited by Ummul Idris/Ismail Abdulaziz

  • Tailor docked for allegedly stealing friend’s sewing machine

    Tailor docked for allegedly stealing friend’s sewing machine

     

    Theft
    By Patience Yakubu
    Kaduna, June 19, 2024(NAN) A 27-year-old tailor, Samson Godwin, was on Wednesday docked in a Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing his friend’s sewing machine worth N146, 000.

    The defendant, who lives in Barnawa area of Kaduna, is charged with theft.

    He, however, pleaded not gulty to the charge.

    The Prosecution Counsel, Insp Chidi Leo, told the court that the defendant committed the offence in a shop located at Barnawa Market Kaduna belonging to his friend, Raymond Francis.

    Leo alleged that the defendant and two others now at large, broke into the shop of the complainant and stole a sewing machine worth N146, 000.

    He said that the complainant however saw the stolen sewing machine in his friend’s apartment when he paid him an unscheduled visit.

    Leo said the offence contravened the provisions of Penal Code of Kaduna State, 2017.

    Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel admitted the defendant to a bail of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

    He directed that the sureties should be gainfully employed and must also show evidence of two years’ tax payment to the Kaduna State Government.

    He adjourned the matter until July 22, for hearing. (NAN)

    PMY/CEO/SH

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    Edited by Chidi Opara/Sadiya Hamza

  • Group seeks  community-based approach to end GBV in Adamawa

    Group seeks  community-based approach to end GBV in Adamawa

    GBV

    By Talatu Maiwada

    Yola, June 19, 2024 ( NAN) The Anglican Compassion and Development Initiative(ACADI), an NGO, has called for community involvement and other stakeholders coordinated efforts to end the rising cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Adamawa.

    Rev. Ifeanyichukwu Mmaduakonam, GBV Desk Officer of the  Anglican Dioceses of Yola, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Yola.

    Mmaduakonam said the increasing cases of GBV in the country prompted the Church Of Nigeria (CON) through ACADI, to embark on a transformational response to GBV aimed at preventing and reducing it’s occurrence.

    He said that the role of churches for effective GBV response involves a shift from focusing only on private spiritual matters to public social issues.

    Mmaduakonam explained that GBV is a violation of fundamental human right which affects anyone, and cuts across class, race, ethnicity, religion, educational background among others.

    He stressed that unified efforts and community involvement, as well as government implementation of policies would reduce and eventually end GBV cases in the country.

    “In Nigeria, GBV manifests in various forms, including physical, sexual and psychological harm such as abuse, bullying, rape, genital cutting, early and forced marriage, deprivation of basic necessities of life.

    “ACADI has conducted several key projects on social intervention and capacity building since it’s establishment in 2021 on GBV across the country.

    “We use manuals, theological materials to create awearness, encourage conversations to teach leaders and community dwellers, on their rights and what constitutes GBV.

    “In Adamawa, we had community dialogue with religious and traditional leaders, trained over 150 people in some LGA’s on GBV, set up GBV clubs in schools for teachers and students,” he said.

    The clergy  said the programmes executed were community based, geared towards behavioural change with a view to end the practice in the society.

    He called on stakeholders, including government agencies, traditional and religious leaders, security operatives, citizens to unite efforts and eradicate the menace.

    Mmaduakonam further emphasised the need to ensure perpetrators of GBV are prosecuted to serve as deterrent to others, while stressing the role of media through public awearness on ending GBV. (NAN)(www.nanews.ng)

    TIM/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza