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Tinubu Declares Nigeria Has No Reason to Be Poor

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu Declares Nigeria Has No Reason to Be Poor

“Nigeria has no reason to be poor, not when God has blessed our land with abundant resources and talented people,” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared on Tuesday, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to turn the nation’s mineral wealth into engines of growth and shared prosperity.

Speaking at the 10th Nigeria Mining Week held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Tinubu represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume said the ongoing reforms in the solid minerals sector are already yielding significant results. According to him, the sector generated ₦38 billion in 2024, a sixfold jump from ₦6 billion in 2023, reflecting improved policy direction and accountability.

“Our challenge is to harness these God-given potentials to bring prosperity to all. Let us turn our minerals into miracles of development. Let ‘From Minerals to Miracles’ be our rallying cry,” Tinubu said.

The President announced a ₦1 trillion investment the largest in Nigeria’s mining history dedicated to geoscientific exploration, data generation, and mining infrastructure across mineral-rich regions. The fund, drawn from the ₦4.5 trillion increase in the 2025 national budget, underscores the administration’s determination to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil.

He also disclosed the creation of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Company, a special-purpose investment vehicle that will serve as the “engine room” for mobilizing capital, structuring joint ventures, and boosting local mineral processing and beneficiation.

“Vision alone is not enough it requires decisive action and investment. The Nigeria Solid Minerals Company will ensure that the wealth beneath our feet becomes prosperity in our hands,” the President said.

Tinubu warned that his administration would not repeat the mistakes of the past that led to environmental degradation and inequity in resource-rich regions.

“We will not allow the errors of the past to be repeated. The wealth from mining must heal and build, not hurt or divide,” he vowed. “We are enforcing strict environmental regulations and promoting transparency through the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).”

He assured investors of improved security across mining corridors, with targeted measures to protect host communities, workers, and investors. He also pledged that every mining community would benefit from local employment, fair compensation, and infrastructure development.

Envisioning a vibrant future for the sector, Tinubu said:
“Imagine a Nigeria where gold from Zamfara powers a jewelry industry in Abuja, tin from Plateau drives electronics in Lagos, and limestone from Ogun builds our cities. This is not a distant dream it is within reach.”

The President commended the Miners Association of Nigeria, PwC Nigeria, and VUKA Group for sustaining the Mining Week as a premier platform for policy dialogue and investment, calling it “a continental beacon of transformation.”

Earlier, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, reaffirmed that the sector’s contribution to the GDP has risen sharply now accounting for 4.6 percent without any additional budgetary allocation, which he described as proof of effective reform implementation.

“From all available evidence, the results of our policy initiatives and reforms are yielding,” Alake said. “But we could not have done this aloneit is because of the unfettered cooperation and appreciation of stakeholders that we’ve achieved this much.”

Alake noted that Nigeria’s mining reforms are now attracting continental recognition, with several African nations adopting the country’s model through the newly formed African Mineral Plantation Group, where Nigeria plays a leading role.

He also disclosed that the government is closing key financing gaps in the sector, including foreign investment shortfalls, through innovative models under the African Joint Committee (AJC) framework to empower local investors.

The 10th Nigeria Mining Week, themed “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance,” brought together policymakers, investors, and development partners to chart the future of Nigeria’s mining industry cementing the nation’s rise as Africa’s next hub for responsible, value-added mineral development.

Mahmoud Rallies Stakeholders to Tackle Rising Cancer Burden, Calls for Equity and Access in Care

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Mahmoud Rallies Stakeholders to Tackle Rising Cancer Burden, Calls for Equity and Access in Care

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has urged stronger collaboration among stakeholders to curb the rising burden of cancer in Nigeria, describing it as one of the nation’s most urgent public health challenges.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 International Cancer Week held on Tuesday at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre, Abuja, Mahmoud said this year’s theme “Redefining the Future of Cancer Prevention, Access, and Equity for All” underscores the need to guarantee timely and affordable access to cancer prevention and treatment services for every Nigerian.

In a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media, Austine Elemue, the Minister reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance healthcare delivery, strengthen partnerships, and build a future free of cancer.

“The fight against cancer extends beyond medical interventions; it requires empathy, education, innovation, and sustained investment in research,” Mahmoud stated.

She emphasized that the FCTA remains steadfast in building a resilient healthcare system that prioritizes disease prevention, early detection, and quality care for residents.

Mahmoud also noted ongoing investments in awareness campaigns, screening programmes, and public-private partnerships aimed at reducing the disease’s impact.

The Minister commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), the Nigeria Cancer Society, and development partners for their unwavering dedication to the cause.

“Only through collective action can we change the fate of families and communities affected by cancer,” Mahmoud added.

Wike Dismisses Political Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to Tinubu — Says FCT’s Transformation Will Silence Critics

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Wike Dismisses Political Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to Tinubu — Says FCT’s Transformation Will Silence Critics

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has dismissed insinuations that his absence from the recent Council of State meeting was politically motivated, affirming his unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration’s vision for Nigeria.

Speaking during the inspection of completed road projects in Daki Biyu District on October 14, 2025, Wike said his absence was purely due to prior official engagements and that the FCT Minister of State was duly assigned to represent him.

“I had already told Mr. President that I would not be available because of other official engagements. So, the Honourable Minister of State represented the FCT in that meeting,” Wike clarified.

The Minister described reports suggesting political grievances as “propaganda and blackmail,” saying such distractions will not derail the administration’s focus on development.

“Those spreading propaganda and blackmail only want to distract us, but we remain focused. When you start delivering, the achievements will silence all critics,” he added.

Wike emphasized that under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Abuja has witnessed unprecedented infrastructure renewal, with several key roads now completed and serving major institutions such as the Police Service Commission and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

“I thank God today that by the support of His Excellency, Mr. President, all the roads here have been completed,” he said, commending Tinubu for providing what he described as “the right leadership.”

He also praised his team, including the FCT Minister of State and officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), for their cooperation and dedication.

Wike assured residents that more projects including schools and public facilities would soon be delivered, promising that next year’s anniversary celebration would showcase unprecedented development in the FCT.

“Through Mr. President, it will be a different narrative. You can see it coming,” he said confidently.

Tinubu Unveils ₦1 Trillion Mining Investment, Pledges Economic Diversification , Responsible Resource Management

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Tinubu Unveils ₦1 Trillion Mining Investment, Pledges Economic Diversification , Responsible Resource Management

…Sector Revenue Jumps from ₦6bn to ₦38bn as Reforms Boost Confidence

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a ₦1 trillion investment in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector the single largest funding commitment in the nation’s mining history as part of his administration’s drive to diversify the economy and unlock the nation’s vast mineral potential.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, the President made the announcement while delivering the keynote address at the 10th Edition of the Nigeria Mining Week 2025, held at the Continental Hotel, Abuja.

Tinubu said the historic investment, drawn from a ₦4.5 trillion increase in the 2025 national budget, would fund geo-scientific exploration, geological surveys, and critical infrastructure across mineral-rich regions.

“This is the most significant single investment in Nigeria’s mining industry by any administration,” he declared. “We are turning the wealth beneath our feet into prosperity in our hands.”

He added that the initiative aligns with his Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to reduce over-reliance on oil and create millions of jobs through local value addition.

The President revealed that the sector’s revenue had risen sixfold, from ₦6 billion in 2023 to ₦38 billion in 2024, owing to bold reforms, tighter regulations, and the creation of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Company, a special-purpose investment vehicle driving capital mobilisation and joint ventures.

He also assured Nigerians of zero tolerance for unsafe or environmentally harmful mining, insisting that “natural resources must enhance lives today and for future generations. Mining should heal and build, not hurt or divide.”

Chairman, Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Senator Ekong Sampson, pledged the National Assembly’s full support for the President’s reforms, emphasizing collaboration among government, industry players, and communities. “What we need for every sector is collaboration, not conflict,” he said, assuring that the legislature would strengthen policies to ensure investor confidence and transparency.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, disclosed that the sector’s share of GDP had climbed to 4.6 percent, describing it as “clear evidence that our policies are working.”

He stressed that governance must be a shared responsibility among government, civil service, and citizens. Alake also revealed that Nigeria’s mining model is now being replicated across Africa, with several countries adopting frameworks developed under President Tinubu’s leadership.

Similarly, Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, reaffirmed the government’s determination to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Plant, disclosing that a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Chinese firm targets the production of 10 million metric tonnes of steel by 2030. “With the right partnerships, Nigeria’s steel industry will soon take its rightful place as the bedrock of national development,” he said.

Engr. Faruk Yabo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, said the ministry is building a technology-driven, transparent, and investor-friendly environment to ensure that Nigeria no longer exports raw minerals but value-added products that create jobs and strengthen prosperity.

On his part, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Executive Secretary of NEITI, emphasized transparency as key to sustaining investor confidence. “Transparency is not an option; it is the foundation upon which trust and investment confidence are built,” he said.

National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr. ‘Dele Ayanleke, lauded the sector’s transformation over the past decade, describing it as a global success story driven by collaboration and reform. He reaffirmed MAN’s commitment to sustainability and transparency, calling for unity to achieve President Tinubu’s $1 trillion economy vision by 2030.

Closing the event, Mr. Samukelo Madlabane, Event Director of Nigeria Mining Week, hailed the 10th anniversary edition as “a historic milestone reflecting a decade of commitment, collaboration, and progress,” urging participants to forge partnerships that will shape the next decade of mining growth in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Mining Sector Now Contributes 4.6% to GDP — Alake

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Nigeria’s Mining Sector Now Contributes 4.6% to GDP — Alake

***Hails Tinubu’s Reforms, Says Nigeria Taking Lead in Africa’s Mineral Value Chain

Nigeria’s solid minerals sector has recorded remarkable growth, now contributing 4.6 percent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.

The Minister attributed this milestone to the far-reaching reforms and policy initiatives introduced under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a major step toward economic diversification and sustainable national development.

Speaking at the 10th Nigeria Mining Week held on October 14, 2025, in Abuja, Alake said the success reflects the impact of collective efforts by all stakeholders in the industry.

“From all available evidence, the results of our policy initiatives and reforms are yielding. But we could not have achieved this alone; it is the product of your cooperation and appreciation of the necessity for the policies we are implementing,” he stated.

The Minister emphasized that the sustainability of mining reforms depends on the shared responsibility of both government and citizens. “Government is not a law force; it is you, me, and everyone,” Alake said.

“Every policy adopted by government must be implemented collectively to ensure maximum benefit for the people. Otherwise, we will continue to deceive ourselves.”

Dr. Alake also disclosed that Nigeria’s mining reforms are now being adopted by other African countries under the African Mineral Plantation Group, positioning Nigeria as a continental leader in the emerging global mineral value chain.

“Nigeria is already taking the lead in this partnership, setting the pace for responsible and inclusive mining across Africa,” he added.

CAN Mourns Evangelist Uma Ukpai, Describes Him as a Pillar of Faith and Hope

Toyin Adebayo
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0
CAN Mourns Evangelist Uma Ukpai, Describes Him as a Pillar of Faith and Hope

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has mourned the passing of Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai, describing him as a legendary evangelist, teacher, and servant of God whose life and ministry left an indelible impact on the growth of Christianity in Nigeria and beyond.

In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and issued on Monday, October 13, 2025, CAN said Reverend Dr. Ukpai, who went to be with the Lord on October 6 at the age of 80, devoted over six decades of his life to preaching the gospel, healing the sick, and nurturing faith through his global evangelistic ministry.

“Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai was a towering figure in the Church in Nigeria whose ministry touched millions through crusades, teachings, and acts of charity,” Archbishop Okoh stated. “He lived a life of unshakable faith and passion for soul-winning, advancing the cause of Christ across denominations and regions.”

CAN noted that his legacy of faith, compassion, and service continues to resonate within the Christian community and the nation at large. “Generations of believers have been inspired by his message of faith, healing, and hope in Christ Jesus,” the statement read.

On behalf of the Christian community nationwide, CAN extended heartfelt condolences to his wife, Reverend Dr. (Mrs.) Philomena Uma Ukpai, the entire Ukpai family, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and all who were blessed by his ministry.

“May the Almighty God comfort the family and grant them the strength to bear this great loss,” Archbishop Okoh prayed. “The legacy of his faith and service will continue to inspire the Church and the nation.”

The statement concluded with a final tribute: “Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai served God faithfully, finished strong, and has gone to receive his eternal crown of glory. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

Tinubu Approves Home Ownership for Judges — Wike

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Tinubu Approves Home Ownership for Judges — Wike

***Says No FCT High Court Judge Will Live in Rented Quarters Before 2027

Judicial officers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will now own their official residences upon retirement, following the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, made this known on Monday the 13th of October 2025 during the flag-off of design and construction of Residences for Heads of Courts (President Court of Appeal, Federal High Court , Chief Judge of the FCT Abuja and President Industrial Court), describing the move as one of the boldest judicial welfare reforms under the current administration.

Wike explained that the initiative was in line with President Tinubu’s directive to enhance the welfare and performance of judicial officers nationwide.

“What we are doing today is not just for the heads of courts while they are in service. As they retire, the property becomes their own. This is the approval of Mr. President, and that is why we issued the Certificates of Occupancy in their names,” Wike said.

He emphasized that no FCT judge would retire without a home or be forced to live in rented accommodation, assuring that “before the first tenure of Mr. President ends, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented quarter.”

According to the Minister, the welfare initiative for judges is captured in the 2024 and 2025 FCT budgets, both approved by the National Assembly and assented to by the President.

He praised President Tinubu for their unwavering support, noting that the President has “changed the narrative” in judicial welfare and infrastructure. Wike announced that the FCT Administration is building 10 duplexes for the Court of Appeal, 10 for the Federal High Court, and 20 for the FCT High Court all scheduled for completion within 12 months.

He warned that there would be no contract variation or delay, saying, “We don’t have a history of starting projects and abandoning them. The agreement says 12 months no excuses.”

The Minister also revealed plans to digitalize the FCT High Court under the 2025 budget, as part of broader judicial reforms. “Our judges deserve the best, and I thank God that Mr. President has made it a policy to ensure that during his tenure, the welfare of judicial officers takes a new turn,” he stated.

In his goodwill message, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, lauded President Tinubu and Wike for their commitment to judicial reform, describing the initiative as a landmark step toward strengthening access to justice and Nigeria’s democracy.

He noted that constructing modern residences for judges reflects the President’s vision for a robust justice system, adding, “When Wike says a project will be completed in 12 months, I believe him because he has never failed.”

Fagbemi also recalled the President’s recent approval of a 300.2 percent salary increase for judicial officers the first in over two decades as further evidence of the administration’s dedication to judicial welfare. He urged state governments to emulate the FCT’s example, saying, “When courts are well equipped, justice is faster, trust is deeper, and democracy becomes stronger.”

Speaking earlier, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a symbol of collective commitment to strengthening the pillars of justice and governance. “This project is about honour, dignity, and institutional pride providing befitting residences for our esteemed Heads of Courts whose integrity upholds the rule of law in Nigeria,” she said.

Dr. Mahmoud commended President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and applauded Wike for his “dynamic drive and practical commitment” to transforming Abuja’s infrastructure landscape.

We Won’t Bow to Blackmail — Alake Vows

Toyin Adebayo
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0
We Won’t Bow to Blackmail — Alake Vows

***Says GDP Contribution Hits 4.61%, Unveils Plans for Minerals Pre-Shipment Agency, Satellite Surveillance

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has declared that no amount of threats, blackmail, or smear campaigns will derail the Federal Government’s ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s mining sector.

Speaking ahead of the 10th Nigeria Mining Week scheduled to begin on Monday, Alake said the reforms are already yielding measurable results, citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) that show the mining sector’s contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose from less than 0.5% a decade ago to 1.8%, with a record 4.61% in the second quarter of 2025.

“These figures mean more mines in operation, more companies investing, and more communities benefiting from mining activities,” Alake said.

In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the minister reaffirmed his determination to enforce due process and transparency in the sector despite facing resistance.

“The mining sector was once an all-comers affair where operators flagrantly abused regulations. Since we began reforms, some affected parties have resorted to threats and blackmail to derail our progress. But our resolve is unflinching we will enforce all regulations, no matter whose ox is gored,” he stated.

Alake emphasized that the revocation of dormant or non-compliant mining licenses will continue as part of the Federal Government’s clean-up strategy to attract serious investors.

“The era when people held licenses for over 10 years without any form of operation is gone. The ‘Use it or Lose it’ policy will be strictly implemented,” he said.

The minister disclosed that he had increased his personal security following threats from some aggrieved operators but insisted he remained undeterred.

“Our confidence is anchored on the principle that this fight is for the sake of our country. We will not back down,” he affirmed.

Highlighting new initiatives to strengthen regulation, Alake announced plans to establish a Minerals Pre-Shipment Agency to ensure proper monitoring and accountability in mineral exports.

He also revealed that the government is installing satellite surveillance systems across mining sites and plans to double the personnel of the Mining Marshals a mobile enforcement unit that will be deployed to every local government to combat illegal mining.

“Our reforms are designed to make the sector safer, more transparent, and more profitable for genuine investors,” he said.

Dr. Alake urged all stakeholders and investors to actively participate in the upcoming Nigeria Mining Week, describing it as a platform to consolidate progress and attract responsible investments.

“This event provides an opportunity to deepen reforms, promote innovation, and ensure the mining sector contributes substantially to Nigeria’s industrialization,” he said.

The President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dele Ayanleke, applauded the minister’s leadership, urging the government to sustain policy implementation and calling on investors to leverage the country’s vast mineral potential.

The 10th Nigeria Mining Week, themed “Nigerian Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance,” is organized by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in partnership with the Miners Association of Nigeria, Vuka Group, and PwC. It will hold from October 13–15, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

NAFDAC, Natural Medicine Agency Partner to Fast-Track Clinical Trials, Ease Herbal Drug Registration

Toyin Adebayo
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0
NAFDAC, Natural Medicine Agency Partner to Fast-Track Clinical Trials, Ease Herbal Drug Registration

***Says Herbal Medicine Works, But It Must Be Proven Scientifically

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has entered into a landmark partnership with the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) to fast-track clinical trials and simplify the approval process for herbal medicines in Nigeria.

Announcing the collaboration in a statement signed by NAFDAC’s Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, the Director-General of the Agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, said the initiative aims to produce scientifically proven, safe, and effective herbal medicines that meet international standards.

According to her, Nigerian herbal medicine practitioners have the expertise and indigenous knowledge to formulate effective remedies but are often constrained by the high cost of conducting clinical trials a critical requirement for full registration.

“If you have a herbal medicine that you cannot prove scientifically the extent to which it works and the level at which it is safe then it cannot be fully registered by NAFDAC,” Prof. Adeyeye stated.

“We know herbal medicine works. What remains is to prove, through clinical trials, the level it can be used safely without causing harm to vital organs such as the liver and kidney.”

Prof. Adeyeye explained that NAFDAC operates a two-step approval process for herbal medicines. The first is a listing approval granted after laboratory safety evaluation and valid for two years identified by a NAFDAC number ending with the letter “L.”
The second is full approval, valid for five years, which can only be issued after successful clinical trials have proven the product’s efficacy.

“Thousands of herbal medicines have been listed by NAFDAC, but only a few have gone through clinical trials. We cannot grant five-year approval without efficacy data,” she said.

Prof. Adeyeye revealed that NAFDAC is intensifying collaboration with NNMDA to ensure selected listed herbal medicines undergo scientific validation through clinical trials.

“We are working with the NNMDA to use selected listed herbal medicines for clinical trials so that we can prove beyond doubt that the medicines work well. Such products can then be fully registered and included in a national formulary for herbal medicines,” she noted.

She added that NAFDAC has been holding stakeholder meetings with herbal practitioners and has published a simplified factory layout guide on its website to help them meet Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.

“It doesn’t have to be a big place,” she clarified, “but it must be well-organized to prevent contamination.”

The NAFDAC boss recalled that before the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency inaugurated the Herbal Medicine Products Committee a collaboration among NAFDAC, the Ministry of Health, researchers, and traditional practitioners aimed at integrating scientific research with indigenous medicinal knowledge.

She stressed that NAFDAC is currently seeking funding to support herbal practitioners in conducting clinical trials, describing the process as highly capital-intensive.

“We are approving herbal medicines daily in NAFDAC, but our goal is to build a national formulary for those that have undergone clinical trials and proven to be very effective,” she said.

Recounting her academic background, Prof. Adeyeye revealed that before her appointment at NAFDAC, she led a research project in the United States that developed an anti-sickling polyherbal medicine for sickle cell disease. The formulation, previously listed by NAFDAC, showed both anti-sickling and anti-infective properties in clinical studies conducted under ethical approval in Nigeria and the U.S.

“The trial confirmed the product’s efficacy but required more data and funding for completion. We are now determined to assist our local practitioners with clinical trials, and together with NNMDA, we will mobilize resources to ensure more herbal medicines are fully registered after due process,” she affirmed.

The partnership, according to experts, represents a critical milestone in the integration of traditional and modern medicine in Nigeria. It underscores NAFDAC’s resolve to ensure that herbal products are not only effective but also scientifically validated and safe for public use enhancing their credibility both at home and abroad.

Aina, Fasawe Lead Nationwide Drive to Boost Measles–Rubella Immunization, Vow ‘No Child Will Be Left Behind’

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Aina, Fasawe Lead Nationwide Drive to Boost Measles–Rubella Immunization, Vow ‘No Child Will Be Left Behind’

In a renewed push to safeguard children against deadly but preventable diseases, the Director-General of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, and the Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, on Friday led a high-level monitoring exercise of the ongoing Measles–Rubella (MRM) Vaccination Campaign across selected states in Nigeria.

The joint monitoring visit, which covered Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) in Kogi State and the Federal Capital Territory, underscores the strong collaboration between national and state health authorities to ensure no child is left unvaccinated.

At the Chikora North PHC in Kogi Local Government Area and New Township PHC in Abaji Area Council, Abuja, the delegation engaged mothers and caregivers, sensitizing them on the importance of timely immunization and ensuring their children’s fingers were properly marked as proof of vaccination.

Dr. Aina commended the dedication of frontline health workers and emphasized the importance of accurate data reporting for effective national planning.

“Honest and verifiable data whether we meet our targets or not is the only way we can plan better and strengthen our health systems sustainably,” he said.

He added that the Federal Government remains committed to addressing challenges faced by health workers through the Renewed Hope Health Reform Agenda, aimed at delivering equitable and efficient healthcare services nationwide.

Dr. Fasawe, who personally administered vaccines to infants at the Abaji PHC, reminded mothers that immunization saves lives and protects children from lifelong complications.

“Unvaccinated children face a higher risk of blindness, brain damage, hearing loss, congenital defects, and even death from measles or rubella,” she warned, urging parents to spread the message within their communities.

The health leaders praised the turnout and performance of vaccination teams, urging them to sustain their dedication and adhere strictly to safety standards. During the visit, the delegation also attended to a 13-year-old patient at the Kogi PHC and recommended follow-up care to ensure quality service delivery.

The Measles–Rubella Vaccination Campaign, which was officially flagged off by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on October 6, will run until October 15 across 19 northern states and Oyo State. The initiative reinforces the shared commitment of federal and state agencies to strengthen immunization systems, reduce preventable diseases, and build a healthier nation for Nigeria’s children.

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