“Reduce, reuse, recycle” is not just a slogan, it’s a way of life and one of the propelling forces behind Chinyelugo heeding the call of his people to join the Senatorial bye-election race.
The horrific visions of the number of waste littering carelessly on the streets translating to the number of wealth lying in ruins and the number of lives at risk of health hazards pushed him to getting ready impactful bills for waste management and disposable.
Expectedly, these well thought out bills will regulate the disposal and management of wastes such as organic waste, hazardous waste, solid waste, liquid waste, and recyclable waste. Each of them uniquely impacts the environment, with improper disposal leading to issues like pollution, health risks, and resource depletion.
Predictably, the intended bills will not only scale down the generation of waste especially hazardous waste, treat waste in a way that ensures recovery, dispose of waste that cannot be recovered in an environmentally sound way, prevent pollution, minimize the consequences for human health and the environment; it will ultimately create massive employment and unimaginable wealth for the highly industrious people of Anambra South and Anambra State.
With the notion that waste is a resource in the wrong place, let’s support Chinyelugo for effective and beneficial bills for its management and disposal!
Let’s support Sir Azuka Okwuosa for quality Representation in the Senate.
The increasing resistance of bacteria to third-generation cephalosporins and other critical antibiotics is complicating treatment options in Nigeria, raising concerns among health experts. Dr. Sati Ngulukun, Director of Bacteriology, Parasitology, and Urology at the National Veterinary Research Institute, Plateau State, has warned that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a severe threat to public health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as neonates and intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
Speaking during his presentation titled “Private Sector Engagement in Antimicrobial Resistance: Challenges and Opportunities” at a five-day training and capacity-building program for journalists and SBOS on AMR Advocacy and Media Reporting, Dr. Ngulukun highlighted that recent studies show a significant rise in multidrug-resistant infections in Nigeria. The event was organized by Fleming Fund Country Grant Antimicrobial Resistance Phase II in collaboration with Management Science for Health (MSH) and supported by UKaid.
A 2025 study by Okechukwu et al. reported that 50% of Escherichia coli and 86% of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from neonatal infections exhibited resistance to multiple antibiotics. Similarly, research by Olayinka et al. (2022) highlighted the increasing failure of third-generation cephalosporins, a key class of antibiotics used to treat severe bacterial infections.
Economic Impact and Policy Recommendations
Dr. Ngulukun stressed that the economic impact of AMR is equally alarming, with global losses estimated at $100 trillion if no action is taken. In Nigeria, AMR could reduce GDP by 5-7% and diminish livestock production by 11% by 2050. “The private sector, which provides over 60% of healthcare services in Nigeria, is a critical player in this fight and must be fully integrated into national AMR control strategies,” he emphasized.
Nigeria’s National Action Plan for AMR (2017–2022), developed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), aims to:
Improve AMR awareness and education.
Strengthen surveillance and reporting systems.
Promote rational antimicrobial use in human and animal health.
Encourage private-sector engagement in AMR control.
Despite these efforts, Dr. Ngulukun stressed the need for stronger policies and stricter enforcement to curb the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.
Factors Fueling AMR in Nigeria
Dr. Ngulukun identified several factors contributing to AMR in Nigeria:
Widespread antibiotic misuse: Self-medication and over-the-counter sales of antibiotics without prescriptions contribute significantly to resistance.
Healthcare facilities as AMR hotspots: Multidrug-resistant infections are prevalent in hospitals, particularly among ICU patients and neonates.
Agricultural antibiotic use: Excessive antibiotic use in livestock and poultry farming promotes resistance within the food chain.
Environmental contamination: Poor waste management and contaminated water sources facilitate the spread of resistant bacteria.
Call for Multi-Sectoral Approach
With Nigeria ranking among the worst-hit countries by AMR, experts are calling for immediate and sustained action. Dr. Ngulukun emphasized the need for:
Strengthened surveillance and reporting systems.
Public education campaigns on responsible antibiotic use.
Stricter regulations on antibiotic sales and prescriptions.
Increased research into AMR trends and mitigation strategies.
Greater collaboration between the government, private healthcare providers, and agricultural stakeholders.
As resistance to life-saving antibiotics continues to rise, Dr. Ngulukun concluded that a multi-sectoral approach involving healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management is essential to curb the spread of AMR and safeguard public health in Nigeria.
Ambassador Fubara Blessing, the Managing Director and CEO of D’Consiglories LLC, has announced his commitment to organizing and hosting the Niger Delta Music and Arts Project (MAP) as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). This initiative was initially intended to be one of the eight specimens of PROJECT HOPE by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). However, due to delays attributed to possible internal bottlenecks or other undisclosed reasons within the Commission, stakeholders from across the region have raised concerns about the project’s stagnation.
In response, Ambassador Fubara, who serves as the lead consultant for PROJECT HOPE, has assured the public that MAP will proceed as planned, fully funded by D’Consiglories LLC. Addressing the press in Port Harcourt today February 18th 2025, he stated that he has secured partnerships with leading entertainment industry giants to ensure the success of the project.
“We have a duty to uphold integrity and transparency in our engagements with the people of the Niger Delta. The Niger Delta is rich in talent and potential. The delays in implementing MAP should not deter us from empowering our people. As stakeholders in this region, we have a responsibility to take proactive steps in supporting our youth and providing sustainable opportunities for growth,” said Ambassador Fubara.
The MAP auditions are scheduled to commence on February 28, 2025, across the nine Niger Delta states. This groundbreaking initiative aims to discover and promote talent in music and the arts, providing a platform for young creatives to showcase their skills and gain exposure to national and international audiences.
Beyond MAP, Ambassador Fubara has also pledged to tackle unemployment in the Niger Delta region by leveraging the database system developed for PROJECT HOPE. Through this system, D’Consiglories LLC will facilitate the employment of 18 qualified yet unemployed Niger Deltans every month, offering them opportunities across various industries.
“We are neither halting nor superseding our principal the NDDC; rather, we are fulfilling our commitment and reinforcing our corporate integrity to our stakeholders, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations”. This initiative commences pending when the Commission would decide to kick-start the programs as promised and unveiled on September 30, 2024.” He also added.
The MAP initiative is expected to be a major milestone in the creative and entertainment industry, further positioning the Niger Delta as a hub for artistic excellence. More details on the audition process and event schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.
***If Unchecked, Could Led To 10 Million Deaths Annually By 2050
*** AMR Responsible For 263,400 Deaths Annually in Nigeria
*** With 64,500 Of These Fatalities Directly Caused By Resistant Infections
Nigeria is on the brink of a public health catastrophe as Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) continues to escalate, placing the nation among the worst-hit globally.
Dr. Mary Alex-Wele, Consultant Clinical Microbiologist, Senior Lecturer, and Certified Infection Preventionist, has raised concerns over the country’s AMR-related mortality rate, ranking 19th out of 204 nations surveyed at a 5 Day Training and Capacity Building for journalists and SBOS on AMR Advocacy And Media Reporting organized by Fleming Fund Country Grant Antimicrobial Resistance Phase 11 in collaboration with Management Science for Health (MSH) with support from UKaid on Monday in Lagos state.
Globally, 4.95 million deaths are linked to AMR each year, with 1.27 million directly attributed to drug-resistant infections. “If this trend continues unchecked, we could see up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050,” Dr. Alex-Wele cautioned.
In Nigeria, AMR is responsible for 263,400 deaths annually, with 64,500 of these fatalities directly caused by resistant infections. Beyond the staggering human toll, AMR is expected to trigger economic losses amounting to $100 trillion globally, with a projected 3.8% GDP decline and severe disruptions in livestock production.
Dr. Alex-Wele emphasized the urgent need for stronger policies, increased research funding, and widespread public awareness campaigns. “Without immediate and sustained intervention, we are heading toward a post-antibiotic era where common infections become untreatable, reversing decades of medical progress,” she warned.
She highlighted the necessity of a coordinated response, advocating for the “One Health” approach a framework integrating human health, food production, environmental sustainability, and animal health.
“AMR is not a future threat; it is a present danger. Governments, industries, and communities must work together to safeguard our future,” stated Dr. Chavan Laxmikant, Technical Officer at WHO Nigeria.
The Interagency Coordination Group on AMR outlined key recommendations, including accelerating national response strategies, fostering innovation, enhancing collaboration, and strengthening global accountability. These measures are expected to mitigate the crisis and protect public health.
Recent health data positions AMR among the leading causes of death in Nigeria, surpassing fatalities from respiratory infections, enteric infections, maternal and neonatal disorders, and neglected tropical diseases. While diseases like tuberculosis and malaria remain major concerns, AMR’s silent rise has alarmed healthcare professionals.
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve resistance to antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs, rendering standard treatments ineffective. This results in prolonged illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality rates. The WHO has repeatedly warned that without urgent intervention, AMR could become the world’s leading cause of death.
The unchecked rise of AMR poses several threats: Increased morbidity and mortality; Longer hospital stays: Overburdening an already strained healthcare system; Costlier treatments: The need for more expensive antibiotics and procedures; Higher risk of resistant hospital-acquired infections; Complications in surgeries and routine medical treatments; and Financial losses in agriculture due to drug-resistant livestock diseases
In response to this crisis, Nigeria has developed two National Action Plans (NAPs) in the past eight years, aligned with the Global Action Plan on AMR. The latest, NAP 2.0, launched on October 18, 2024, will guide the country’s AMR mitigation efforts until 2028.
This plan, rooted in a multisectoral situation analysis, aims to: Strengthen surveillance and data collection; Promote responsible antibiotic use; Enhance infection prevention and control measures; Invest in research and development for alternative treatments; and Improve public education on AMR risks
As AMR continues to claim lives, immediate and sustained efforts are crucial to preventing a full-scale health crisis. The battle against AMR is not just for healthcare professionals but for every Nigerian, as inaction could have catastrophic
The Honorable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, has categorically refuted the recent comments by Dr. Babachir Lawal regarding the 2027 Presidential ambitions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Matawalle emphasized that President Tinubu has made commendable strides in governance and that Lawal and his associates will be surprised by the resounding support the President will receive from the North.
In his statement, Minister Matawalle noted, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions to all regions of Nigeria, including the North. The people of the North will rally behind Mr. President to build upon the achievements and reforms he has initiated.”
The Minister highlighted several key areas where President Tinubu has made impactful reforms that warrant support from the Northern electorate particularly
Security and Defence:
In 2024, Nigerian security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 weapons. This robust action has significantly improved security across the North. The successful rescue of approximately 8,000 kidnap victims underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens. Also, the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in December 2024, in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has enhanced strategic coordination in the fight against kidnapping.
Dr. Matawalle emphasized ‘The North remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu. Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine our national security.
Looking at the administration from the economic point of view, the Minister said Economic Initiatives like
the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to tap into the agricultural potential of the North, promoting economic growth and empowering millions, particularly women and youths in the North. “This initiative is expected to transform rural communities and contribute to food Security. The recent decline in grain prices across the country is a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies“ he explained.
Furthermore, President Tinubu’s administration has prioritized infrastructure projects that are vital for economic growth in the North, including road construction and improvement of transportation networks.
Also of importance is the Local Government Autonomy:
The local government autonomy signed into law by President Tinubu empowers local administrations to function effectively, ensuring accountability and better governance at the grassroots level.
Matawalle urged critics like Lawal to evaluate President Tinubu’s scorecard objectively rather than dismissing his efforts. “It is essential for us in the North to assess the tangible benefits of the President’s reforms. The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made,” he stated.
He concluded by affirming that the legacy of President Tinubu’s reforms is one of hope and progress for all Nigerians—young and old, male and female, in every corner of the country. “We must unite in our support for Mr. President as he continues to work towards a prosperous and secure Nigeria,” he emphasized.
Dr. Matawalle also reaffirmed the Northern region’s commitment to the Tinubu administration. ” Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria “.
The sum of the personal values, accomplishments, and actions of Distinguished Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah which resonate in the minds of the people especially the good people of Anambra South will be wiped out within the shortest time if our judgement of who becomes the next Anambra South Senator is made on the altar of superficial sentiments.
Ebubechukwuuzo Nnewi’s laudable legacies of loving the people around him with his time, resources and attention; being the uncommon voice of ndị Anambra South in the Senate will phase out if we allow superficialities to becloud our sense of judgement.
Anambra South Senatorial District will retrogress far beyond expectations if we fail in doing what is just in the forthcoming Senatorial bye-election.
Sir Azuka Okwuosa who has proven his mettle beyond every reasonable doubts precedently, distinctly stands out amongst the contenders.
Let’s support a leader worthy of our trust to deliver.
Let’s support Chinyelugo for quality Representation in the Senate.
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle , has issued a resolute call for Nigeria to assert its position on the global stage in the light of recent diplomatic incident involving the denial of visas to the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and other members of the Nigerian delegation. This unfortunate event occurred while they were en route to a significant function honoring Nigerian veterans in Canada.
Matawalle expressed profound disappointment regarding the treatment of the Nigerian delegation, emphasizing that such actions jeopardize the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Canada. “This incident is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a serious affront to our national dignity and integrity. We cannot allow our country to be treated with such disregard and levity on the international stage,” he stated.
He called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind this visa denial, asserting that Nigeria must respond decisively to uphold its reputation as a key player in global affairs. “We must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect. It is imperative that the Nigerian government takes a firm diplomatic stance. If no satisfactory explanation is provided, we must be prepared to respond appropriately and assertively,” Minister Matawalle declared.
The denial of visa raises significant concerns regarding Canada’s treatment of Nigerian military officials and the overall state of diplomatic relations between the two nations. While the specific reasons for the visa refusals remain unclear, this incident underscores the persistent bureaucratic and political challenges that Nigerian officials encounter in international engagements.
He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining its dignity and respect in the international arena, urging all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
The former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, and the embattled National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, on Wednesday, shunned the Tom Ikimi-led disciplinary committee of the party.
While the committee waited for over three hours for their appearance, it later rescheduled the hearing to March 4, 2025, citing the need for fair hearing.
Disciplinary Committee: We Sent Invitations Through Courier
Chairman of the disciplinary committee, Chief Tom Ikimi, told journalists that invitations were sent to both Ortom and Anyanwu through DHL courier service, with evidence of receipt. However, Ortom denied receiving the invitation.
> “We sent the invitations through DHL, and we have evidence that they received them. But in Ortom’s case, they said it was not received. So, we are giving them another opportunity by resending the invitation.”
For Anyanwu, the committee stated that he cited health challenges and presented a doctor’s report confirming a medical appointment on the scheduled day.
Ortom Demands Apology, Threatens Legal Action
In a swift response, Ortom issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the committee, demanding a public apology for allegedly defaming him.
Through his lawyer, C. T. Mue, Ortom accused the committee of violating the PDP Constitution by making public statements on allegations without first notifying him.
> “The premature publication of allegations against our client, without being duly informed, as provided by Section 57(4) of the PDP Constitution (2017 as amended), has led to public ridicule and reputational harm.”
Citing Section 57(7) of the PDP Constitution, Ortom argued that only the National Executive Committee (NEC) has the authority to discipline a former governor or NEC member, rendering the disciplinary committee’s actions procedurally defective and unconstitutional.
Ortom’s demands include:
1. Immediate withdrawal of the committee’s press statement issued on February 5, 2025.
2. A written apology within 48 hours of receiving the letter.
3. Cessation of public commentary on the matter until formal notification of any allegations.
Failure to comply, the letter warned, would lead to legal action, including a defamation lawsuit and a petition under the Cybercrimes Act 2015.
Committee Justifies Disciplinary Actions
Defending its mandate, Ikimi clarified that the committee only acts on petitions received and does not initiate disciplinary cases independently.
> “This committee does not write petitions; we only attend to petitions sent to us. If there’s no petition against someone, we do nothing about it. We are not here to act on newspaper reports.”
On the issue of Anyanwu’s status as National Secretary, Ikimi maintained that the petition was sent to him in that capacity, and the committee would proceed accordingly unless officially informed otherwise.
With the hearing rescheduled for March 4, the PDP’s internal crisis appears far from over, as key figures in the party continue to
challenge the legitimacy of the disciplinary process.
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was thrown into disarray on Wednesday over the affirmation of Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the party’s National Secretary.
The lingering leadership tussle over the position has continued to divide the NWC and other stakeholders, following a legal battle between Sen. Samuel Anyanwu and Udeh-Okoye. The crisis escalated despite the December 20, 2024, judgment of the Court of Appeal in Enugu, which upheld Udeh-Okoye as the rightful occupant of the position.
PDP Officially Recognizes Udeh-Okoye
In a statement on Wednesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, confirmed that the NWC had extensively deliberated on the matter during its meeting on February 12, 2025.
According to Ologunagba, the NWC thoroughly examined:
The Declaratory Judgment of the High Court of Enugu
The Court of Appeal Judgment affirming Udeh-Okoye
The Legal Opinions of Dr. Kabiru T. Turaki, SAN, and the PDP National Legal Adviser
Following its review, the NWC overwhelmingly endorsed Udeh-Okoye as the substantive National Secretary, affirming that there was no superseding judgment challenging the Court of Appeal’s decision.
“The NWC has commenced the transmission of its resolution affirming Rt. Hon. S.K.E Udeh-Okoye as PDP National Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant bodies for recognition in line with the judgment of the Court of Appeal.”
Ologunagba further reassured party members that the NWC remains committed to the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), rule of law, and the party’s founding vision.
Anyanwu Rejects Affirmation, Says NWC Never Met
However, Sen. Anyanwu dismissed Ologunagba’s statement, insisting that the NWC never convened a meeting on the matter. He described the announcement as the position of a few individuals, rather than the entire NWC.
“The NWC never met; that is Ologunagba and a few others’ position. The matter was only discussed on the WhatsApp platform. Therefore, the NWC has not met regarding it, as the matter is still in court.”
Corroborating Anyanwu’s stance, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Amb. Umar Damagun, reportedly acknowledged that no physical NWC meeting was held to adopt any official position on the matter.
The development highlights the deepening internal crisis within the PDP, as factions continue to disagree over leadership decisions despite legal pronouncements.
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has emphasized that prioritizing condom use is a crucial step toward ending HIV/AIDS in society. The organization warned that the decline in condom usage has contributed to the rising prevalence of HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), making prevention efforts more challenging.
In a statement marking International Condom Day (ICD), AHF Nigeria reaffirmed that achieving the global goal of ending HIV/AIDS is impossible without promoting condoms as a key preventive tool.
As part of its advocacy, AHF Nigeria announced that it will launch a nationwide testing campaign and distribute free condoms across Benue, Abuja, and five other states to encourage safer sexual practices.
Call for Affordable and Accessible Condoms
The organization also criticized the high cost of condoms, citing that labeling them as medical devices has further driven up prices, making them less accessible to many people. AHF urged governments and stakeholders to eliminate barriers to condom affordability and prioritize funding to ensure wider access.
Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria Country Program Director, reiterated the importance of condom use, stating:
> “We’re reminding everyone that using condoms is the best way to prevent HIV, other STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. AHF created this day (ICD) to promote safer sex and make condoms accessible for all. When used correctly, condoms provide effective protection for you and your partner. So, no excuses—wrap it up every time.”
Similarly, Dr. Penninah Lutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief, highlighted the need for urgent action:
> “Condoms are the most cost-effective method of protection against HIV and other STIs, yet many Africans lack access due to stockouts, unaffordable prices, and high taxation. This International Condom Day, we call on governments and stakeholders to remove these barriers, prioritize funding, and ensure free or affordable condoms for all who need them.”
ICD Commemoration in Nigeria
AHF Nigeria has invited the public to participate in ICD activities, which will be commemorated in Lokoja, Kogi State, on February 13. The event will feature:
Exciting activities to promote safe sex awareness
Free condom distribution
Educational sessions on proper condom use
To raise awareness, AHF Nigeria will also organize a road walk in Kogi State, involving:
Students from higher institutions
Civil society organizations
The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW)
Officials from the Kogi State Ministry of Health and the State Agency for the Control of AIDS
The walk will begin at the Kogi State Ministry of Health, passing through major landmarks such as the Post Office, Ganaja Bridge, and Specialist Hospital, before concluding at the Federal University Lokoja.
Nationwide Testing and Awareness Campaigns
In addition to the Lokoja event, AHF Nigeria will conduct HIV testing and free condom distribution in its six operational states:
Abuja (FCT)
Anambra
Akwa Ibom
Benue
Cross River
Nasarawa
As part of youth engagement, young people from Kogi, Abuja, Benue, Cross River, and Nasarawa will participate in a video challenge to promote safe sex practices.
International Condom Day: Promoting Safer Sex
International Condom Day (ICD) is observed annually on February 13 to raise awareness about the importance of condoms in preventing HIV/AIDS, STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. The day also serves as a platform to advocate for greater access to sexual health resources.
AHF Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safer sex practices and e
nsuring that condoms remain accessible and affordable for all Nigerians.
By: Uju Nwanekezie-Egemole
Ambassador Fubara Blessing, the Managing Director and CEO of D’Consiglories LLC, has announced his commitment to organizing and hosting the Niger Delta Music and Arts Project (MAP) as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). This initiative was initially intended to be one of the eight specimens of PROJECT HOPE by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). However, due to delays attributed to possible internal bottlenecks or other undisclosed reasons within the Commission, stakeholders from across the region have raised concerns about the project’s stagnation.
By:Uju Nwanekezie-Egemole
