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FG Launches National Strategic Plan to Eliminate Cholera by 2029

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled the National Strategic Plan of Action on Cholera Control (NSPACC) 2025–2029, a multi-sectoral initiative aimed at eliminating cholera as a public health threat.

The plan, launched in Abuja by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) in collaboration with the Federal Ministries of Environment, Water Resources & Sanitation, and Health & Social Welfare, aligns with the Global Task Force on Cholera Control (GTFCC) roadmap to eliminate the disease in at least 20 countries, including Nigeria, by 2030.

A Milestone in Cholera Control

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, represented by Permanent Secretary Richard Pheelangwah, described the NSPACC as a major milestone in Nigeria’s fight against cholera.

“This plan underscores our commitment to meeting global Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) standards, which are crucial for cholera prevention and control,” he stated.

He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to improve access to safe drinking water and sanitation, particularly in communities prone to cholera outbreaks.

Health and Environment Ministries Pledge Support

Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, represented by Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom, stressed that eliminating cholera requires a collaborative, multi-sectoral approach.

Similarly, Minister of Environment, Mahmud Kambari, noted that the NSPACC launch represents a critical step in Nigeria’s broader fight against infectious diseases, pledging the Ministry’s support for nationwide implementation.

NCDC’s Commitment to Prevention

In his address, NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris, represented by Dr. Sikiru Badaru, highlighted that the NSPACC focuses on prevention rather than reactive outbreak response.

“This strategy incorporates robust surveillance systems, coordinated health and WASH interventions, and active community engagement, particularly in cholera hotspot locations,” he stated.

Stakeholders Urged to Drive Implementation

Government agencies, development partners, civil society, and private sector players have been called upon to take ownership of the plan and ensure its success.

With the NSPACC in place, Nigeria is poised to make significant strides in reducing cholera incidence and mortality, improving public health, and achieving its global health targets by 2030.

Senate Approves Removal of Three Resident Electoral Commissioners Over Electoral Misconduct

By
Roland Edet
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0

The Senate has approved the termination of the appointment of three Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Abia, Adamawa, and Sokoto States over alleged electoral infractions during the 2023 general elections.

The decision follows an Executive Communication from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requesting the Senate to invoke Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to officially remove:

  • Dr. Nura Ali – Sokoto State REC
  • Barrister Hudu Yunusa Ari – Adamawa State REC
  • Prof. Ikemefuna Chijioke Uzochukwu – Abia State REC

Allegations Against the RECs

The three electoral officials were suspended in 2023 following reports of misconduct, which included:

  • Dr. Nura Ali was indicted by the Department of State Services (DSS) for allegedly compromising the 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections. He reportedly confessed to receiving $150,000 from politicians.
  • Barrister Hudu Yunusa Ari was suspended by former President Muhammadu Buhari after he illegally declared the Adamawa governorship election results, usurping the power of the Returning Officer.
  • Prof. Ikemefuna Chijioke Uzochukwu was accused of mishandling election logistics, abandoning the Governorship and State Assembly elections, and refusing to reschedule supplementary elections.

Senate’s Justification for Removal

Senate President Godswill Akpabio explained that the removal aligns with the Senate’s constitutional duty to uphold electoral integrity and strengthen corporate governance in Nigeria.

“By virtue of Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution, the Senate is empowered to embark on this legislative process, ensuring the removal of the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners,” Akpabio stated.

He emphasized that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is one of the institutions subject to this constitutional provision, making the decision legally binding.

With the Senate’s approval supported by a two-thirds majority, the resolution will now be forwarded to President Tinubu for final action, officially sealing the fate of the three RECs.

This move is seen as part of the 10th Senate’s commitment to electoral accountability and ensuring that electoral officials uphold the rule of law and democratic principles in Nigeria.

FRSC Cracks Down on Car Theft, Recovers 73 Stolen Vehicles in 2024

By
Roland Edet
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0

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has dealt a major blow to car theft syndicates across Nigeria, recovering 73 stolen vehicles in 2024 through the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS) Portal.

According to Olusegun Ogungbemide, Corps Public Education Officer, this achievement underscores the FRSC’s commitment to national security, intelligence gathering, and road safety.

How the Vehicles Were Recovered

The stolen vehicles were identified and retrieved during intelligence-driven operations, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies at the point of registration.

The 73 recovered vehicles include:

  • 21 Toyota Corolla
  • 17 Toyota Camry
  • 6 Lexus 350
  • 6 Toyota Sienna
  • 4 Toyota Highlander
  • 3 Lexus ES350
  • 1 Toyota Hilux, 1 Toyota RAV4, 1 Toyota Venza, 1 Toyota Celica, 1 Pontiac Vibe, and several others.

FRSC’s Commitment to Security

Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed praised the personnel for their bravery, professionalism, and dedication, reaffirming the Corps’ resolve to rid the country of criminal elements threatening public safety.

“The FRSC will continue to work tirelessly to not only save innocent lives but also protect the economic interests of Nigerians,” he stated.

He urged vehicle owners to ensure they provide **accurate information during

National Assembly to Pass N54.2 Trillion 2025 Budget on February 8

By
Saladin Babagana
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0

The National Assembly is set to pass the 2025 budget proposal on February 8, following President Bola Tinubu’s request for an additional N4.5 trillion, bringing the total budget size to N54.2 trillion.

The President had initially presented a N49.7 trillion budget to a joint session of the National Assembly on December 18, 2024. However, in separate letters to both legislative chambers on Wednesday, he announced the increase based on additional revenues generated by key government agencies.

According to the letter read in the Senate by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the budget increase is attributed to:

  • N1.4 trillion from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
  • N1.2 trillion from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)
  • N1.8 trillion from other Government-Owned Agencies

In response, Senate President Akpabio directed the request to the Senate Committee on Appropriations for immediate consideration, assuring that the final budget would be passed before the end of the month.

The 2025 budget is expected to prioritize economic growth, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and security, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

Tinubu Departs for France Ahead of AU Summit in Ethiop

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

President Bola Tinubu has departed Abuja for Paris, France, on a private visit ahead of his participation in the upcoming African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron before proceeding to Addis Ababa early next week.

The 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council and the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of AU Heads of State are scheduled to take place from February 12 to 16, 2025.

As the Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu is expected to engage in high-level discussions on Africa’s economic integration, security, and development strategies during the summit.

Further details on his engagements in France and Ethiopia are expected in the coming days.

FCTA Inaugurates National Health Fellows Committee to Strengthen Healthcare Workforce

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has inaugurated the FCT National Health Fellows Selection Committee as part of a nationwide initiative to recruit Health Fellows under the National Health Fellows Programme, approved by President Bola Tinubu. This programme seeks to engage young professionals in the health sector across all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria.

The initiative is a key component of the Human Capital Opportunity for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Programme, aimed at building a sustainable healthcare workforce by attracting young talents and early-career professionals to drive healthcare reforms.

A Strategic Investment in Human Resources for Health

Speaking at the inauguration, the Mandate Secretary of Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, described the programme as a critical investment in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

“As the Federal Government continues to upgrade existing Primary Health Care (PHC) centers and establish new ones, these fellows will play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare delivery at the grassroots level,” Dr. Fasawe said.

She emphasized that the recruited fellows would be responsible for monitoring PHC activities, providing feedback to the government, and supporting public health initiatives.

Dr. Fasawe also urged committee members to ensure a fair and transparent selection process so that only the most qualified candidates are chosen. The selected fellows will undergo training in leadership, public health, financial management, and monitoring and evaluation to equip them for their roles.

Boosting Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

The Permanent Secretary of HSES, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, who serves as Vice Chairman of the committee, commended the initiative as a major step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

“This programme is a reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the health sector and ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality healthcare services,” he stated.

Dr. Adam also praised the FCT Administration, under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike, for prioritizing healthcare as a key development agenda in Abuja.

WHO’s Role and Selection Process

The FCT State Coordinator for the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Kumshida Yakubu Balami, outlined the WHO’s support and guidelines for the programme’s successful implementation.

Dr. Balami stated that the WHO mandates the formation of a seven-member selection committee, which the FCT has fully complied with. The appointed members include:

  • Dr. Dan Gadzama
  • Dr. Teresa Nwachukwu (SWAP Desk Officer)
  • Dr. Aderonke Akande
  • Mrs. Maimuna Abdullahi
  • Mr. Danladi Chiya

The committee is responsible for screening candidates, overseeing the selection process, and submitting a semi-final list to the SWAP Coordinator’s Office for approval.

Shaping the Future of Healthcare in Nigeria

The inauguration of the FCT National Health Fellows Selection Committee is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s health sector reform. By investing in young professionals, the government aims to strengthen healthcare service delivery, improve public health outcomes, and create a new generation of health leaders.

As Nigeria continues to push for sustainable health sector reforms, stakeholders remain hopeful that this initiative will transform healthcare accessibility and efficiency across the country.

ADC Laments APC’s Leadership Failure, Begins Training for 2027 Elections

By
Shehu Danladi
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0

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that since 2015, the ruling party has failed to provide purposeful leadership for Nigeria.

ADC National Chairman, Dr. Ralphs Okey Nwosu, made this remark on Tuesday during a leadership training session in Abuja, emphasizing that leadership remains Nigeria’s biggest challenge.

Training Transformational Leaders for 2027

Nwosu disclosed that the ADC has embarked on a series of leadership training programs to develop transformational leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Nigeria needs devotional and committed leaders with the fear of God. A leader must be humble, have integrity, and lead by example,” he stated.

He added that leadership is not just about holding positions but about taking responsibility. The training, he explained, will incorporate perspectives from both Christian and Muslim teachings to shape leaders who can serve Nigeria effectively.

APC Lacked Vision, Says ADC Deputy Secretary

The ADC’s Deputy National Secretary, Dr. Nkem Ukandu, also spoke at the event, stressing that Nigeria needs visionary leaders who can drive transformational change.

He blamed the APC’s failure on its lack of a clear vision when it took power in 2015.

“Many leaders fail due to lack of purpose, resilience, or integrity. APC came to power without a vision, and that is why its administration failed,” he stated.

Ukandu emphasized the need for leaders who embody the “Joseph Model”—referring to the biblical figure Joseph, who demonstrated wisdom, resilience, and the ability to solve societal problems.

“A leader must have a dream, like Joseph, whose vision eventually came to pass. Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream, and today, racial discrimination in America has significantly reduced,” he added.

Call for Organic Leadership Selection

Ukandu lamented that Nigeria’s leadership selection process has not been organic.

“Few party delegates gather to choose candidates, and the electorate is left with limited options. Leadership in Nigeria is positional and based on influence rather than merit,” he said.

He reiterated that true leadership is about influence, resilience, and solving real-world challenges, urging Nigerians to support a leadership model that prioritizes vision, responsibility, and integrity.

With the ADC positioning itself as a credible alternative for 2027, the party hopes its leadership training initiative will equip future leaders with the right values to reshape Nigeria’s governance and development trajectory.

NIMET UNVEILS 2025 SEASONAL CLIMATE PREDICTION, HIGHLIGHTS DELAYED RAINS, SEVERE DRY SPELLS, TEMPERATURE INCREASES

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has released its 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), forecasting delayed onset of rains in northern and central states, early rains in the south, and normal rainfall onset for the rest of the country.

The SCP also predicts severe 21-day dry spells from June to August in northern states, a 15-day severe dry spell in Oyo State, and moderate 15-day dry spells in 13 southern states, including Ekiti, Osun, Ondo, and Edo.

Critical Predictions for 2025

  • Rainfall Patterns:
    • Northern and central states will experience delayed rainfall onset.
    • Southern states will see early rains.
    • Lagos and Ogun states are expected to face severe effects of the “August Break,” with little or no rain for 27–40 days.
  • Temperature Outlook:
    • Above-average temperatures are expected across the country in January, February, March, and May.
    • Cooler-than-normal temperatures are predicted in April for most northern states.

Empowering Stakeholders Through Early Warning

The SCP, themed “The Role of Early Warnings Towards a Climate Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development,” was unveiled in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN.

The minister emphasized that the SCP serves as an essential early warning tool aligned with the UN’s Early Warning for All Initiative. He highlighted its role in preparing against hazards such as floods, dry spells, and temperature extremes.

“Early warning systems, backed by robust climate predictions, are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability across sectors, particularly in aviation,” Keyamo stated.

Impact on Aviation and Other Sectors

Keyamo underscored the SCP’s importance in addressing challenges posed by climate change on aviation, including erratic weather patterns and increasing delays due to adverse conditions.

“The SCP empowers stakeholders with the knowledge to anticipate and adapt to climatic changes, ensuring uninterrupted operations and safeguarding lives and property,” he added.

The document also provides critical insights for agriculture, disaster risk management, health, transport, and marine operations.

Stakeholders’ Reactions and Recommendations

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, commended NiMet and urged stakeholders to leverage the SCP for better planning.

NiMet’s Director General, Prof. Charles Anosike, stressed the importance of utilizing and providing feedback on the SCP for continuous improvement.

“Everyone present here today is a custodian of the anticipated early actions to ensure the SCP’s maximum impact,” he noted.

The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, highlighted the agency’s partnership with NiMet, stating that a post-SCP meeting will analyze disaster risks and provide advisories to sub-national governments for preparedness and mitigation planning.

Mrs. Patience Ogalo-Dickson, Executive Director of the Advocacy for Women With Disability Initiative (AWWDI), applauded NiMet for making the SCP inclusive by considering persons with disabilities, especially those affected by climate change.

Inclusive and Accessible SCP

The 2025 SCP has been translated into English, Pidgin English, Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo to ensure accessibility for a diverse audience.

With its actionable insights, the SCP aims to strengthen Nigeria’s resilience against climate challenges while fostering sustainable development across various sectors.

FCTA Shuts Down Illegal Clinic in Kuje, Arrests Operator Over Unsafe Medical Practices

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal medical facilities with the closure of Dada’s Clinic & Maternity in Kapwa, Gaube Community, Kuje Area Council. The facility was sealed by the Private Health Establishments Registration and Monitoring Committee (PHERMC) following reports of unsafe medical practices, including a fatal hernia operation.

This decisive action aligns with the directive of FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike, who has declared zero tolerance for unlicensed healthcare facilities in the nation’s capital.

According to the Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr. Lere Olayinka, the facility’s operator, Mr. Sabiu, who identified himself as a health worker, has been arrested and handed over to the police at Kuje Police Station for further investigation.

Illegal Procedures and Unsafe Conditions

A team from the Medical and Diagnostics Department, led by its Director under the directive of the Mandate Secretary, Health and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, inspected the facility on February 2, 2025. Their findings were alarming:

  • The clinic was performing unauthorized surgical procedures, including a hernia operation that resulted in a fatality.
  • Several patients had suffered complications and required emergency care elsewhere.
  • The structure was in a dilapidated and unhygienic condition, lacking basic medical infrastructure such as a reception area, nursing station, or sanitary facilities.

At the time of inspection, three patients were on admission, including an elderly individual receiving intravenous infusion. The patients were later referred to Kuje General Hospital for proper medical care.

Government’s Position on Healthcare Standards

Minister Nyesom Wike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enforcing healthcare regulations, warning that all unregistered facilities operating illegally would be shut down.

“Accrediting a facility is a simple process, and there is no excuse for operating illegally. The FCT Administration will ensure that all health facilities meet the required standards to protect residents from unsafe medical practices,” Wike stated.

The FCT Administration has urged residents to report suspicious medical facilities to authorities, emphasizing that public safety remains a top priority.

For further updates, residents can contact the Health and Environment Secretariat or visit designated government channels.

NHIA Increases Healthcare Payments to Boost Service Delivery

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Abuja—In a landmark move, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced significant increases in two primary payment mechanisms for healthcare providers—capitation and fee-for-service payments—the first major adjustment in over a decade.

The announcement was made by NHIA Director General, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, during a stakeholders’ meeting with Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and healthcare providers in Abuja on February 3, 2025. The adjustments, approved by the Honorable Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, will take effect in April 2025.

New Rates and Rationale

  • Capitation payments, which provide fixed annual payments to healthcare providers per enrolled patient, have increased by 93% compared to December 2023 rates.
  • Fee-for-service payments, which reimburse providers for specific medical procedures and services, have surged by 378%—the largest increase in NHIA’s history.

These adjustments follow an interim increase six months ago when capitation fees rose by 60% and fee-for-service payments by 40% to mitigate rising costs while awaiting an actuarial review.

According to Dr. Ohiri, the revised rates are backed by actuarial analysis to ensure fairness, financial sustainability, and improved service delivery. “With the increase in premiums, we expect that the quality of care for enrollees will be improved and sustained. Providers must deliver good quality care at no additional cost to enrollees, and NHIA will ensure strict enforcement,” he stated.

Impact on Healthcare and Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

The new rates aim to:

  • Enhance financial support for healthcare providers amid rising medical costs.
  • Incentivize quality service delivery by aligning provider compensation with market realities.
  • Protect consumers by ensuring better healthcare access and reliability.

Stakeholders at the meeting—including representatives of HMOs, Healthcare Provider Associations, and the Committee of Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) of Federal Tertiary Hospitals—welcomed the reforms. They commended NHIA’s bold steps toward stabilizing the healthcare industry and driving Nigeria closer to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The NHIA reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring implementation and ensuring that healthcare providers comply with the new structure. These changes, the authority emphasized, are part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system and improve national health outcomes.

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