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Africa Leads Global Fight Against HIV as World AIDS Day 2024 Highlights Successes , Challenges-WHO

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Moeti
WHO Regional Director for Africa

The African region has emerged as a global frontrunner in combating HIV, making significant strides in reducing infections and expanding treatment access, says Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

Speaking on World AIDS Day 2024, under the theme “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”, Dr. Moeti emphasized the critical intersection of human rights and healthcare access. She noted that for the first time in 2023, the number of new HIV infections outside sub-Saharan Africa exceeded those within the region, a testament to Africa’s progress despite its substantial burden and resource limitations.

Key Achievements in Africa’s Fight Against HIV

Seven African nations have met the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with the region achieving a notable 90-82-76 rating overall.

21.3 million Africans are now on antiretroviral therapy, significantly improving life expectancy across the continent.

Botswana and Namibia have been globally recognized for their efforts in eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, attaining “silver tier” and “bronze tier” status, respectively, under WHO’s Path to Elimination criteria.

Innovations and Challenges

Africa has rapidly adopted advanced HIV prevention methods such as injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and the dapivirine vaginal ring. These tools reflect the region’s commitment to halting the spread of HIV.

However, Dr. Moeti cautioned against complacency, citing challenges such as stigma, discrimination, social inequalities, and the ongoing strain on health systems due to frequent disease outbreaks.

“Despite advancements in science and biomedical tools, universal access remains a challenge,” she said, urging governments and stakeholders to invest in policies that address these barriers.

The Role of Communities

Dr. Moeti underscored the pivotal role of communities in shaping and implementing interventions. “Communities are key partners in co-creating solutions to address human rights-related barriers to care. Their voices must be heard,” she stated.

Vision for the Future

Calling for integrated, person-centered healthcare approaches, Dr. Moeti emphasized the need to prioritize vulnerable populations to sustain the momentum in the fight against HIV.

“By protecting everyone’s right to health and reducing new HIV infections, we can achieve an AIDS-free generation,” she concluded, calling for collective efforts from governments, partners, healthcare providers, and civil society to eliminate HIV by 2030.

As the world observes World AIDS Day, Africa’s achievements shine as a beacon of hope, inspiring global commitment to securing an AIDS-free future.

Malaria: FG Declares Economic , Developmental Emergency

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Government has categorized malaria as both a health and developmental crisis, underscoring the urgent need for its elimination.

This declaration was made by Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, during the inaugural meeting of the Advisory on Malaria Elimination in Nigeria (AMEN), held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

In a statement signed by Mr. Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director of Information & Public Relations, Prof. Pate described malaria as a “wicked problem” severely impacting Nigeria’s health and economic growth.

A National and Global Challenge

Nigeria bears 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of global malaria deaths, accounting for over 180,000 child deaths under the age of five in 2022. The economic toll is staggering, with malaria costing the nation more than $1.1 billion annually in lost GDP due to reduced productivity and increased healthcare costs.

“This is not just a health crisis; it is an economic and developmental emergency,” Prof. Pate stated.

Strategic Goals for Malaria Elimination

The Coordinating Minister highlighted malaria elimination as a critical aspect of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and aligned it with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The National Malaria Strategic Plan 2021-2025 aims to:

Reduce malaria prevalence to below 10%.

Cut malaria-related mortality by half, achieving fewer than 50 deaths per 1,000 live births.

Advocacy for Grassroots and Community Involvement

Prof. Pate emphasized the role of traditional and religious leaders in driving behavioral changes at the grassroots. He called for widespread promotion of insecticide-treated nets, chemoprevention, and malaria vaccines as critical tools in the fight against malaria.

Role of the AMEN Advisory Body

The newly launched AMEN, chaired by global expert Prof. Rose Leke, will:

  1. Provide evidence-based solutions to address current malaria challenges.
  2. Advocate for malaria elimination to be prioritized in government budgets.
  3. Establish accountability frameworks to sustain progress.

Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

Speaking at the event, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, stressed the importance of collaboration among the private sector, international partners, healthcare workers, and communities.

“For us to succeed, we must harness and coordinate the efforts of all stakeholders,” he said.

Renewed Government Commitment

Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom, represented by Dr. Chukwuma Anyaike, commended the administration’s renewed focus on malaria elimination. This commitment, she noted, breathes new life into efforts to eradicate the disease.

The meeting reinforced the government’s determination to tackle malaria, with a clear roadmap to address the health, economic, and social challenges posed by the disease.

FCTA Approves Procurement of Agricultural Inputs to Boost Dry Season Farming

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Executive Council has approved a contract for the procurement of critical agricultural inputs to support dry season farming in the territory.

Mandate Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Mr. Lawan Geidam, made this announcement after the 10th council meeting, held in Abuja on Monday.

Key Inputs for Dry Season Farming

Geidam outlined the agricultural inputs to be procured, including:

250 metric tonnes of NPK fertilizer

300 metric tonnes of urea

310 knapsack sprayers

3,500 liters of liquid fertilizer

This initiative marks the first significant investment by the FCT Administration in supporting dry season farming through the provision of irrigation-focused inputs.

Encouraging Year-Round Agriculture

Speaking on the importance of the project, Geidam emphasized the need to extend agricultural activities beyond the rainy season by promoting irrigation farming:

“The rainy season has ended, and we want to encourage dry season farming among our farmers. This will enable them to engage in agricultural production all year round.”

The initiative is expected to increase food production and ensure food security within the FCT.

Ministerial Support

Geidam commended the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for approving the proposal, noting that the support would lead to the expansion of irrigation farming across the territory.

“This move will significantly help in meeting the food needs of the FCT population,” he added.

This approval highlights the FCTA’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development and its efforts to strengthen the local food supply chain.

FCTA Approves ₦995 Million for Digital Learning Tools in Senior Secondary Schools

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Executive Council has approved ₦995 million for the procurement of over 1,000 laptops for senior secondary schools within the territory.

The decision was announced by the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Education Secretariat, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, during a press briefing after the 10th council meeting, presided over by the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, on Monday in Abuja.

Dr. Hayyo emphasized that the initiative aims to equip students with digital skills to enhance their preparation for examinations like WAEC, NECO, and JAMB.

“The Executive Council of the FCTA has approved the procurement and distribution of over 1,000 laptops to senior secondary schools. This initiative will transform FCT schools from traditional classroom teaching to a media-based education system,” he stated.

He further noted the importance of embracing digital learning and teaching methods to align with modern educational standards.

In addition to the education sector initiatives, the Mandate Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat (ARDS), Lawan Geidam, revealed that the council approved the procurement of 250 metric tonnes of fertilizer to support dry-season farming.

“The council has given approval for the procurement of 250 metric tonnes of fertilizers, including NPK, Urea, and liquid fertilizers, to be distributed to farmers across the six area councils,” Lawan said.

This support is expected to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security in the FCT.

The Executive Council meeting was attended by FCT Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, and other mandate secretaries.

This development underscores the FCTA’s commitment to enhancing education and agriculture, two critical sectors for the territory’s sustainable development.

FCTA Reaffirms Commitment to Relocating Apo Mechanic Village for Infrastructure Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has restated its resolve to ensure a transparent and fair process in relocating the Apo Mechanic Village to its permanent site in Wasa District.

This initiative will facilitate the construction of the 10-lane Outer Southern Expressway, a critical project aimed at enhancing connectivity within the Federal Capital Territory.

Relocation Fee and Enumeration

Speaking at a press briefing after the 10th FCT Executive Council Meeting, Chief Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), addressed concerns surrounding the N300,000 application fee for relocation.

“The FCTA is not interested in making money from the traders, dealers, and artisans. What we want is to ensure that only those genuinely operating in the Apo road corridor benefit from the relocation exercise,” Obuah explained.

Obuah also disclosed that while the Apo Mechanic Village reportedly comprises 51 associations with over 51,800 members, a physical enumeration exercise by the FCTA identified only 15,000 genuine operators.

Of these, 12,000 individuals have so far applied and paid the relocation fee. Obuah assured stakeholders that the council is considering reducing the fee to make it more affordable for all legitimate operators.

Committee for Inclusive Relocation

To ensure a smooth and inclusive process, the FCT Executive Council has directed the formation of a relocation committee. The committee will:

Verify the authenticity of all spare part dealers, traders, and artisans slated for relocation.

Protect the interests of all stakeholders involved.

Ensure the relocation aligns with the goal of developing Wasa and supporting Abuja’s infrastructure advancement.

Enhancing Connectivity Through Development

The relocation of Apo Mechanic Village is key to clearing the corridor for the Outer Southern Expressway, a 10-lane project that will significantly improve access to Wasa and surrounding areas.

Chief Obuah reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to a seamless transition, prioritizing the welfare of those affected while advancing the city’s broader development agenda.

“Our focus is on achieving inclusive growth and enhancing infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the FCT,” he said.

This move underscores the FCTA’s dedication to balancing urban development with stakeholder welfare, paving the way for a more connected and sustainable Abuja.

Youth Alliance Accuses Deputy Senate President of Interference in North West Development Commission Appointments

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

The Youth Alliance for Sustainable Development (YASD), a coalition of youth groups from seven North West states, has accused the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, of attempting to influence the composition of the North West Development Commission’s management team.

Speaking in Abuja on Monday, YASD spokesman Ahmed Sambo raised concerns over what he described as “lopsided appointments” favouring Kano and Jigawa states in the leadership and board membership of the commission.

He expressed concern over what he described as “lopsided appointments” in the composition of management and board members of the commission in favour of Jigawa and Kano states.

According to him, “A critical look at the composition of the management and board members indicates non adherence to due diligence.

“Board Chairman, Amb. Haruna Ginsau, Kano state, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Abdullahi Ma’aji, Jigawa; Alhaji Yahaya Namahe, member, Sokoto state; and Malam Aminu Sulaiman, member, Kebbi.

“Others are Tijjani Kaura, member, Zamfara; Abdulkadir Usman, member, Kaduna State; Muhammad Wudil, member, Kano state; Shamsu Sule, member, Katsina state; and Nasidi Ali, member, Jigawa.

“The composition shows that Kano and Jigawa got two key positions each while the remaining five states got one slot each,” he said.

He said that after securing the two key positions of the commission, Kano and Jigawa states also benefited from board representation, arguing that the appointments appeared one-sided.

He also faulted siting the headquarters of the commission in Kano, the state of the pioneer board chairman.

He pointed out that the commission was established in response to the yearnings and aspirations of the seven states in the region.

“Some of the cardinal objectives of the commission is reintegration and resettlement of displaced persons, restoration of economic activities halted by insurgency as well as improving infrastructural investments.

“However, the lopsided appointments could be detrimental to achieving these objectives, and the mission may likely be jeopardised due to personal interest,” he said.

He alleged that certain individuals behind the lopsided appointments want to capitalise on the commission to propel their gubernatorial ambitions in Kano and Kaduna states respectively.

“The individuals are still trying to manoeuvre and corner other strategic appointments, especially executive directors position to their cronies and political associates against all odds.

“We, therefore, wish to strongly oppose this move and call for an open and transparent process in running the commission for the benefit of all against selected few,” Sambo said.

FG Pledges Enhanced Security For South-East Region

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

… Adequate security is vital for business prosperity – Badaru

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, has assured the people of the South-East of enhanced security measures, emphasizing that a secure environment is crucial for business growth and prosperity.

During his operational visit to Enugu in the South-East, the Minister addressed officers and personnel of the 82 Division/Joint task force south East Operation Udo ka under the General officer commanding, Major-General H.T Dada .He appreciated their performance while urging them to intensify their efforts in combating insecurity in the region. He also engaged with key stakeholders, including heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, students, and other community leaders, to discuss collaborative strategies for addressing the current security challenges. Other military platforms visited by the Minister included the Nigerian Airforce base Emene, Enugu.

“President Tinubu has directed me to engage with you all to find sustainable solutions to insecurity. Without security, there can be no peace or development,” Badaru stated. He acknowledged the entrepreneurial spirit of the South-East populace, asserting that security and peace are essential for businesses to thrive. “We seek your candid suggestions and information on how we can practically enhance security and foster lasting peace in this region,” he added.

The Minister reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to eradicating all forms of insecurity in the South-East . He elucidated on the progress made by the Tinubu administration over the past year in combating insecurity across the nation, particularly in these region.

“There is a renewed determination to intensify our efforts against all forms of insecurity under President Tinubu’s leadership,” he declared.

In his remarks, Major General Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division/ JointTask south East Operation Udo ka, announced that the Army is implementing robust strategies to ensure a safe and secure environment for the upcoming festive season. “Through the Joint Security Task Force in the South-East, code-named ‘Operation UDO KA’, we aim to create a secure atmosphere that facilitates the usual mass return for Christmas,” he stated.

Additionally, retired Major General John Nwoga emphasized the role of social media in exacerbating insecurity, noting that the circulation of old videos depicting criminal activities contributes to fear and panic within communities. “It is imperative for our people to collectively address the negative impact of misleading information and fake news proliferated through social media,” Nwoga urged.

Furthermore, the Minister visited Imo State in continuation of his operational tour of southEast on Friday 22nd November 2024. He addressed the troops at the FOB okigwe, 211 Quick Response Group, Nigerian Airforce owerri and Naval Base Oguta in Imo State. He expressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR message to them and that they should improve on their successes.

The Honourable Minister also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Hope Uzodimma of imo state to extend his gratitude to the Governor for all his support to the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army/ Joint Task force south East, Operation udo ka. “All the officers and men appreciates you.”

The Ministry of Defence remains committed to fostering a secure and peaceful environment conducive to business and community development in the South-East. We are determined to end insecurity in Nigeria.

Kano International Trade Fair: Defence Minister Urges Support For Nigerian Military To Ensure Peace , Security For Economic Growth

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

…Stresses that peace is essential for national development

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has called for robust support for the Nigerian Military in its ongoing efforts to combat insecurity, emphasizing that peace is a cornerstone of national development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 45th International Trade Fair organized by the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (KACCIMA), the Minister highlighted that an improving security situation in the country will pave the way for enhanced economic prosperity. He reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to restoring peace and stability and urged Nigerians to continue supporting the government with prayers while maintaining confidence in the security forces, whose unwavering dedication is crucial to sustaining these achievements.

As a former National President and now Lifetime National Vice President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Minister Badaru’s participation underscores his strong ties to the business community and his commitment to promoting economic development in Nigeria. His longstanding relationship with KACCIMA further emphasizes his dedication to advancing trade and industry within the region.

The trade fair attracted numerous dignitaries, including representatives from the Office of the Vice President of Nigeria and the Governor of Kano State, as well as prominent business leaders from both Nigeria and abroad. This event serves as a vital platform for fostering economic cooperation and investment, with a particular focus on diversifying Nigeria’s economy through non-oil exports.

Minister Badaru commended KACCIMA for its dedication to organizing this annual trade fair and reiterated that such initiatives are essential for strengthening Nigeria’s economy. He emphasized the critical role of non-oil exports in achieving the nation’s diversification goals and called on all stakeholders to collaborate in harnessing Nigeria’s vast export potential.

Minister Badaru’s presence at the trade fair highlights its significance as a key driver for economic growth, innovation, and international business connections, positioning Kano as a central hub for commerce and industry in Nigeria.

MSMD Postpones Sixth National Council on Mining , Mineral Resources Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD), in collaboration with the Nasarawa State Government, has announced the postponement of the sixth edition of the National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development.

The event, originally scheduled to take place in Lafia, Nasarawa State, from November 27th to 29th, has been delayed due to logistical challenges. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Mary Ogbe, disclosed this in a statement, noting that a new date would be communicated in due course.

The annual conference is regarded as the highest policy formulation forum in the solid minerals sector. It serves as a platform for stakeholders across the private and public sectors, as well as representatives from various tiers of government, to deliberate on challenges hindering the growth of the sector and propose actionable solutions.

Dr. Ogbe emphasized the importance of the council, noting its role in shaping policies to enhance the performance and sustainability of Nigeria’s mining and mineral resources sector.

FCT Minister’s Aide, Lere Olayinka, Hits Back at Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described Imo Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu, the House of Representatives member for Ideato North and South Federal Constituency, as a “political hushpuppi” and a product of systemic anomalies within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Olayinka’s remarks came in response to Ugochinyere’s appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where the lawmaker accused Wike and the G5 Governors—Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Samuel Ortom (Benue), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia)—of working against the PDP.

Olayinka’s Counterattack

In a statement issued on Saturday, Olayinka criticized Ugochinyere for allegedly lacking focus on his legislative duties and for what he termed as “unnecessary attacks” on Wike.

“This is one of the things you get when people who joined the PDP yesterday are awarded the ticket of the party this morning. If not for the aberration in the PDP that produced a character like Ugochinyere, someone who only joined the party in 2022 won’t be the one lecturing us about party loyalty.”

Olayinka accused Ugochinyere of retaining ties with the Action Peoples Party (APP) despite being elected on the PDP platform, describing this as a clear act of political opportunism.

“Even till today, as a PDP Rep member, Ugochinyere is still holding on to his Action Peoples Party (APP), using it to cash out in Rivers State.”

“Hustling with Self-Appointed Titles”

Olayinka further mocked Ugochinyere for allegedly fabricating titles to bolster his political relevance.

“When he got to the House of Representatives and there was no title under which his political hushpuppism would continue, he awarded himself the non-existent title of ‘Spokesperson of Opposition Lawmakers Coalition in the 10th National Assembly,’ claiming this was bestowed by the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP).”

He questioned the legitimacy of CUPP and its authority to appoint representatives in the National Assembly, adding that such actions amounted to “impersonation and hustling.”

Call for Focused Leadership

Olayinka urged Ugochinyere to concentrate on addressing the needs of his constituents rather than engaging in political distractions, accusing him of being out of touch with his constituency.

“Ugochinyere should focus on the purpose for which he was elected so his constituents can stop seeing him as a failure. Consistently passing votes of no confidence against him speaks volumes about his performance.”

The clash underscores the deepening divide within the PDP, with key figures trading accusations amidst internal party tensions.

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