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Reps Urge FG to Offer Free Cancer Screening, Subsidized Treatment for Nigerians

By
Saladin Babagana
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The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to provide free cancer screening and subsidized treatment for Nigerians at all stages of the disease.

This resolution followed the adoption of a motion presented during plenary on Wednesday, May 7, by Hon. Aderemi Oseni, who represents Ibarapa Central/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State.

Oseni, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), described cancer as an escalating public health crisis in Nigeria, stressing that the high cost of diagnosis and treatment has placed life-saving care out of reach for many citizens.

> “Cancer has become a major concern, with about 125,000 new cases diagnosed in 2020 alone. The most common types are breast, prostate, and cervical cancers,” he said.

The lawmaker noted that cancer care in Nigeria often costs tens of millions of naira per patient, depending on cancer type, disease stage, treatment options, and other health factors—making it unaffordable for a large segment of the population.

He also highlighted the shortage of radiotherapy machines, limited access to cancer medications, and the complex, expensive drug supply chain as critical barriers to effective cancer care. These constraints, he said, contribute to the widespread perception that only the wealthy can survive a cancer diagnosis.

> “Cancer affects both the rich and the poor. The burden is growing rapidly, but public funding for cancer control remains inadequate,” Oseni emphasized. “We must take action to reduce this suffering and increase access to care.”

Following the debate, the House mandated its Committee on Healthcare Services to work with the Federal Ministry of Health and other relevant agencies to establish a framework for cancer treatment subsidies and affordable medication.

The lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to expand cancer treatment centers across the country and ensure the procurement of additional radiotherapy machines.

Crucially, the House called for free, nationwide early cancer screening as part of efforts to reduce late-stage diagnoses and improve survival outcomes for all Nigerians.

FG Cleans Up 1,700 Hectares of Oil-Contaminated Ogoni Shoreline – Environment Minister

By
Gladys Phillip
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The Federal Government has successfully cleaned up 1,700 hectares of oil-contaminated shoreline in Ogoniland and trained 2,500 Ogoni youths and women in oil spill response and remediation efforts.

Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, disclosed this on Wednesday during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja. He highlighted the landmark achievements under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including what he described as the world’s largest mangrove restoration initiative, being implemented by the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).

According to the Minister, the pilot phase of the mangrove restoration covering 560 hectares is already 85% complete, with over 2 million red, black, and white mangrove seedlings planted.

> “This is Nigeria’s first mangrove restoration project involving multiple species. A total of 540 Ogoni youths and women have been engaged as community workers to support this vital environmental effort,” Lawal said.

He further revealed that the Ministry, through HYPREP, has commissioned nine out of ten major operational water treatment stations in Ogoniland, now supplying potable water to over 30 communities.

In addition, HYPREP is constructing a 100-bed Ogoni Specialist Hospital, currently at 67% completion, and a 40-bed Buan Cottage Hospital, which is 90% complete, to address critical health challenges resulting from years of oil pollution.

To strengthen healthcare delivery, four existing hospitals in Ogoni communities—Bori, Kpite, Nchia, and Terabo—have been upgraded with modern medical equipment.

The Minister also announced other national initiatives, including the registration of over 16,000 environmental health practitioners across public and private institutions by the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON). He added that 158 facilities have been issued carbon footprint certifications to support Nigeria’s climate action goals.

In partnership with UNIDO and the Government of Japan, the Ministry also commissioned a $2.9 million upgraded plastic polyethylene recycling facility at Iddu, Abuja, to drive sustainable waste management.

Addressing concerns around Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), Lawal said that 1,470 individuals have been trained in GMO detection and analysis by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) to enhance regulation and safeguard health and biodiversity.

He also highlighted ongoing afforestation and reforestation projects in Bagga Forest Reserve (Borno), Tila (Arewa LGA, Kebbi), Agwada (Kokona LGA, Nasarawa), and Karara (Lokoja LGA, Kogi).

Under the Ministry’s Bamboo Development Programme, Lawal announced the commencement of a Bamboo factory in Kogi State, with feasibility studies for similar factories

Reps Launch Probe into Federal College of Alternative Medicine Over Fund Misuse, Prolonged Closure

By
Olajumoke Sanusi
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The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the operations and financial activities of the Federal College of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Abuja, amid growing concerns over alleged mismanagement and the institution’s prolonged closure.

This followed the adoption of a motion at Wednesday’s plenary sponsored by Hon. Jonathan Gbefwi and four other lawmakers, who raised alarm over the college’s non-functional status and questionable disbursement of funds spanning more than a decade.

Established in 2008 as a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Health, the college was created based on recommendations from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to advance the practice of homeopathy, acupuncture, naturopathy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care. The institution derives its legal backing from the Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Act, Cap. M8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

In 2018, government efforts to integrate traditional medicine into Nigeria’s healthcare system culminated in the establishment of the Department of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine under the Ministry of Health.

However, while leading the debate, Gbefwi expressed concern that academic activities at the college have been suspended since October 16, 2010, following an order by the National Universities Commission (NUC), which shut down its degree programmes due to lack of accreditation.

Despite the shutdown, Gbefwi revealed that the college’s interim management—appointed by the Health Ministry after suspending the original leadership in 2011—has continued to receive and expend capital and overhead allocations totaling hundreds of millions of naira.

> “In 2016, a staff member was named Acting Head of Administration to run the institution, even though it has remained academically dormant,” he noted.

The lawmaker cited numerous petitions and counter-petitions accusing both Ministry officials and the college’s management of financial misconduct, unauthorized disbursement of public funds, and administrative abuses that have caught the attention of anti-corruption agencies.

He also condemned the continued appointment of a Sole Administrator to run the College, saying it violates the Federal College of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (Establishment) Act, 2021, which outlines a different governance structure.

> “The House is alarmed by reports of illegal staff suspensions, unpaid entitlements, arbitrary dismissals, and irregular recruitments carried out without due process,” Gbefwi stated.

In response, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas directed the House Committee on Specialty Healthcare to launch a comprehensive probe into the financial mismanagement, administrative irregularities, and legal violations surrounding the college. The committee will also examine the circumstances behind the NUC’s closure directive and the reasons for the institution’s continued non-operational status.

The investigation is expected to uncover the facts and recommend

Trade Your Escalade for Innoson: Atiku Dares Tinubu to Back ‘Nigeria First’ with Action

By
Roland Edet
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…Says Leading by Example Will Do More for Local Industries Than Empty Rhetoric

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate genuine support for Nigeria’s local industries by ditching his foreign-made luxury vehicles in favor of homegrown alternatives like Innoson or Nord automobiles.

Atiku, in a strongly worded statement titled “Nigeria First Policy: Trade Your Escalade for Innoson Motors” and signed by his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, described the Federal Government’s recent “Nigeria First” policy as a hollow public relations gimmick.

> “The Tinubu administration’s latest ‘Nigeria First’ mantra, paraded through the Federal Executive Council, is nothing but another tired PR stunt—designed to deceive, not deliver,” Atiku said.

He challenged the President to lead by example, starting with his official car:

> “We challenge President Tinubu to stop the noise and trade in his beloved Escalade for an Innoson, Nord or any made-in-Nigeria car. That single act will do more to promote local industry than a thousand policy memos.”

Atiku didn’t stop at cars. He also questioned the government’s sincerity in promoting Nigerian tourism and healthcare, urging Tinubu to abandon his foreign vacations and overseas medical checkups.

> “If he’s serious about patriotism, his next vacation should be at Obudu Cattle Ranch, Yankari Game Reserve, or Erin Ijesha Waterfalls. And if ‘Nigeria First’ really means anything, let the President undergo his next medical check-up at LUTH, UCH Ibadan, or the ₦41 billion Akwa Ibom Specialist Hospital,” the statement added.

Atiku accused the Tinubu administration of hypocrisy, saying the call for Nigerians to make sacrifices rings hollow when leaders continue to indulge in foreign luxuries.

> “True leadership isn’t about photo-ops or soundbites—it’s about setting the tone through action. Nigeria deserves real commitment, not this never-ending charade,” he stated.

He also called on federal ministers, whom he described as “Rolls Royce connoisseurs,” to embrace locally manufactured vehicles to match the administration’s rhetoric with visible, personal sacrifice.

The former vice president’s remarks underscore growing criticism of the government’s policies, which critics say often fail to align with the personal lifestyles of top officials.

Matawalle In High Level Meeting IN China To Bolster Nigeria’s Defence Capabilities

By
Victor Obabunmi
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In a significant move to enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, is participating in a high-level security meeting with a leading Chinese manufacturer of advanced anti-terrorism and high-tech defence equipments. The meeting took place in China and aimed to strengthen strategic defence ties between Nigeria and China.

The primary focus of this engagement was to formalize a collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Chinese firm and the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON). This partnership is expected to play a crucial role in advancing Nigeria’s security sector.

Under the terms of the MoU, the Chinese company has committed to investing in Nigeria’s defence infrastructure, with a comprehensive partnership that includes:

• Technology Transfer: Facilitating the transfer of cutting-edge defence technology to Nigeria.
• Local Production: Establishing local manufacturing capabilities for advanced military equipment.
• Capacity Building: Providing technical knowledge exchange to enhance the skills of Nigerian personnel.

Furthermore Matawalle,highlighted key areas of collaboration to include the maintenance and upgrading of existing military hardware, servicing of battle tanks, and offering military engineering services. Importantly, this partnership aims to extend its reach beyond Nigeria, providing military support services to neighbouring African countries and contributing to regional security and stability.

He emphasized that this landmark engagement represents a major advancement in Nigeria’s defence modernization agenda. He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to building a self-reliant, technologically advanced, and globally competitive military-industrial base.

In addition to these initiatives, the agreement encompasses the construction of new production lines for various ammunition types, including:

• 7.62×51mm ball cartridges
• 7.62×51mm blank cartridges
• 9×19mm pistol cartridges
• Machine gun ammunition

Furthermore, new manufacturing workshops and facilities will be established in Kaduna and Kachia, Kaduna State, for the production of brass casings, bullet jackets, and other essential defence components.

“This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a comprehensive renewal and strategic overhaul of Nigeria’s security and defence capabilities,” he stated.

Matawalle Commends Tinubu’s Reforms,Says Second Term Victory is Assured

By
Victor Obabunmi
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The Honorable Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his transformative reforms, asserting that these initiatives will pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria and potentially secure Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

This was contained in a statement signed by Patience Ituke for :Director, Information and Public Relation.

In his remarks, Minister Matawalle highlighted several key achievements of President Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the areas of Security and Defence. He noted the successful neutralization of over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, the arrest of 11,600 criminals, and the recovery of more than 10,000 weapons in 2024. The establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) has significantly enhanced strategic coordination in the fight against kidnapping.

Matawalle also commended the government’s Economic Initiatives, particularly the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, which aims to harness the agricultural potential of the North, promote economic growth, and empower millions of citizens. He pointed to the recent decline in grain prices across the country as evidence of the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies.

In addition, he emphasized the administration’s commitment to Infrastructure Development, noting that key projects, including road construction and improvements to transportation networks in the North, are vital for fostering economic growth.

On the issue of Local Government Autonomy, Matawalle expressed support for the local government autonomy law, which empowers local administrations to operate effectively, ensuring accountability and better governance at the grassroots level.

Matawalle’s commendation of President Tinubu’s performance extends beyond these areas, reflecting his belief that the President’s reforms will have a lasting positive impact on the nation. While he expressed confidence in Tinubu’s achievements, it is important to note that his projection of a second term victory in 2027 is based on the current trajectory of the administration’s performance. His optimism underscores the positive influence of Tinubu’s leadership and vision on the Nigerian populace.

AMMC Cracks Down on Developer Over Green Area Encroachment, Begins Demolition in Guzape

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) has begun demolition of illegal structures in Guzape District, following the arrest of a developer for encroaching on green areas and converting waterways into residential plots in violation of the Abuja Master Plan.

The developer, identified as Kadiri Ogbaidi of Citiscape Villa, was accused of flouting development approvals by selling government-reserved plots to unsuspecting subscribers.

AMMC Coordinator, Chief Felix Obuah, who led a high-powered enforcement team to the site on Monday, described the infractions as deliberate sabotage of the Federal Capital Territory’s planning regulations. He warned that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has zero tolerance for such abuses and is determined to restore order in the city.

“The developer clearly violated the approval granted by the Department of Development Control. He encroached on green areas and waterways, and we are here to enforce the law,” Obuah said while supervising the demolition exercise.

Obuah also revealed that a foreign firm had illegally taken over more green areas in Utako and vowed that AMMC will recover all encroached lands across the territory. He warned that any civil servant found to have colluded with developers in illegal allocations would be sanctioned in line with extant public service rules.

The Director of the Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, confirmed that the developer ignored multiple stop-work notices before AMMC moved in with enforcement. He said the department has ramped up monitoring to curb similar infractions across the city.

In a show of remorse, Kadiri Ogbaidi admitted to the violations and pleaded for two weeks to remove all illegal structures at his own cost.

“There have been many infractions here, mostly from our subscribers, but we take responsibility. We will remove every structure and revert to the original approval,” he said.

AMMC granted the request but warned that enforcement would resume if the illegal structures are not cleared within the grace period.

FG Deploys Diplomacy as Mining Marshals Peacefully Dislodge Illegal Tin Miners in Kaduna

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***Alake says Damau operation is a blueprint for tackling illegal mining across Nigeria

In a major breakthrough, the Federal Government has successfully reclaimed a tin-rich mining site in Damau, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State from illegal operators—without firing a shot.

Rather than confront the illegal miners with force, the Mining Marshals—under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development—adopted a strategy rooted in dialogue, diplomacy, and community engagement. The site, legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited, had been under illegal occupation for months, causing environmental damage, economic loss, and growing insecurity in the area.

Through consultations with traditional leaders and local stakeholders, the Marshals secured community backing, leading to the peaceful evacuation of the illegal miners under official supervision.

A respected community elder described the intervention as timely and effective. “This peaceful approach is commendable. The illegal miners posed a serious threat to lives and property. Their exit brings relief to our people,” he said.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who spoke during the one-year anniversary of the Mining Marshals, praised the operatives for their professionalism and results-driven approach.

“This is a clear demonstration of smart enforcement. The reward for hard work is more work,” the minister stated, pledging additional resources and operational support to the Marshals.

Dr. Alake noted that while Nigeria has witnessed violent clashes during past anti-illegal mining operations, the Damau case offers a compelling alternative. “If replicated across the country, this model—built on community buy-in and cooperation—could become our blueprint for sustainable enforcement,” he said.

He urged communities nationwide to support the government’s efforts to eliminate illegal mining, which he described as a major threat to national development and investor confidence.

“Illegal mining and insecurity remain the biggest obstacles to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. The Kaduna success story shows what’s possible when we work together,” Dr. Alake added.

The peaceful outcome in Damau stands in contrast to the often-violent confrontations that have marred similar operations in the past, offering new hope for reforming the mining sector through a balanced mix of law enforcement and community trust.

President Bola Tinubu Visit Troops Of OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

…The fight you are waging here in Katsina and across the country is not just a battle for territory; it is a battle for the soul of Nigeria- PBAT…

In a rare and unprecedented state visit, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, visited the frontline troops of OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA in Katsina State. The visit aimed to assess the security situation and have direct first hand knowledge of operations of the troops without the accompaniment of a high military entourage.

Amid ongoing security challenges in the region, the President’s visit served to boost morale and reaffirm the government’s commitment to the welfare of the troops. He commended their unwavering dedication to their mission and urged them to remain resolute in the fight against terrorism and other security threats.

This was contained in a statement signed by Patience Ituke, For: Director, Information and Public Relations

“The fight you are waging here in Katsina and across the country is not just a battle for territory; it is a battle for the soul of Nigeria. Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you today, tomorrow, and always. Stay strong. Stay focused,” he stated.

President Tinubu emphasized the significance of his personal visit, stating that it underscores the urgent need to bring an end to the ongoing conflict. “My gallant officers, brave soldiers, and defenders of our great nation, I stand before you today not just as your President and Commander-in-Chief, but as a fellow patriot, deeply humbled by your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the peace, security, and sovereignty of our great nation.”

He further articulated that the hopes of Nigeria are deeply rooted in the efforts of the military in combating insecurity. “You are the shield of Nigeria, the brave sons and daughters who stand between our people and the forces of terror. Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralize, and every community you secure is a victory for justice, freedom, and the future of our children. Your resilience in the face of danger inspires the entire nation, and your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.”

The President acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by the soldiers, stating, “You have left behind your families and the comforts of civilian life to wear the uniform of honor and duty. You face danger not for wealth or recognition, but for the love of our dear country. That, my brothers and sisters in uniform, is the highest form of patriotism. You are the silent guardians of our democracy, and I salute you.”

He assured the troops of the Federal Government’s unwavering support, saying, “As your Commander-in-Chief, I am fully aware of the challenges you face. We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced technology, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support to not only defend this nation but to dominate and defeat every adversary. Your welfare is my top priority. We are committed to ensuring your families are safe, your allowances are paid promptly, your healthcare is guaranteed, and your dignity upheld. Housing programs, family support systems, insurance coverage, and improved remuneration are being implemented without delay.”

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the troops, stating, “This war will not be won by weapons alone but by your will to stand, resist, fight, and triumph. To those who seek to destabilize our nation be they domestic collaborators or foreign agents hear this: Nigeria will not bow. Not to fear. Not to terror. Not to treachery. You, the Nigerian military, are the spearhead of this fight. With your valor and discipline, peace shall prevail. Stand tall. Be proud. Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you today, tomorrow, and always. Stay strong. Stay focused.”

FG Endorses ₦1Bn Youth-Driven Health Competition to Combat Malaria in Nigeria

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

In a strategic push to tackle Nigeria’s malaria burden, the Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the Geneith National Health Competition, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at mobilizing Nigerian youth to fight malaria through education, advocacy, and innovation.

Unveiled on Friday in Abuja, the programme is a collaborative effort between Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd and CEOAfrica, with prizes worth approximately ₦1 billion—including ₦400 million in cash and ₦600 million in gift items—targeted at students across junior and senior secondary schools as well as tertiary institutions.

Speaking on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Director of Public Health, Dr. Godwin Ntadom, described the competition as a “timely and strategic intervention.”

> “While nations like Belgium, Britain, and the U.S. eliminated malaria decades ago, Nigeria continues to suffer. It’s time we moved from rhetoric to results,” Ntadom declared.

He highlighted that malaria in Nigeria is not just a medical challenge but also rooted in environmental and socioeconomic conditions such as poor drainage, overcrowding, and low public awareness.

> “This initiative aligns with the national strategy by engaging youth as change agents. Their influence in homes and communities can spark long-lasting transformation,” he added.

Declaring the competition open, Ntadom applauded Geneith Pharmaceuticals for leveraging private-sector innovation to solve public health crises.

Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals, Mr. Umenwa Emmanuel, emphasized the competition as more than a CSR project—it is a call to reengineer malaria solutions from the ground up.

> “This isn’t another event—it’s a national wake-up call. Nigeria accounted for 66.7 million malaria cases and over 189,000 deaths in 2022 alone. These numbers demand emergency-level response,” he stated.

He urged the youth to embrace the 2024 theme—“Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite, and Stay Committed”—as a launchpad for tech-driven, locally rooted solutions.

Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Pharm. (Mrs.) Wosilat O. Giwa, praised the campaign as a movement rather than a mere programme.

> “Nigeria, the DRC, and Niger bear more than half of global malaria deaths. But we are not powerless. Empowered youth and modern tools like vaccines and treated nets can shift this narrative,” she asserted.

Former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, called for stronger backing of local pharmaceutical production as part of sustainable malaria response strategies.

Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, CEO of CEOAfrica and team lead for the initiative, called the programme a “historic milestone” in youth-led health mobilisation.

> “With over ₦600 million in support, this is Africa’s largest health competition. We’re training students to become malaria ambassadors who can lead change from classrooms to communities,” he said.

Representing over 40 million Nigerian students, Amb. Comrade Egunjobi Samuel Oluwaseyi pledged full student support for the campaign.

> “This is not just a malaria programme; it is a life-saving mission. Nigerian students are behind it 100%. The future of this fight lies in our hands,” he affirmed.

With firm support from government, professional bodies, the pharmaceutical industry, and student leaders, the Geneith National Health Competition marks a bold new chapter in Nigeria’s war against malaria—one led by its youth and powered by innovation, advocacy, and national unity.

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