News Agency of Nigeria
World must learn from WWII, says Chinese scholar  

World must learn from WWII, says Chinese scholar  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Busayo Onijala

Mr Zheng Haizhen, an international relations expert, says the world remains far from tranquil and humanity must continue to draw lessons and experiences from history.

 

 

 

Zheng is an Assistant Researcher at the Department for Global Governance and International Organisation Studies under the China Institute of International Studies.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 2025 marks 80 years since World War II ended and the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance.

 

 

 

The anniversary also coincides with 80 years since the founding of the United Nations, a milestone Chinese officials say reflects global commitment to peace and shared development.

 

 

 

To commemorate the anniversary, China has organised documentaries and events, including a military parade scheduled for Sept. 3 in Beijing.

 

 

 

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 26 foreign heads of state and government will attend China’s Victory Day commemorations.

 

 

 

Speaking to NAN, Zheng said the victory against fascism revealed the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity.

 

 

 

He explained that this concept, when applied to international relations, means the stability and development of each country are directly connected and mutually conditional with others.

 

 

 

This, he said, forms the basis for overall and symbiotic development among nations.

 

 

 

Zheng stressed that post-war experiences show that international imbalances and conflicts once thought irreconcilable can be resolved through development, fairness, justice, and policy adjustments.

 

 

 

Highlighting current challenges such as conflicts, regional tensions, and economic disparities, he called for renewed cooperation rooted in the UN Charter, fairness, and mutual respect.

 

 

 

“At present, only by transcending differences, strengthening solidarity, and shouldering shared responsibilities, can humanity find the only viable path forward,” Zheng said.

 

 

 

He described war as a mirror that helps people appreciate the value of peace.

 

 

 

According to him, the war against fascism eight decades ago was not only a defining 20th century moment but also a global struggle involving over 80 nations.

 

 

 

“The Chinese people, together with others worldwide, ultimately defeated fascism, achieving victory of justice over evil, and light over darkness,” Zheng said.

 

 

 

He acknowledged the roles of allied nations, including the Soviet Union, American volunteer forces, and international fighters from Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond.

 

 

 

“The victory was not only a triumph for China but also for the world, showcasing solidarity against shared threats,” he added.

 

 

 

Zheng urged countries to safeguard the hard-won peace achieved after World War II and to reject unilateralism and hegemonic actions undermining global stability. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited Kamal Tayo Oropo

Prioritise good relationships with God, citizens, Baptist seminary urges clergies 

Prioritise good relationships with God, citizens, Baptist seminary urges clergies 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Olatunde Ajayi

 

 

The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary (NBTS), Ogbomoso, has urged gospel ministers to prioritise building good relationships with God, family members, and other people around them.

 

NBTS President, Prof. Stephen Ayankeye, said this on Monday in Ogbomoso during a news conference on the forthcoming 2025 NBTS Ministers’ Conference, scheduled to hold from Sept. 8 to Sept. 11.

 

Ayankeye said that the theme of the conference is; “The Gospel Minister and His Relationships”.

 

He said the theme of the conferene was apt particularly in view of the current situation in Nigeria where some gospel ministers were found to be deficient in their relationship with God, family members, and ministerial colleagues.

 

The NBTS President said that the resultant effect of the situation has been the rising tension in intra-personal, interpersonal and human -divine relationships being witnessed in the society.

 

He further stated that the theme of the gathering shall be examined from various perspectives with the hope of enhancing peaceful co-existence in the home and society, which is a major part of the mission of the Seminary.

 

According to him, the conference will help gospel ministers to be further equipped and reinvigorated for Godly living and effective ministries.

 

Ayankeye said the conference, embedded with continuing education programme, would help to update the academic and professional knowledge of gospel ministers.

 

This, he said, would also sharpen their ministerial skills and provide them the opportunities for fellowship as well as denominational promotion.

 

“It is the responsibility of all and sundry to participate in the transformation of the society.

 

“This will be possible and faster if the gospel, which is God’s power unto salvation, is handled by vessels well molded,” he said.

 

Ayankeye urged political office holders and others in government to be more intentional in ensuring restoration of economic, social and educational vibrancy in Nigeria.

 

He suggested that more efforts should also be directed to ensuring security of life and property so that residents in Nigeria would experience a conducive atmosphere to face their work with peace of mind.

 

“The citizenry should also be law abiding and pray for our leaders regularly. Time has come when everyone should work hard to restore the glory of our nation, Nigeria,” he said.

 

Ayankeye also said that the conference, which would be held at NBTS Alumni Multipurpose Hall, would feature key programme personnel.

 

“We are expecting Reverend Israel Akanji, who doubles as the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention and Visitor to the Seminary; Rev. Dickson Madogwe, immediate past Vice President (ministerial) Nigerian Baptist Convention among others.

 

“We look forward to the active participation of all categories of gospel ministers: church pastors, specialised ministers on music, education, children and youths as well as evangelists and missionaries.

 

“Adequate security arrangements have been made to ensure safety of lives and properties of all conference participants, “the NBTS president said. (NAN) (www.namews.ng)

 

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Edo public grammar school wins South-South stem robotics challenge

Edo public grammar school wins South-South stem robotics challenge

By Edeki Igafe

Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo in Edo, has emerged winner of a 16-week STEM training programme on robotics, defeating eight other secondary schools at the grand finale held in Effurun, Delta.

The programme, with the  theme: “Robotics for a Sustainable and Inclusive Skilled Economy”, was organised for selected schools across Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.

It was facilitated by Contego Servo, Odyssey Educational Foundation, and Phoenix Girls Tech Foundation, and sponsored by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

Chieg Executive Officer of Phoenix Girls and Tech Foundation, Dr Elizabeth Eterigho, emphasised that robotics was not just a learning tool but a gateway to innovation and critical thinking, essential for the 21st-century workforce.

The training aimed to empower students with hands-on experience in robotics, while encouraging creativity and technical problem-solving.

“Over the past four months, we have embarked on an inspiring journey of discovery, innovation, and empowerment.
“Teachers and students from various secondary schools have come together not only to learn the fundamentals of robotics, programming, and applied STEM, but to envision a future where knowledge translates into skills, and skills translate into solutions.
“The projects and prototypes they will showcase today are not just exercises in robotics; they are expressions of creativity, teamwork, and determination that reflect the power of STEM education
in shaping lives and societies,” she said.
Eterigho said that the programme had proved that when given the opportunity, “our young people can dream, design, and deliver solutions that matter”.
Eterigho commended the sole-sponsor of the programme, NCDMB, saying that together, “we are laying the foundation
for an economy that values skills, sustainability and inclusiveness.”
Also, representatives of the NCDMB, Mr Weyinmi Ebiyon, said that the programme was designed to enhance quality of education in the country.
Ebiyon, on behalf of the board, commended the resource persons and trainers, and urged the trainees to put into proper use, the knowledge acquired from the training.
On her part, Mrs Rose Ezewu, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in Delta, commended the NCDMB and the facilitators for putting the training together.
She assured that the state government would key into the programme to elevate the knowledge of students in the state in areas of STEM Robotic education.
NAN reports that Iwere Secondary School, Koko in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta, came second while Nana Model College, Warri, in Warri South Local Government Area took the third position.
Other schools with representatives were: Community Secondary School, Kalio-Ama Okrika and Community Secondary School, Rumuoro Ogbakiri Emuoha, both in Rivers.
They also included Ajoki Secondary School, Ajoki, in Edo, Okotie Eboh Grammar School, Sapele in Delta, CSS Okutukutu/Etegwe and Epie National High School Kpansia, Yenagoa, in Bayelsa.
Speaking on the sideline, Mr Okoh Isaac, teacher from Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo,  expressed gratitude to God for the victory.
Isaac commended the organisers and sponsor of the programme, while he urged government to invest more in technology.
Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
FG to unveil National Industrial Policy roadmap at West Africa IMT

FG to unveil National Industrial Policy roadmap at West Africa IMT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Olawunmi Ashafa

 

 

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has announced plans to present strategies for the implementation of Nigeria’s new National Industrial Policy at the West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing & Trade (West Africa IMT) Summit and Exhibition 2025.

 

 

 

The summit, organised by dmg Nigeria Events, will run from Oct. 21 to Oct. 23 at the Landmark Centre, Lagos.

 

 

 

It is expected to attract government officials, industry leaders, manufacturers, investors, and policymakers across the region for dialogue on accelerating industrial growth and strengthening trade integration in West Africa.

 

 

 

Speaking at a news conference in Lagos to unveil the agenda, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Owan Enoh, described the summit as a turning point for Africa’s industrial future.

 

 

 

“The West Africa IMT is not just a gathering, it is a platform to accelerate Africa’s march toward true industrialisation.

 

 

 

“For too long, our growth has been tied to raw material exports. The time has come to unlock the full potential of our industries, scale our MSMEs, and harness our abundant manufacturing resources,” Enoh said.

 

 

 

He emphasised that industrialisation remained central to job creation, skills development, and long-term prosperity, stressing that the Ministry was fully committed to ensuring the success of the summit.

 

 

 

The news conference also highlighted the critical themes for discussion, including regional trade integration under the AfCFTA, infrastructure development, access to finance, and technology adoption to boost manufacturing competitiveness.

 

 

 

Ms Wemimo Oyelana, Country Director for dmg Nigeria Events, said that the summit would provide a collaborative platform for the industrial ecosystem to build solutions, not just ideas.

 

 

 

“We are at a defining moment where the choices we make around manufacturing and technology will shape West Africa’s growth story for generations.

 

 

 

“This summit is about accelerating an industrial revolution that is sustainable, inclusive, and impactful,” Oyelana said.

 

 

 

The theme of the 2025 edition, “Accelerating West Africa’s Sustainable Industrial Revolution for Economic Prosperity”, will bring together stakeholders from energy, finance, infrastructure, logistics, technology, and trade to create actionable roadmaps for industrial transformation.

 

 

 

By convening diverse voices and fostering partnerships, West Africa IMT 2025 aims to position the region as a global hub for sustainable manufacturing and trade-driven growth. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Nigeria ready to lead, not just consume technology – Indigenous firm

Nigeria ready to lead, not just consume technology – Indigenous firm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Christiana Fadare

 

An indigenous technology company, Arigo Technologies, says Nigeria and Africa have all it takes to become creators and leaders in the digital economy, not just consumers of foreign technology.

 

Dr Arinze Madueke, Founder of Arigo Technologies, made the statement during the simultaneous launch of seven distinct, multisector digital platforms by the company at an event, in Lagos on Saturday.

 

Madueke said the platforms were designed to address Africa’s unique challenges and prove that the continent could be positioned as a leader in global technology innovation and digital transformation.

 

“We are not just building apps; we are building solutions that create jobs, empower entrepreneurs, connect talents, and demonstrate that Africa can lead the world in innovation,” he stated.

 

He commended the Federal Government’s current efforts in supporting the tech ecosystem but called for more involvement in technology events for improved visibility, support, and encouragement for industry players.

 

Madueke also urged the government to provide a more enabling environment, including infrastructure and policy frameworks, to help innovators and startups thrive in the evolving technology-driven economy.

 

“I am delighted to have all of you here today in this epoch-making moment. You are part of history as we showcase years of research, innovation, and sacrifice,” he said.

 

He said that the platforms were developed over five years within the Arigo Innovation Lab, involving intense testing, intellectual property, unquantifiable investment, and personal sacrifice from the founding team.

 

“Some of the platforms stem from personal experience. For instance, CribsAndRides was born after I was scammed by a supposed land agent shortly after returning to Nigeria from abroad.

 

“Also, FutbolConect came from my journey as a football club owner.

 

“It addresses gaps in talent discovery, transfer processes, and agent reliability in the global football ecosystem,” Madueke added.

 

He encouraged Nigerian startups and tech enthusiasts to keep innovating, noting that Arigo’s innovation hub was opened to support entrepreneurs with ideas linked to technology and digital solutions.

 

Speaking at the event, sports journalist Mr Ralph George, revealed that FutbolConect had already onboarded more than 800 football clubs globally since its initial soft launch earlier in the year.

 

George noted that more than 35,000 players had registered on the app, with a total transfer value of 1.2 billion naira already executed through deals made via the platform and website.

 

He disclosed that more than 180,000 people had visited the site across various countries, made possible by an earlier launch of the platform in London on May 30, 2025.

 

“This platform helps bridge the gap where players, clubs, agents, and managers fall victim to fraud.

 

“Nigerian clubs spend millions bringing agents who often disappoint,” George said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event showcased Arigo’s flagship platforms, including MyArigo.com, a business marketplace and professional networking platform for African entrepreneurs and professionals.

 

Other platforms launched include FutbolConect.com (a global football talent hub), Miamour.me (a marriage and therapy platform), and CribsAndRides.com (a luxury real estate and auto marketplace).

 

Also launched were Ijeuwa.com (a storytelling and reward platform), EduGlobal.international (a blockchain-secured edtech portal), and Twy.app (an Agentic AI-powered brand for personal and business productivity).

 

The event attracted representatives from government agencies, financial institutions, universities, investors, FIFA-licensed football agents, and prominent figures from Nigeria’s entertainment and technology industries. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Legacy: Ecobank celebrates icons of Nigerian art

Legacy: Ecobank celebrates icons of Nigerian art

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

Ecobank Nigeria says it is deepening its commitment to cultural development with the hosting of an art exhibition that celebrates the creativity and legacies of Nigeria’s most revered artists.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the exhibition, titled “Enduring Legacy: A Collector’s Tribute to Masters”, which began on Saturday will run for three weeks at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos.

 

 

 

Speaking on the initiative, Mrs Omoboye Odu, Head of SMEs, Ecobank Nigeria, said the project reflects the bank’s dedication to supporting African creativity and heritage while empowering the creative economy.

 

 

 

“This exhibition is more than an event; it is a love project. It demonstrates Ecobank’s role not just as a financial institution but as a patron of African art and cultural excellence,” Odu said.

 

 

 

She noted that the exhibition, organised in partnership with Artcada Gallery, Krabhouse Gallery, and EPAC Studios, would feature works by masters such as Bruce Onobrakpeya, Kolade Oshinowo, Jimoh Buraimoh, Muraina Oyelami, and Moses Umukoro.

 

 

 

According to her, the bank’s cultural initiatives align with its corporate social responsibility focus on economic empowerment and cultural preservation.

 

 

 

“We have consistently promoted Nigerian creativity through past events such as Achebe in Lagos, the +234 Art Fair, and Oja Oge, which spotlighted young artists, fashion designers, and SMEs.

 

 

 

“This exhibition continues that journey of projecting Nigeria’s talents to the world,” she added.

 

 

 

Odu explained that more than 700 works of art would be displayed, offering art lovers, collectors, scholars, and cultural custodians an opportunity to experience Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage.

 

 

 

The curator of the exhibition, Adekepemi Aderemi of Artcada Gallery, described the showcase as a tribute to Nigeria’s revered masters whose works had preserved the nation’s heritage across generations.

 

 

 

She said the exhibition features rare pieces from a private archive of nearly 30,000 works, some dating back to 1864, highlighting the evolution of Nigerian modern and contemporary art.

 

 

 

Aderemi commended the bank for supporting cultural preservation, stressing that the initiative reinforces art’s value as both an economic driver and a custodian of identity.

 

 

 

The Chief Executive Officer of Krabhouse Gallery, Andrew Ine, said Nigerian art remains significantly undervalued despite its global potential.

 

 

 

He noted that the sector could conservatively be worth 30 per cent of the 62 billion dollar African art market if given proper visibility.

 

 

 

He stressed that exhibitions and cultural events were crucial to unlocking that value.

 

 

 

“In other countries, people take time off just to enjoy exhibitions because it brings spiritual fulfillment.

 

 

 

“That is where we are headed in Nigeria, a cultural awakening about the value of art,” Ine said.

 

 

 

According to him, the proliferation of new galleries in Lagos reflects a growing appreciation of art as both a cultural and economic asset.

 

 

 

He added that passion for art must be balanced with economic realities, noting that building the Nigerian art economy requires resilience, vision, and partnerships that sustain artists and their families. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Insurance brokers council pledges support for fintech adoption, financial inclusion

Insurance brokers council pledges support for fintech adoption, financial inclusion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

The Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) has expressed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote fintech adoption and financial inclusion in the country.

 

 

 

Mr Babatunde Oguntade, President of the council, said this during the second Business Journal Fintech and Financial Inclusion Roundtable on Friday in Lagos.

 

 

 

Oguntade was represented by Mrs Bukola Ifemade, former Chairman, Lagos Area Committee, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers.

 

 

 

He said fintech presented vast opportunities for the growth of Nigeria’s financial sector, especially in expanding access to insurance services.

 

 

 

He described the theme of the conference, “Fintech and Financial Inclusion: The Opportunity and Challenges for Nigeria”, as timely and relevant, given the rapidly changing financial landscape.

 

 

 

“As industry stakeholders, we are committed to working together to address the challenges and opportunities presented by fintech and financial inclusion.

 

 

 

“We believe that collaboration and innovation are key to unlocking new opportunities and addressing the challenges that lie ahead.

 

 

 

“The insurance industry plays a vital role in promoting financial stability and security, and we look forward to working with other stakeholders to drive growth, inclusion, and innovation.

 

 

 

“On the part of Insurance Brokers, our council is ready to collaborate and encourage all initiative toward encouraging fintech in insurance operations. We see it as an enabler of our practice,” he said.

 

 

 

Commenting on the recently signed Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025 (NIIRA 2025), Oguntade described it as a significant milestone that would create a more conducive environment for industry players.

 

 

 

“This Act promises to promote a more conducive business environment for insurance professionals and the industry at large.

 

 

 

“With its emphasis on digitisation, compulsory coverage, and strict enforcement of claims settlement timelines, the NIIRA 2025 is poised to drive innovation, expand access to insurance services, and enhance consumer protection.

 

 

 

“However, as we leverage fintech to drive growth and inclusion, we must also prioritise data protection and cybersecurity,” he said.

 

 

 

He commended the Nigeria Data Protection Commission for enforcing compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023.

 

 

 

He assured Nigerians of insurance brokers commitment to safeguarding customers’ sensitive information.

 

 

 

“We believe collaboration and innovation are key to unlocking new opportunities. On the part of insurance brokers, our council is ready to collaborate and encourage all initiatives that integrate fintech into insurance operations,” he said.

 

 

 

He urged stakeholders to work together to deepen financial stability and inclusion.

 

 

 

Speaking earlier, Dr Biodun Adedipe, Chief Consultant, B. Adedipe & Associates Ltd. advised policymakers to prioritise clarity, digital identity systems, and regulatory sandboxes to accelerate fintech growth and financial inclusion in Nigeria.

 

 

 

He noted that clear and consistent policies were necessary to provide certainty for investors and operators in the financial technology space.

 

 

 

According to him, the development of a robust national digital identity framework will serve as the backbone for inclusion, enabling seamless verification and access to financial services.

 

 

 

Adedipe also advised fintechs to build their operations on trust, transparency, and affordability to deepen financial inclusion and sustain public confidence.

 

 

 

“Banks are advised to embrace collaboration and adopt hybrid models to remain competitive in the evolving financial ecosystem.

 

 

 

“Likewise, investors are suppose to support financial literacy, empower women, and promote rural finance as pathways to inclusive growth,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Organisation seeks stronger laws, grassroots education to improve safety

Organisation seeks stronger laws, grassroots education to improve safety

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

Improving safety in Nigeria requires leadership commitment, stronger laws, grassroots education and collaboration among governments, the private sector, academia and professional bodies, the World Safety Organisation (WSO) has said.

Dr Soji Olalokun, Country Director of WSO Nigeria and Executive Director of SafERR Networks, said this in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

He said that Nigeria still faced major challenges in safety practices, especially lack of awareness and a reactive culture toward safety.

“Our concern is that safety is still treated as a box-ticking exercise rather than a way of life.

“Many accidents we see are avoidable if there is awareness, training and strong enforcement of safety rules,” Olalokun said.

He said that WSO would host the eighth edition of its International Conference and World Safety Awards (WoSAwards) on Sept. 11 and  Sept. 12 in Ikeja in an effort to promote safety practices.

Olalokun said that the conference would have the theme: “PROGRESS: Promoting Resilient Occupational, Governance, Risk Management, and Environmental Safety Standards”.

He said that more than 2,000 safety, security, health  and environment professionals, policymakers, regulators, academics and industry leaders across the world were being expected to participate in the event.

He said that the conference would feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, technical paper presentations and investiture of SafERR Global Ambassadors, as well as induction of new members into the SafERR Global Institute.

According to him, a major highlight will be the WoSAwards Gala Night, where more than 32 corporate organisations and 31 individuals would be honoured for their contributions to advancing safety, security, health, environment and sustainability.

He said that participants would benefit from free training on emergency response.

Olalokun described the conference as a platform to educate, recognise and empower.

“It is not just another conference. It is a movement for change. We want to create heroes out of safety champions, equip Nigerians with life-saving skills, and promote a new culture where safety becomes natural for everyone,” he said.

He said that the impact would be both immediate and long-term, as participants would gain hands-on knowledge to save lives, while industries and communities would benefit from improved safety practices.

“A safer Nigeria is a more productive and economically-viable Nigeria.

“Reduced accidents mean less downtime, lower healthcare costs and a more attractive environment for investors,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Holyman urges Nigerians to seek reggae for spiritual guidance, solutions

Holyman urges Nigerians to seek reggae for spiritual guidance, solutions

 

 

By Joan Odafe

Rastafarian artiste, Bob Holyman, has called on Nigerians to embrace reggae music as a source of spiritual guidance and solutions to the country’s challenges.

 

Holyman made the call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.

 

The reggae artiste, who described his music as spiritual, and flowing from an innate connection with God, said the link sets him apart from those who merely adopt Rastafarianism as a lifestyle.

 

“My music serves as a platform to share messages and insights, guided by the spirit of God.

 

“This connection empowers me to stay truthful and authentic in my words and actions,” he said.

 

Holyman said his song, ‘Where We Dey Go’, released in 2024, reflects his concern over post-election experiences in Nigeria.

 

According to him, politicians often prioritise the poor during campaigns but abandon them after assuming office, which triggers a cycle of poverty and suffering.

 

The musician said he asks God in his daily prayers to raise leaders who will empathise with the masses and work to ease their struggles.

 

Citing late global legends such as Bob Marley and Lucky Dube, he said reggae songs were used to preach unity, redemption and address social issues.

 

Holyman also highlighted Nigerian pioneer reggae artistes, including Majek Fashek and Ras Kimono, who blended reggae with African influences while advocating cultural identity and social change.

 

“Reggae offers spiritual guidance and solutions to our nation’s problems.

 

“By embracing these messages, we can foster positive change and unity in our society,” he said.

 

He urged Nigerians to listen more closely to reggae music because of its timeless spiritual messages. (NAN)(www nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

 

 

Community pharmacists, Police collaborate on health outreaches

Community pharmacists, Police collaborate on health outreaches

By Kemi Akintokun

Community pharmacists in Lagos State, under the aegis of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), have partnered with the Nigerian Police Force to enhance public health and safety.

In a statement signed by Mr Tolu Ajayi, ACPN Lagos Chairman, the collaboration highlighted pharmacists’ dual role as healthcare providers and public safety allies.

As part of the 2025 Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Lagos Scientific Week, the ACPN paid advocacy visits to the Assistant Inspector General at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and the Lagos State Police Command.

The health outreaches themed “Partnership with the Nigeria Police Force for Equitable Access to Healthcare Towards Universal Health Coverage” were simultaneously held across 30 police formations in the state.

The activities included health education, free medical screening for officers, distribution of essential medicines, product samples, and first aid supplies.

“Together, community pharmacists and the police can create a frontline that fights illegalities, builds trust, and promotes public health and safety,” Ajayi stated.

He emphasised that community pharmacists were not only committed to rational medication use but were also well-positioned to support crime prevention through intelligence on drug abuse and trafficking.

“Beyond dispensing medicines, we provide counselling, monitor treatment outcomes, support adherence, and make timely referrals.

“We also play a vital role in rehabilitating individuals battling drug addiction and promoting disease prevention and wellness,” Ajayi added.(NAN)(nannews,ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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