News Agency of Nigeria
Foundation seeks awareness on Cushing’s Syndrome
Health

Foundation seeks awareness on Cushing’s Syndrome

509 total views today

By Fortune Abang

The Aisha Adamu Fari Foundation has emphasised the need for increased investment in raising awareness about early detection and treatment of Cushing’s Syndrome to contain the disease.

The Foundation’s CEO, Ms Aisha Fari, said this during the inaugural ‘Walk Against Cushing’s Syndrome’, organised with support from ASPI, ABVIG and other partners in Abuja.

Fari, a public health expert and Cushing’s Syndrome survivor, urged the Federal Government to prioritise research into diagnosing rare diseases such as Cushing’s Syndrome to deepen understanding.

She described Cushing’s Syndrome as a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels, often due to medication, tumours, or chronic emotional stress.

According to her, few people are aware of Cushing’s Syndrome, hence the importance of promoting early detection and prevention across the country.

Fari said, “Poor awareness makes diagnosis difficult, as advocacy is limited and even doctors frequently misdiagnose the condition.

“There’s a need to support individuals with Cushing’s Syndrome and other rare diseases. People are suffering in silence. We need government backing in research and treatment.”

She recounted her experience, stating a misdiagnosis caused life-threatening symptoms and emotional strain in managing the unfamiliar condition.

Fari highlighted symptoms such as high blood pressure, dizziness, and weakness, adding that loud sounds triggered anxiety and affected her mental wellbeing.

In a separate interview, Fari’s mother, Mrs Safiya Koko, said treating the illness was financially challenging for the family.

She explained the family turned to online research to identify and understand Cushing’s Syndrome, as most doctors were unfamiliar with the condition.

“We relied on internet searches because doctors couldn’t diagnose it, until we eventually met an endocrinologist who helped us understand the situation,” she said.

She appealed to the government to increase awareness of this rare disease, which many — including doctors — find difficult to diagnose.

“We need government support to ensure this disease becomes well-known, not only in Nigeria but internationally,” she added.

She also recommended a strict diet rich in protein, magnesium, and calcium as part of managing Cushing’s Syndrome. (NAN) Read More

Speaker, minister hail military, police officers’ wives on contribution to education
Defence/Security

Speaker, minister hail military, police officers’ wives on contribution to education

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru, have commended the wives of military and police officers for their commitment to promoting quality education in the country.

They gave the commendation during the Groundbreaking and Fundraising Ceremony of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA) College, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The speaker, who was represented by the Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, said there could be no better way to contribute to build the future of a teaming young Nigerians than investing in education.

He commended the leadership of DEPOWA for considering education as a priority and resolve to channel their energy towards building a school for the children of officers and personnel of the defence sector.

Abbas said it was also gratifying to note that efforts were geared towards supporting the children whose parents had dedicated their lives to the security of lives and property of the citizens.

According to him, providing access to good education is a legacy that endures for life.

“Today, DEPOWA has started a journey that will change and transform the lives of so many children.

“It is easy for those watching this ceremony to interrogate the project on the proposition that there are so many schools out there. So, why should DEPOWA embark on building new schools?

“The statistics of children in Nigeria age between five to 14 not registered in school are about 10.5 million.

“This indicates that the number of schools available to Nigerian children is still far less than the number required to go to school, including the children of the personnel of the security agencies.

“The school as proposed by DEPOWA is very elaborate and comprehensive. It is exciting that the designers have made provision for facilities that will enhance the total development of children in this school,” he said.

The speaker said the vision behind the development of the school underscored the goals of the legislative agenda of the 10th House of Representatives.

This, according to him, captures the need for access to education for the Nigerian child.

“We hold a view in the house that education is a priority, and we fully support this school project by DEPOWA,” he said.

The Minister of Defence, Badaru said the initiative embodies the unwavering commitment of the military and police families to nation-building.

He commended the association for its visionary leadership in championing the noble cause, adding that the college would serve as the beacon of hope, excellence, and opportunity for the children of the brave service members.

The minister said the college would alleviate educational burden while fostering academic excellence and moral integrity among students.

He called on all stakeholders, government agencies, corporate organisations, and public individuals to contribute generously to the project.

“A well-educated generation, nurtured in an environment of discipline and patriotism, is critical to sustaining peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.

“The Ministry of Defence stands in solidarity with the power and pledges full support to ensure the timely completion of this project,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

PDP picks Ezenwafor for Anambra governorship poll
Politics

PDP picks Ezenwafor for Anambra governorship poll

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By Chimezie Anaso

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday nominated Mr Jude Ezenwafor as its candidate for the Nov. 8 governorship election in Anambra.

Dr Cornell Onwubuya, Chairman of the Anambra Governorship Election Congress Committee, said Ezenwafor was the sole aspirant and secured 798 ‘yes’ votes.

He added that 26 votes were declared invalid, while 853 delegates were accredited out of 999 listed for the congress.

The congress took place at the Women’s Development Centre, Awka.

Onwubuya said the process followed the PDP constitution and electoral guidelines.

“By the power vested in me and in line with PDP rules, I hereby declare Jude Ezenwafor our candidate,” he stated.

In his remarks, Ezenwafor said the PDP was on a rescue mission in Anambra and urged voters to support their bid to reclaim leadership.

He said he joined the race to return the PDP to the Anambra Government House.

“If you support me, the dream will come true. They say PDP is dead, but I will prove them wrong.

“All LGA and Ward Chairmen are now automatic coordinators in their areas. Our journey to Government House has begun,” he added.

Mr Chidi Chidebe, PDP Chairman in Anambra, said the party was heading into the election rejuvenated, united and strong.

He said Anambra regretted rejecting the PDP in the past and was ready to make amends.

According to him, many who left the PDP returned after discovering worse conditions in other parties.

Chidebe said PDP remains Nigeria’s most liberal party and had built the core governance structures in place today.

“We are the strongest party in Anambra. Only PDP can defeat the ruling party here. Let’s unite and make it happen,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG pledges employment for all community health officers nationwide
General News

FG pledges employment for all community health officers nationwide

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By Abujah Racheal

The Federal Government has pledged that no certified Community Health Officer (CHO) will remain unemployed, reaffirming its commitment to addressing the health disparities between urban and rural Nigeria.

The Coordinating Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, made the announcement on Tuesday during the 5th Induction and Oath-Taking Ceremony for new CHOs in Abuja.

Salako acknowledged the progress made in Nigeria’s healthcare system but noted that challenges such as workforce shortages, infrastructure gaps, and the uneven distribution of healthcare resources continued to impede advancement.

He, however, said that these issues were most acute in rural areas, where more than 60 per cent of Nigeria’s population resided.

“You are not just healthcare providers; you are the bridge between government policies and the realities of grassroots health,” he told the new inductees.

The minister highlighted their crucial role as the first line of defence in these communities, particularly in promoting preventive care and health education.

Salako also reiterated the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), which it viewed as a fundamental right for every Nigerian.

He said President Bola Tinubu-led federal government was actively implementing policies to achieve UHC, including the revitalisation of 10,000 Primary Healthcare Centers nationwide.

“The government’s policy is clear: no CHO should be unemployed,” Salako affirmed.

“We are dedicated to deploying and empowering community health workers to address healthcare needs, especially in underserved regions.”

He further discussed the National Health Insurance Authority, which aims to enrol 50 million Nigerians by 2027, stressing that CHOs would play a pivotal role in this initiative through grassroots mobilisation.

In addition to deployment efforts, the minister emphasised ongoing support for the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria, ensuring rigorous standards and continuous professional development for CHOs.

Salako urged the inductees to view their certification as a “national calling” and to serve with integrity, compassion, and innovation.

He also called on Nigerians to prioritise preventive healthcare and support the work of community health practitioners in their local communities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng) 

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

FG to generate over 0 bn annually from space regulation, licensing
Science & Tech

FG to generate over $200 bn annually from space regulation, licensing

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi
The Federal Government on Tuesday in Abuja said it could generate over 200 billion dollars annually from space regulation and licensing.
Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, said this at a one-day sensitisation and stakeholders’ engagement on the commencement of space regulation, spectrum management and licensing in Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised by the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
Nnaji said the workshop was a bold step towards building a fair competitive space industry that could contribute directly to Nigeria’s economic development and technological leadership.
“With this space regulation and licensing, companies such as Starlink, including DSTV who pay peanuts for using space products and short-changing Nigerians will be regulated and licenced.
“You can be assured that yearly, following the laid down strategies, we will be looking at realising over 200 billion dollars annually with increment yearly of 18 to 20 per cent,” Nnaji said.
He said that President Bola Tinubu had also approved the mainstreaming of space technology in revenue generation, especially in the oil and gas sector.
“This will ensure that any ship coming into this country, even when they switch off their ignition and glide-in without paying bunker fees and other payments, and then head out, space technology can detect their entry for necessary payments.
“So, we are looking at over 20 billion dollars yearly income through that and that is part of the many reforms that is coming under this regulation,” the minister said.
He added that space was no longer an exclusive domain of dreamers but for innovation and national security through satellites for communications, remote sensing, navigation and data systems.
According to him, space is now central to modern economies.
“Our task is to ensure a clear regulated ecosystem where both public and private players can thrive and a space sector that drives innovation, attracts investments and delivers real impact for our people,” he said.
Nnaji said the Federal Government, through the National Space Council, consisting of 15 members, was working and pushing the National Space Policy to include relevant areas as obtainable in modern space operations.
Dr Matthew Adepoju, Director-General of NASRDA, said the workshop was designed to find ways for the implementation of the 2015 regulations on licensing and supervision of space as enshrined in the agency’s Act of 2010.
Adepoju said that with the recent growth of the space sector that had seen increased number of satellites and more space-based assets, it was important for the sector to be regulated, commercialised to boost the economy.
“These regulations provide a comprehensive framework, ensures compliance with national and international space laws, promotes transparency in licensing processes, enhances security and safety in space operations.
“Space licensing and regulation can serve as a revenue-generating avenue for the Nigerian government,” Adepoju said.
He also said that by implementing a structured licensing system, the agency would ensure proper fees and charges for satellite launches, spectrum management, and data services in the country.
According to him, it will promote the commercialisation of space-related services and attract local and foreign investments into Nigeria’s space industry.
Mr Olisa Agbakoba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, while speaking on Space Regulation and Spectrum Management, said there was need to review the National Space Policy that was produced in 2000.
Agbakoba also said Nigeria needed to domesticate the key international space treaties that were ratified but were yet to be incorporated into the policy.
He recalled that global space economy had been projected to be one trillion dollars by 2030, adding that was paramount that Nigeria was left out of the windfall.
“We can capture a huge chunk of the market, but we need to have the right regulatory, legal and institutional frameworks in place right now.
“There are four or five important treaties that we need to domesticate because you may ratify, but if it is not passed by the National Assembly, it is not law.
“There is the Outer Space Treaty 1967 and we ratified it in 1967, Rescue Agreement, the Liability Convention and the Registration Convention of 1974 and the Moon Agreement,” he said.
The legal practitioner also called for the strengthening of the National Space Council, adding that implementation of the policy could be difficult without a viable council.
Dr Umar Bindir, Secretary to Adamawa State Government, while speaking on the imperative of space regulation in Nigeria, called for harmonised translation of scientific knowledge to practical solutions.
Bindir also said that regulatory frameworks should align with national development agendas thereby promoting innovation.
“We need to analyse all the historical and overlapping groups, particularly ministries, agencies and also the database of universities, polytechnic, college of educations.
“This will enable for filtering of their mandates for space related activities to co-ordinate efforts.
“You need to have a strategy for intense, proper promotion of space technology like having exhibitions every six months,” he said.
The highlights of the event were the unveiling of NASRDA’s new logo by Mrs Esuabana Nko-Asanye, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry.
There was also the delivery of studio equipment for Nigerian Science Technology and Innovation Television, domiciled in NASRDA. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Uche Anunne
NSA hands over 60 rescued kidnaped victims, warns against ransom payment
Defence/Security

NSA hands over 60 rescued kidnaped victims, warns against ransom payment

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has again handed over 60 kidnapped victims rescued by security agencies to their families and warned against ransom payment to kidnappers.

Ribadu said that paying ransom to kidnappers would only encourage them to continue in the crime, adding that it was also counterproductive.

He disclosed that even after ransom was paid by the families of many of the rescued victims, the kidnappers were still not ready to release the victims.

“Once again, we are here to do what we have done a couple of times already, that is, to handover rescued victims of kidnap and banditry to their families.

“Evil people turn our lives upside down. They are the victims. Many of them have been with them for a couple of months, but we thank God.

“Today, we are releasing 60, and hopefully that will be the final one from that part of Nigeria. Last week, we did about 50.

“I want to once again use the opportunity to thank our armed forces, our security forces, and indeed, the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, who is working daily to restore order, security, and stability.

“Daily, we are getting freedom back to our own people. We will continue to do so. We will not relent and we will not stop,” he said.

Ribadu assured that the military and security agencies would go after the criminals, adding that releasing the victims was not the end of the story.

According to him, we will make sure that justice is done. Anybody who is involved will never see peace.

“But I want to also use this opportunity to talk to our people to please, stop giving money to these people. It is one of the worst things that is happening.

“The families of many of these people, as you see them, gave monies to their abductors, but it did not lead to their release. It is we, the security forces, that still rescued them.

“I want to make a very strong appeal to all, it is understandable that when your person is in captivity, you will do whatever it takes for you to get him back. But this is counterproductive,” he said.

Earlier, the National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the 60 victims were rescued on Monday at about 1200hrs, by the 1 Division Nigerian Army troops supported by other security and intelligence agencies.

Laka said the victims were rescued mostly from Lere, Zangon Katar and Kagarko Local Government Areas of Kaduna State and FCT Abuja.

He said that the victims comprised of 35 males and 25 females, including a Deputy Director, from the National Assembly Commission, Adesanya Michael, kidnapped from Kubwa, FCT and Ishaya Kuka, a brother to Bishop Mathew Kukah.

According to him, they were kidnapped from their houses and farms within the above-mentioned locations.

“A preliminary investigation revealed that the victims were kidnapped by suspected armed bandits under the command of notorious bandit leaders, YELLOW ONE MILLION, YELLOW MAIDUNA, SHEHU REKEB and FARIN YELLOW.

“The victims were subjected to various inhumane treatments while at the camps.

“Subsequently, upon receiving the victims, ONSA provided them with all the necessary first aid assistance required to stabilise them for subsequent handing over to 1 Division for rehabilitation,” he said.

One of the rescued victims, Mr Adesanya Michael, thanked the security forces for ensuring their safe release from the kidnappers, whom he described as heartless.

He said their abductors treated them like animals without human feelings. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

FG, Katsina sign MoU to promote domestic tourism
Culture & Tourism

FG, Katsina sign MoU to promote domestic tourism

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By Abbas Bamalli

The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Katsina State to harness its unique cultural monuments, including the iconic Gobarau Minaret and Kusugu Well to promote domestic tourism.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Katsina on Tuesday, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Hannatu Musawa, emphasised that the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, the partnership was aimed at building proper structures to add value to Nigeria’s rich cultural identity, in a move to revitalise Nigeria’s cultural heritage and boost domestic tourism.

She stressed the need to prioritise cultural identities of the people, values, and heritage.

Musawa said: “Katsina is blessed with unique monuments and cultural assets that can serve not only as tourist attractions but also as tools to empower our youth and foster economic growth.”

Highlighting Katsina’s historical significance, the minister said the state plays a critical role in telling Nigeria’s story.

She pointed to historical landmarks such as the Gobarau Minaret and Kusugu Well as key assets in the government’s plan to promote domestic tourism and create a global hub for creativity and innovation.

“We are putting in place strong policies and infrastructure to help every state in Nigeria showcase its heritage.

“This initiative is about celebrating the uniqueness of each state and turning that into economic opportunity.

“The project aims to create platforms for youth engagement, particularly for content creators and cultural entrepreneurs, allowing them to explore and showcase their talents while contributing to national development,” she said.

Musawa said the inspection of the historical monuments in Daura and Katsina are targeted to renovating them and considering them for recommendation as UNESCO Heritage Site.

Responding on behalf of the Katsina State Government, the Commissioner for Rural and Social Development, Prof. Abdulhamid Ahmed, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government’s commitment.

“This initiative is timely, and we are fully committed to supporting it; it has the potential to transform Katsina into a key destination for domestic tourism,” he stated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister visited the Emir of Daura, Faruk Umar Faruk-Umar, where she was taken around to see some historical moments, like the Kusugu Well.

Other areas she visited were: Durbi Takusheyi, Gobarau Minaret, and other rich monuments in the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Bashir Rabe Mani

Nigeria advocates stronger healthcare regulation at AMCOA Workshop
Health

Nigeria advocates stronger healthcare regulation at AMCOA Workshop

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By Abujah Racheal

The Federal Government has urged stronger healthcare regulation and increased collaboration to address key challenges faced by health systems across Africa.

This call was made on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCOA) workshop in Abuja.

Dr Iziq Adekunle Salako, the Coordinating Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, emphasised the urgency of taking action to resolve critical issues affecting healthcare across the continent.

In his opening remarks, Salako highlighted several pressing challenges, including health workforce migration, practitioner malpractice, and gaps in data management.

He stressed that health regulators play a crucial role in shaping resilient health systems, ensuring effective leadership and robust regulation.

“Africa stands at a crossroads, facing unprecedented challenges, from pandemics to the increasing migration of skilled healthcare professionals. The time to act is now,” he stated.

One of the central points of Salako’s address was the issue of health workforce migration, a significant concern for Nigeria and many African countries.

He said in spite of the continent producing some of the world’s best-trained healthcare professionals, many of these individuals sought better opportunities abroad, putting additional pressure on local health systems.

He called for strategies to incentivise healthcare workers to stay while ensuring that migration benefited both countries of origin and destination.

Salako also proposed legally binding agreements between African nations and countries receiving professionals, urging destination nations to contribute more to the development of Africa’s healthcare infrastructure.

Salako also underscored the importance of strengthening credentialing systems to maintain public trust in healthcare services.

He advocated for transparent frameworks that ensured only qualified professionals provide care.

Furthermore, he stressed the need for effective, consistent systems to address practitioner malpractice, which could erode trust in healthcare professionals.

He called on regulators to balance discipline with opportunities for rehabilitation, ensuring patient safety remained a priority.

The minister also addressed the critical role of data management in modern healthcare regulation, urging the use of enhanced digital health platforms to improve data sharing and decision-making.

“Without accurate data, we cannot track workforce trends or respond effectively to health challenges,” he remarked.

He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to improving healthcare under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, highlighting significant investments in the health sector, including funding for regulatory bodies and healthcare infrastructure.

Prof. Afolabi Lesi, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s role in hosting the AMCOA workshop.

He acknowledged the leadership of AMCOA and the General Assembly for approving Nigeria to host the event.

Lesi emphasised the importance of integrated healthcare regulation and leadership at this crucial time, given the ongoing challenges such as workforce migration, healthcare worker burnout, and insufficient infrastructure.

He stressed that collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals were essential to address these challenges and improve the quality of healthcare systems across the continent.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the AMCOA workshop provides a valuable platform for healthcare regulators and experts from across Africa to exchange knowledge and develop strategies for building stronger, more resilient health systems.

The event marks an important milestone in Nigeria’s engagement with AMCOA and its commitment to advancing healthcare regulation in Africa. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Mobile money exceeds 2bn accounts, 500m monthly active users globally in 2024 – Report
Science & Tech

Mobile money exceeds 2bn accounts, 500m monthly active users globally in 2024 – Report

354 total views today

By Funmilola Gboteku

The GSM Association (GSMA) has indicated that globally, mobile money reached two significant milestones in 2024, one of which was surpassing two billion registered accounts.

The GSMA, which made this known in its recently released State of Industry Report for Mobile Money 2025 on Tuesday, added the second milestone was exceeding half a billion monthly active users.

The GSM Association (GSMA) is a non-profit trade association that represents the interests of mobile network operators worldwide.

According to the GSMA report: “The mobile money industry took 18 years, from 2001, to reach one billion registered accounts and 250 million active users.

“Remarkably, it doubled its size in the subsequent five years.”

The latest report highlighted a robust double-digit growth in both the volume and value of transactions conducted through mobile money accounts in 2024.

It noted that approximately 108 billion transactions, totalling over 1.68 trillion dollars were processed through mobile money accounts in 2024.

It said that year-on-year, transaction volumes increased by 20 per cent while transaction values grew by 16 per cent, a notable increase from the 13 per cent growth recorded in 2023.

The report, however, noted that in spite of the significant progress achieved in mobile money globally, several barriers to its wider adoption persisted.

According to the GSMA report, a notable barrier to wider adoption is the gender gap in mobile money ownership.

“Among 12 countries surveyed, eight continue to exhibit a gender gap, with little improvement observed since 2023.

“Limited awareness of mobile money services and low digital financial literacy are identified as significant barriers, particularly affecting women,” the association said.

However, the report also highlighted a positive trend, noting that women who do hold mobile money accounts are nearly as likely as men to have actively used them in the past 30 days.

To address these persistent challenges and promote greater financial inclusion, the GSMA reported that nearly 60 per cent of mobile money providers had launched digital financial literacy initiatives.

According to the GSMA, these initiatives aim at improving financial skills among the population and driving the long-term adoption of mobile money services.

Commenting, Vivek Badrinath, the Director-General of GSMA, further highlighted the importance of supporting financial literacy programmes.

“These programmes empower underserved populations and create new opportunities for informed financial decision-making,” he said.

Badrinath stressed that mobile money had emerged as a powerful driver of financial inclusion and economic growth.

“However, its continued success depends on supportive regulatory environments that promote innovation, accessibility and help unlock the full socio-economic potential,” he said.

The director-general stressed the critical role of collaboration between governments, regulators, and financial service providers.

He said that collaboration was essential to ensure that mobile money remained accessible, affordable and safe for all users.

The report said that mobile money continued to play a pivotal role in global economic development.

It said that mobile money providers were increasingly offering adjacent financial services beyond basic transactions.

It noted that these included credit, savings and insurance products, indicating a maturation of the mobile money ecosystem.

The report said that as of June 2024, 44 per cent of mobile money providers offered credit services, making it the most commonly provided adjacent financial product.

It noted that savings services on the other hand, were offered by approximately one-third of providers.

The report said that Insurance remained the least common adjacent service, with around 28 per cent of providers offering it.

It noted further that Sub-Saharan Africa remained the world’s most active mobile money region, driven by new registered accounts and rising monthly activity in East and West Africa.

The report said further that East Africa was the leading driver of monthly active account growth in 2024, followed by Southeast Asia and West Africa.

It noted that while Sub-Saharan Africa maintained its position as the most active mobile money region globally, the East Asia-Pacific region was also demonstrating significant progress.

“East Asia-Pacific recorded the second-fastest growth rate for active monthly accounts, only surpassed by the Middle East and North Africa.

“Its growth rate is supported by enabling regulatory environments in key markets such as Cambodia, Fiji, the Philippines, and Vietnam,” the report explained. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Nigeria launches counselling council to regulate practices
Education

Nigeria launches counselling council to regulate practices

350 total views today

By Funmilayo Adeyemi

The Federal Ministry of Education has officially unveiled the Counselling Practitioners of Nigeria (CPCN) Council with the goal of regulating counselling practice nationwide.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Abel Enitan, emphasised the need for the council to improve the quality of counselling services in Nigeria during the inauguration held in Abuja on Tuesday.

Represented by the Director of Polytechnics and Allied Education, Usman Ejeh, Enitan acknowledged the setbacks in counselling practice.

He noted issues such as misconceptions, role conflicts, and a lack of understanding of the counselling profession, which had hindered its effectiveness.

“Behavioural challenges commonly manifest among adolescents, which can hinder their growth and development into responsible adults in society if left unchecked.

“It is also important to note that counselling practice, particularly in Nigerian schools, has suffered setbacks.

“This is due to issues such as misconceptions, a lack of understanding of the concepts and nature of counselling, undefined roles, and role conflicts, all of which have made counselling appear ineffective in achieving its desired goals.

“It was on this premise that the Federal Ministry of Education conceived the idea of developing the National Policy on Counselling (NPC) and its implementation guidelines,” he said.

He stressed that the new committee would focus on defining counsellors’ roles and streamlining counselling practices to ensure desired outcomes.

The Director of Education Support Services, Lara Nana-Ahmed, urged the council to recognise their pivotal role in contributing to the development of the education sector.

In response, the Chairman of the Governing Board, Prof. Malami Tambawal, assured the council’s commitment to advancing educational development in Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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