News Agency of Nigeria
2025 IWD: MAN, women industrialists seek work-life balance, gender equality policies
Business

2025 IWD: MAN, women industrialists seek work-life balance, gender equality policies

By Rukayat Moisemhe

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and some women industrialists have called for the implementation of policies that support work-life balance and gender equality.

They made the call in Lagos at an event organised by MAN in commemoration of the International Women’s Day, annually celebrated on March 8.

The 2025 Edition has the theme: “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality.”

Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director-General, MAN, emphasised the need for mentorship and training programmes and active promotion of women into leadership positions.

He noted that while celebrating the achievements of women today, it was also important to reflect on the work that still lay ahead.

Ajayi-Kadir stressed the collective responsibility of the public to challenge stereotypes, dismantle barriers and advocate for policies that promote gender equality.

“As we stand here today, we recognise that women play a pivotal role in the manufacturing sector and the broader economy of Nigeria.

“Women have been at the forefront of driving growth, enhancing productivity, and bringing fresh perspectives to our industries.

“In spite of these contributions, we know that challenges remain, gender disparities persist and many women still face barriers that hinder their full participation in the workforce,” he said.

The MAN D-G called for gender diversity in the workplace to lead to improved performance, increased creativity and enhanced problem-solving capabilities.

He said that when women thrive, businesses thrive, and when businesses thrive, the nation flourished.

He also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting gender equality within the manufacturing sector.

Princess Funlayo Bakare-Okeowo, an industrialist, described Nigerian women as an unstoppable moving train.

Bakare-Okeowo, Chief Executive Officer, FAE Envelopes Ltd., however, noted that while women in other climes were breaking glass ceilings, in Nigeria, women appeared to be crawling.

She said Nigerian women in the business world must take the bull by its horns and compete fiercely to be taken seriously.

“We must stop pitying ourselves, start thinking outside the box, and partner with other women to advance business and industrialisation.

“Women must learn to mentor young ladies, hold each other’s hands, invest in trainings and partner with sectoral organisations to advance personal growth and business success.

“Let us work together to create a future where every woman can realise her full potential, where her contributions are recognised and celebrated, and where gender equality is not just a goal, but a reality,” she said.

Mrs Ekanma Akpan, CEO, Showers Group, said that women’s education was a key to acceleration, and urged women to set emotions aside in politics and business environment.

She also called on women to come together to speak with one voice for the much-needed change to be established. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Tinubu appoints Chief Medical Directors for 6 federal hospitals
Health

Tinubu appoints Chief Medical Directors for 6 federal hospitals

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu has appointed six Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) for federal government-owned hospitals in Akure, Gombe, Azare, Lafiya, Maiduguri and Kafanchan.

Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, said the newly appointed CMDs and their hospitals are Prof. Olusegun Ojo, CMD, Federal Teaching Hospital, Akure, Ondo State, who previously served as pioneer CMD of Ondo State Specialist Hospital.

“Prof. Yusuf Abdullahi has been reappointed as the CMD of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, following an outstanding performance during his first term. His reappointment underscores his exceptional leadership and contributions to the hospital’s growth.

“Dr Dauda Katagum, the Acting Chief Medical Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Azare, Bauchi State, has been confirmed as the substantive CMD.

“Dr Ikrama Hassan is appointed Chief Medical Director of the newly upgraded Federal Teaching Hospital in Lafiya, Nasarawa State.”

A consultant physician, Hassan previously served as the Medical Director of the Dalhatu Ibrahim Arab Specialist Hospital before its elevation to a teaching hospital.

Similarly, Dr Ali Ramat, a Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon, is appointed Chief Medical Director of the newly established National Orthopaedic Hospital in Maiduguri, Borno.

The President also approved the appointment of Dr Haruna Shehu, a Consultant Family Physician, as Chief Medical Director of the newly established Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan, Kaduna State.

“All appointments are for four years, effective from the respective dates of assumption of office.”

Abdullahi’s second and final term as CMD of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, commenced on Sept. 5, 2024.

Also, Katagum’s tenure as CMD of the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Azare, Bauchi State, took effect from Dec. 6, 2024.

Tinubu congratulated the newly appointed and reappointed Chief Medical Directors, urging them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and service delivery in their respective roles.

He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring all Nigerians have access to quality medical services. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

UBTH CMD praises Tinubu’s healthcare contributions
Health

UBTH CMD praises Tinubu’s healthcare contributions

By Imelda Osayande

The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Darlington Obaseki, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its contributions to the healthcare sector.

Obaseki made the commendation while receiving the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo Council, at UBTH in Benin.

He highlighted the president’s commitment to Nigerians’ well-being, citing the installation of a Radiotherapy Machine at the hospital as a clear demonstration of this dedication.

Obaseki noted that such a facility was previously unavailable in the South-South region but is now being installed under the President’s directive and supervision.

“We have been advocating for this. There is no radiotherapy machine in any government hospital in the South-South, except for one in a private hospital in Calabar.

“I have been advocating, and fortunately, this new minister and president deserve credit for making it happen.

“This government, under President Bola Tinubu, has provided more healthcare funding than any other in recent times,” he stated.

According to him, this admission is the honest truth and not a political statement.

“The health budget this year is massive across all hospitals, the Ministry of Health, and its agencies,” he pointed out.

He assured that the benefits of this increased funding would soon be evident, with UBTH already making use of the support.

Obaseki also pointed out that the hospital’s strategic location results in a high daily influx of patients, which places more strain on the available staff.

He advised that when choosing the next CMD, people should consider the candidates’ track records and past contributions to UBTH.

The next CMD, he stressed, should be someone capable of building on his achievements and further advancing the hospital’s growth.

Earlier, NUJ Chairman, Festus Alenkhe, commended Obaseki for initiatives that have placed UBTH on the global map, particularly its 50th-anniversary celebration.

Alenkhe also praised the strong relationship between the union and the hospital management, calling for its continuation. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

ANSG begins digitalisation of hotels, others to tackle insecurity
Defence/Security

ANSG begins digitalisation of hotels, others to tackle insecurity

By Obinna Unaeze

The Anambra Government says it has begun the digital registration of hotels and entertainment centres in the state as part of measures to tackle insecurity in the state.

Mr Don Onyenji, the state Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, said this in Awka, during a one-day interactive session with hotel owners in the state.

“One of the major factors that is critical to tourism and entertainment industries is security.

“Therefore, we have started the process of digitalisation of hotels and entertainment centres in Anambra State to know where you are, what you are doing and how you are doing it.

“This will help us to know your challenges, proffer solutions to them, and also improve your services,” he said.

According to him, the Anambra State Government wants to make the state a place where people can come, invest and relax.

Onyenji said that no nation could grow without these industries being restructured, responsive and well managed.

He said that the state government was poised to make the industries function to international standard.

He added that government had embarked on construction and rehabilitation of 700 kilometres of roads across the state to support the sector.

The commissioner said that out of the roads, 400 kilometres had been completed.

“Right now, Anambra State has taken a different shape, that is why more hotels are being established.

“The state government is currently developing five tourism centres in the state.

“Beyond these, we are going to do a master plan that will encourage the development of rural tourism,” he said.

He stressed the need for hospitality industry in the state to adhere to international standards, hence the digitalisation and the “Homeland Security Law” of the state.

Similarly, Mr Gilbert Ibezim, Deputy Governor of the state, urged the hoteliers to read and digest the Homeland Security Laws of the state to enable them implement it to tackle insecurity and attract investment.

Ibezim tasked the hotel owners on functional Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in their hotels to also help ensure security.

Earlier, Mr Christian Udechukwu, the state Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, urged the hoteliers to set aside money to upgrade their facilities.

According to him, this is to ensure compliance with international standards and the Homeland Security Law of the state.

Mr Kingsley Ezika, Senior Special Adviser (SSA) to Gov. Chukwuma Soludo on Security (anti-cultism) said the Homeland Security Law, enabled the state to profile and digitalise hotels and entertainment centres in the state.

Ezika said that with the new law, guests in hotels across the state must present valid identification issued by the government.

“All hotel guests must present valid identification such as the National Identification Card, international passport or voter cards, among others.

“Upon registration at the hotel, the details of the guest will be downloaded and forwarded to the government,” he said.

Chief Ifeanyi Nwokoye, Chairman, Association of Hotel Owners in the state, assured government that members of the association would comply with the government laws and regulatory bodies.

Nwokoye, represented by the Vice- Chairman, Mr Taiwo Ogunshola, appealed to the state government to help improve power supply to enable them save cost of running generators in their hotels.

He urged the government to tackle the issue of multiple taxation against the hoteliers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the state government enacted the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, on Jan. 17; to combat criminal activities.

According to Soludo, the law will address the root causes of crime and restore the state’s reputation for moral integrity.

NAN also reports that the police, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency were part of the meeting. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Greg Maduakolam/Maureen Atuonwu

FMBN records significant improvements in service delivery – SERVICOM
Metro

FMBN records significant improvements in service delivery – SERVICOM

By Okon Okon

The Service Compact with All Nigerians (SERVICOM) has commended the management of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) for enhancing service delivery to its customers.

SERVICOM National Coordinator, Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, made the commendation at the presentation of the 2024 Service Compliance Evaluation (SCE) Report on 16 branches of the bank, held at its headquarters in Abuja.

The evaluation aims to identify service delivery gaps and recommend improvements to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance customer satisfaction and accountability.

Akajemeli noted that a comparison between FMBN’s 2021 assessment and the 2024 findings revealed significant progress in service delivery.

“FMBN was selected for evaluation to assess its current state of service delivery.

“In 2021, 17 locations, including the headquarters, were assessed for compliance with the SERVICOM index.

“To expand the sample, 16 additional state branches were evaluated in 2024,” she stated.

She explained that the evaluation involved customer interviews, discussions with developers, contributors, State Civil Service Commissions, management, staff, and partners, as well as a review of key FMBN documents and its website.

Citing the states of Abia and Osun as examples, she noted that these branches had the highest number of subscribers from the informal sector, who registered as cooperative societies to access housing units.

“In Osun, the bank has increased access to its services by introducing the Diaspora Loan for those in the informal sector.  This shows some innovation in its service delivery process.”

However, she highlighted certain challenges, particularly inadequate oversight of developers at the state level.

“Some developers used their own funds to construct estates and subsequently raised housing prices to recover costs.

“This has made it difficult for civil servants in states like Abia to afford homes, leading to losses, as seen in the SLOGANI Estate case.

“Customers in Asaba, Benin, Ekiti, Ilorin, Osun, and Ondo also raised concerns over the high prices of FMBN-funded houses, particularly under the Rent-to-Own (RTO) product, which they found unaffordable.

“Some customers in Umuahia, Awka, Uyo, Yenagoa, Asaba, Abakaliki, Benin, and Ekiti complained that there was delay in payment of Home Renovation Loans (HRL) and refunds by the bank.

“Thus, customers are losing confidence in the scheme and threatened to pull out due to delays and high cost of materials occasioned by inflation.

“This has depreciated the value of the loan when eventually disbursed.”

To address these issues, Akajemeli recommended that FMBN decentralise decision-making on loan disbursements at the state level to ensure timely service delivery.

She also urged the bank to establish clear pricing guidelines and closely monitor fund disbursement to prevent arbitrary price increases by developers.

In response, FMBN Managing Director, Mr Shehu Osidi, praised SERVICOM for its comprehensive evaluation.

“I am very excited about this report. Your team has demonstrated an in-depth understanding of our operations, and I appreciate the wide coverage,” Osidi said.

He assured that FMBN would address the identified gaps and further enhance its service delivery.

Osidi also took the opportunity to launch the FMBN Customer Care Policy, which outlined clear guidelines for staff and customers to ensure consistent and professional interactions with the public, in line with the bank’s vision of delivering exceptional service.

“The customer care mandate is also driven by the 4th pillar of the bank’s 5-year strategic plan, enhancement of customer experience, improvement in customer service delivery directly translates to enhance customer experience,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Ministry commits to mitigating negative regulatory issues in agro commodities export
General News

Ministry commits to mitigating negative regulatory issues in agro commodities export

By Vivian Emoni

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, has assured stakeholders in the non-oil export sector that the ministry is fully committed to mitigating negative regulatory issues in the agro commodities export.

Oduwole gave the assurance in Abuja, while inaugurating a Standing Working Group for the Implementation of Standard and Trade Development Facility (STDF) 845 Project on Sesame Seed and Cowpea, by the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC).

She said that the efforts would ensure that Nigerian products such as sesame seeds, cowpea and other products meet international standards.

It would be recalled that Nigerian sesame and cowpea exports were increasingly being rejected due to non-compliance with international standards.

According to her, detailed data and actual rejection volumes, monetary values and the number of consignments affected by complaints and seizures highlight the severe implications for export performance.

“This evidence is critical for convincing our trading partners of our commitment to stringent quality controls,” she said.

The minister said that Nigeria was the fourth largest producer of sesame globally, with Japan alone representing 40 per cent of sesame export.

“Yet, we face challenges, stringent border controls driven by excessive pesticide residues and microbial contamination have led to numerous consignments being rejected.

“Our data, as detailed in our recent report at the check-in, reveals tangible figures, volumes, values and documented instances of seizures.

“It also reveals a number of penalties that underscore the severe impact on our export performance and Nigeria’s standing among global exporters,” she said.

Oduwole said that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) was indispensable in setting standards for Good Agricultural Practices and ensuring widespread awareness and education.

She urged NAFDAC to work hand-in-hand with the ministry through NEPC to establish a robust National Traceability System (NTS) by engaging partners.

She also said that NAFDAC had shown commendable resolve by identifying and eliminating substandard production facilities.

“It is imperative that this level of rigour be extended to all goods destined for international markets,” she said.

Oduwole said that Value Chain Vulnerabilities, Operational Gaps Pesticide Application and Monitoring Field studies revealed that pesticide application in the sesame and cowpea value chains relied predominantly on traditional, experience driven methods.

“This is with minimal use of objective tools or monitoring systems. This inconsistency significantly heightens the risk of exceeding Maximum Residue Levels.

She noted that the ministry was committed to engaging with Japanese counterparts to resolve the current export ban and pave way for renewed market access.

“We have a unique opportunity to transform this challenge into a landmark achievement. Today, we validate our baseline study findings and inaugurate our standing committee for effective implementation.

“We will commence a comprehensive Train-the-Trainers programme on Integrated Pest Management.

“Your unwavering support, technical expertise, and steadfast commitment are essential to this endeavour.

“Let us move together to ensure we resolve our challenges and achieve our vision, ensuring that Nigerian exports remain synonymous with excellence and global competitiveness.

Dr Nonye Ayeni, Director-General of NEPC, said that the STDF 845 project for sesame and cowpea was a three-year co-funded project between the International Trade Centre and the NEPC.

Ayeni said that the project was to enhance the quality of Nigeria’s sesame and cowpea export by ensuring compliance with pesticide residue levels and avoiding salmonella contamination.

“The partnership aims to reduce rejections of Nigerian cowpea and sesame exports in the global market.”

The director-general said the market value of sesame in the international market, which stood at 7.67 billion dollars in 2025, was expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.3 per cent in 2030.

“Only last year, Nigeria exported 463.827 million dollars worth of sesame seed in the global market reaffirming the huge value the commodity brings to the economic growth of the non-oil export sector.”

She said that Nigeria was the second largest exporter of sesame seeds in Africa and third in the world while the product was exported mainly to Europe, North America, the Far East and the Middle East.

She said the market value of cowpea, presently worth 7.60 billion dollars, was expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5 per cent in 2030.

“Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cowpeas. Cowpea is a vital crop in Nigeria which contributes significantly to food security, nutrition and revenue.

“These underscore the importance of the STDF 845 project and the need for a baseline study.

“The baseline study of cowpea and sesame is critical in understanding current practices, procedures, and regulations with respect to sanitary and phyto-sanitary standards,” she said.

Mr Simon Heisig, Programme Officer, International Trade Centre (ITC), said that his office would ensure maximum support to ensure effective implementation of the project. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

FG to resuscitate National Electronic Dashboard to tackle GBV
Gender

FG to resuscitate National Electronic Dashboard to tackle GBV

By Justina Auta

Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, has announced plans to revive the National Electronic Dashboard, aimed at providing comprehensive data to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

She made this known during a media briefing to launch the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, themed “Accelerate Action,” on Thursday in Abuja.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the challenges faced by women and girls, noting that, for the first time in the ministry’s 30-year history, the President significantly increased its budget.

“This reflects the government’s strong commitment to women’s empowerment.

“With these increased resources, we will prioritise the revitalisation of the Ministry’s legacy project, the National Electronic Dashboard, launched in collaboration with the European Union-United Nations (EU-UN) Spotlight Initiative in November 2020.

“The dashboard will provide essential data to help combat GBV and will support the work of the inter-ministerial technical committee on GBV,” she said.

The minister also shared plans to expand programmes focused on women’s economic empowerment, digital skills acquisition for girls, family cohesion initiatives, child protection, and participation.

Additionally, she emphasised unlocking new opportunities for women through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that the ministry would focus on legislative advocacy, empowering women economically, supporting girls’ education, and continuing the fight against GBV.

Regarding Nigeria’s progress in gender equality, she said, “While Nigeria has made significant strides with gender-responsive laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) and the Child Rights Act, full implementation remains a challenge.”

She further pointed out that 35 states had domesticated the VAPP Act, and 34 states had adopted the Child Rights Act, though full compliance and enforcement remained critical.

The minister also acknowledged that women were a driving force behind Nigeria’s informal economy, owning 41 per cent of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

However, she noted that challenges such as access to finance, markets, and digital literacy hindered the scaling of these businesses.

“To address this, 4.5 million women will be supported to bridge these gaps, with skills development for 500,000 women under the MOWA-SARA initiative, supported by WEMA Bank.”

On political representation, Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the gender imbalance in the 10th National Assembly, where only four out of 109 Senators and 17 out of 360 House of Representatives members were women.

Fifteen states lacked female representation, which, according to her, was not reflective of a progressive democracy.

“We must accelerate efforts toward political inclusion, ensuring women have a seat at the table in governance and development,” she stressed.

The minister urged Nigerians to strengthen their commitment to overcoming the challenges that hinder Nigerian women and girls from reaching their full potential. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Nigeria launches new standards for ethical organ transplantation
Health

Nigeria launches new standards for ethical organ transplantation

By Abujah Racheal

The Federal Government has launched the Standards and Guidelines for Establishing and Coordinating Organ/Tissue Transplantation Services in Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in regulating and improving organ donation and transplantation practices in the country.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, on Thursday in Abuja, stated that the new framework underscored the government’s commitment to saving lives through ethical organ transplantation procedures.

Salako, represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr Jimoh Salaudeen, emphasised that organ transplantation was more than a medical procedure.

“It is a life-saving intervention that offers renewed hope to patients battling end-stage organ failure.

“For many individuals, organ transplantation is not just a treatment but a second chance at life.

“This document, validated on Nov. 13, 2024, sets the foundation for safe, ethical, and transparent organ and tissue transplantation services in Nigeria,” he said.

He further noted that the new guidelines were developed through extensive collaboration with healthcare professionals, legal experts, professional bodies, media organisations, and other key stakeholders.

“The guidelines address critical areas such as donor protection, transplant patient safety, ethical practices, and compliance mechanisms.

“The document is designed to build trust in Nigeria’s organ transplantation system by ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices,” he added.

Acknowledging the challenges facing organ transplantation in Nigeria, such as unethical organ harvesting and the need for informed consent, the minister stressed the importance of public awareness, infrastructural development, and strong regulatory enforcement.

“This is not just a policy; it is a commitment to life. However, for these guidelines to be effective, we must bridge gaps in public education, medical infrastructure, and regulatory compliance.

“That is why we are mobilising stakeholders including health professionals, policymakers, and civil society to foster a culture where organ donation is both understood and ethically managed,” he said.

Salako commended the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standards Committee (NTHISC) and all stakeholders involved in developing the guidelines, urging them to work together to ensure effective implementation.

“This is a milestone in our mission to improve healthcare and save lives. But it is also the beginning of a new journey.

“Together, let us build a future where organ transplantation in Nigeria becomes a beacon of hope, not a source of fear,” he added.

The Chairman of the National Tertiary Health Institutions Standards Committee (NTHISC), Prof. Phillip Abiodun, described the launch of the new standards and guidelines as a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Speaking at the official unveiling of the regulatory framework, Abiodun noted that the document represented a firm commitment to ethical medical practices, safeguarding lives, and restoring public trust.

“For too long, organ transplantation in Nigeria has been plagued by irregularities, exploitation, and a lack of robust regulatory frameworks.

“Today, we take decisive steps toward changing the narrative and building a system that prioritises transparency, accountability, and equity,” he said.

Abiodun emphasised that the NTHISC, established under the National Health Act of 2014, was responsible for regulating tertiary healthcare facilities across the country.

He noted that ensuring ethical and internationally aligned organ transplantation services was one of its core responsibilities.

“The new guidelines cover key aspects of organ transplantation, including ethical considerations, informed consent requirements, donor protection mechanisms, and measures to prevent exploitation.

“These provisions align with global standards while considering Nigeria’s unique challenges,” he emphasised.

Abiodun highlighted key reforms for the next phase, which include: all healthcare institutions performing organ transplants must obtain certification to ensure only qualified facilities handle such delicate procedures.

“Strict oversight mechanisms will be established to ensure adherence to the guidelines, with legal consequences for non-compliance.

“The initiative has received backing from the House of Representatives Committee on Human Rights, with lawmakers pledging to strengthen regulations on organ transplantation.

“A national database will be created to track donations and transplants while maintaining transparency.

“Nigerians will be sensitised to the importance of organ donation and the safeguards in place to protect donors and recipients.”

He also stressed the need for cultural and religious reorientation regarding organ donation.

“Many myths have discouraged people from donating organs, but we must begin to see it differently.

“You can give life, sight, or health to another person even after your death. That is why we must encourage initiatives like including ‘organ donor’ status on driver’s licenses,” he said.

Abiodun called for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the success of the initiative, emphasising that non-compliance would not be tolerated.

“As the saying goes, ‘two hands make lifting easier.’ Our collective effort will ensure that organ transplantation in Nigeria is ethical, transparent, and accessible to those in need,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights, Rep. Abiola Makinde, reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Representatives to safeguarding Nigerians’ rights in organ transplantation through legislative support.

Makinde commended the initiative as timely and long overdue, particularly appreciating the emphasis on informed consent in organ transplantation.

“Informed consent is crucial, and I appreciate its emphasis here today. The protection of human rights will always be our priority,” he said.

He assured the Federal Ministry of Health of the House Committee’s commitment to collaboration, especially in addressing violations and human rights concerns related to organ transplantation.

Acknowledging the global challenge of organ trafficking, he pledged legislative support to combat such illicit activities.

“You can count on us in the House of Representatives to remain active partners in ensuring ethical organ transplantation practices.

“If there are necessary amendments to existing laws, we are ready to work with stakeholders to strengthen the legal framework,” he added.

He also thanked Abiodun for the invitation, noting that the House of Representatives would support any legislative efforts to regulate organ transplantation in Nigeria.

“We are willing to propose amendments where needed, ensuring appropriate legal consequences and penalties for violators.

“The House of Reps will not hesitate to present the bill before the House and work towards securing presidential assent,” he assured.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by key stakeholders in the health sector, marking a significant step toward establishing ethical and standardised organ transplantation services in Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

By Abiemwense Moru

Scientists working to extend human lifespan to 250 years – Medical expert
Health

Scientists working to extend human lifespan to 250 years – Medical expert

By Desmond Ejibas

Dr Ibrahim Wada, a medical expert, has suggested that advancements in modern medicine could extend human lifespan by up to 250 years within the next 40 years.

Wada, Founder of Nisa Medical Group, made this assertion while delivering the Second Nimi Dimkpa Briggs Legacy Lecture Series at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) on Thursday.

Speaking as the guest lecturer on the topic ‘The Longevity of Man,’ Wada stated that such feat could be realised as scientists continued to make rapid progress in medical technology and genetic engineering.

He highlighted the breakthroughs in genetic science that have enabled researchers to create artificial eggs and sperm from human saliva, which could then be used to grow babies in artificial wombs.

“This technology has already produced live rats. It is only a matter of time before humans benefit from similar advancements,” he disclosed.

Wada, an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Abubakar Tafawa Belewa University, Bauchi, further emphasised the potential of stem cells, artificial organs, and genetic reprogramming in prolonging human life.

According to him, science has now reached a stage where human genetic codes can be understood and manipulated to enhance longevity.

“Recreating stem cells from a person’s genes and reintroducing them into the body can regenerate dead cells and significantly extend lifespan.

“In another 30 to 40 years, it will be normal for individuals to expect to live for 200 or even 250 years.

“This will happen because humanity has now entered the age of computer reprogramming,” he added.

Wada lamented the fact that such advanced medical technologies are not yet available in Nigeria.

He also stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups, healthy eating, regular exercise, and adequate rest in achieving longevity.

“Rest is essential for brain function. So, when it is time to rest, you must allow the brain to rest – no compromise,” Wada advised.

Reflecting on the legacy of Prof. Briggs, UNIPORT’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, described Briggs as a visionary leader, philanthropist, and academic giant.

He questioned whether longevity was merely a measure of biological persistence or encompasses something more profound.

“This is because it is not the breath we take, but the fire we ignite,” Georgewill remarked.

Prof. Ngozi Orazulike, Chair Occupant of the Nimi Briggs Professorial Chair in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, noted that Briggs made immense contributions to the medical and teaching professions.

She stated that the late medical icon had a multifaceted career as a doctor, teacher, researcher, mentor, and philanthropist.

In response, the late icon’s son, Nima Briggs, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition of his father’s contributions in the country.

“It is humbling to see my father’s legacy live on, with events still being organised to honour his memory,” Briggs concluded. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Court orders final forfeiture of .4m linked to Emefiele
Judiciary

Court orders final forfeiture of $1.4m linked to Emefiele

By Sandra Umeh

A Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday, ordered a final forfeiture of the sum of 1.43 million dollars, linked to embattled former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Godwin Emefiele.

The forfeiture suit was filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Justice Ayokunle Faji, in his judgment, held that the sum formed proceeds of unlawful activities and ought to be forfeited to the Federal Government.

The court, consequently ordered forfeiture of same.

The court held that the anti graft agency had proved its case, establishing unlawfulness of the said funds.

The EFCC counsel, Mrs Bilkisu Bahri-Bala, had told the court that the sum was lodged in the account of Donatone Ltd domiciled in Titan Trust Bank.

She had argued that the funds had been established to be proceeds of unlawful activities.

In an affidavit deposed to by one David Jayeoba, an EFCC investigating officer, he said that the commission received Intelligence report on the crime.

According to him, this led to the filing of the forfeiture proceedings.

“In the course of my investigation, the commission received intelligence which led to tracing of the funds warehoused in the Donatone Ltd.

“While investigating the monumental fraud, we discovered a huge amount of money warehoused and concealed in the account of the company, domiciled in Titan Trust Bank.

“Part of the said funds, which represent the proceeds of Emefiele and his cronies’ unlawful activities, are retained in the accounts now sought to be forfeited,” he averred.

According to the deponent, directors were procured by Emefiele, to conceal, retain and disguise funds which are proceeds of unlawful activities.

Justice Faji, had on May 30, 2024, ordered interim forfeiture of the funds, which final forfeiture the court ordered on Thursday. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

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