By Abujah Racheal, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Mr Shedreck Hammayaji, 37-year-old, a dedicated nurse at Kwali General Hospital, Kwali, Abuja, demonstrates an unwavering commitment to healthcare and community service despite facing numerous challenges. 

During the height of outbreaks, Hammayaji said that he witnessed the strain on the healthcare system firsthand as patients inundated the hospital with symptoms of the deadly virus.

“I remember the fear in people’s eyes as they sought treatment, unsure if they would survive.

“We were overwhelmed, with limited supplies and staff to handle the growing number of cases,” he recalled.

His experiences shed light on the critical importance of adequate funding in epidemic preparedness. 

With increased resources, healthcare workers like him could receive better training, access essential equipment, and strengthen disease surveillance systems to respond effectively to outbreaks.

His story serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of funding decisions on frontline healthcare workers and the communities they serve. 

It underscored the urgent need to invest in epidemic preparedness to safeguard the health and well-being of Nigerians nationwide.

In light of recent health crises also unknown in the country, including outbreaks of diphtheria, Lassa fever, measles, and meningitis, the significance of epidemic preparedness funding cannot be overstated in Nigeria.

Nigeria, as one of the most populous countries in Africa, faces unique challenges in dealing with potential epidemics due to its large and diverse population. 

Comparing the budget amounts for 2024 with the total budget for health security in 2023 reveals a significant discrepancy.

The Ebola outbreak in West Africa stands as one of the deadliest in history, starkly illustrating the repercussions of insufficient epidemic preparedness funding. 

The impact was profound: limited funding impeded early detection and response efforts, exacerbating the severity of the outbreak. 

Conversely, countries with stronger healthcare systems and better-funded preparedness programmes demonstrated more effective responses.

Beyond the human toll, the outbreak inflicted economic turmoil, especially in regions lacking adequate preparedness funding, resulting in income loss and trade disruption. 

Despite global mobilisation, the fragmented response underscored the urgent need for enhanced coordination and investment in preparedness.

From this crisis emerged valuable lessons- the critical necessity of adequate funding for preparedness to mount effective outbreak responses. 

Moreover, it highlighted the pivotal role of public-private partnerships and international cooperation in shaping an effective response framework. 

According to public health experts, investing in preparedness not only fortifies healthcare systems but also equips them to confront future threats with resilience.

In spite of commendable strides in recent years, they said that the country still faces significant challenges in funding epidemic preparedness, as per a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report.

The report underscores the need for increased investment in surveillance, laboratory capacity, and health system strengthening to adequately respond to infectious diseases.

One major challenge the report said was the lack of sustained financial commitment from both the federal government and international donors. 

While funding spikes during crises like the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic, it often lacks consistency, hindering long-term preparedness efforts.

The COVID-19 pandemic also exposed the vulnerabilities in the country’s health system, underlining the urgent need for increased investment in epidemic preparedness. 

Shortages of critical supplies during the pandemic highlighted the consequences of insufficient funding allocation and prioritisation.

To address these challenges, experts underscored coordinated efforts to prioritise preparedness, boost funding commitments, and enhance resource allocation and utilisation. 

The Joint External Evaluation (JEE) tool has been instrumental in evaluating Nigeria’s health capacities, leading to notable improvements in health security ratings.

Nigeria utilised the JEE tool 3.0 to evaluate the implementation status of health capacities in the country, measuring progress across 56 indicators spanning 19 International Health Regulations (IHR) core capacities. 

Dr Geoffrey Jagero, Senior Technical Advisor for Laboratory Systems at the Division of Global Health Protection, US CDC Kenya, stressed the importance of increasing trained professionals in biological risk management. 

Jagero called for collaboration with government agencies to develop biosecurity frameworks.

Dr Patrick Nguku, AFENET Regional Technical Coordinator, stressed the need for investment in healthcare infrastructure, disease surveillance systems, and training healthcare workers for early detection and reporting.

Dr Solomon Chollom, a Virologist, highlighted the importance of collaboration between Nigeria and international donors through joint funding mechanisms, advocacy efforts, and transparent fund utilisation.

Dr Gafar Alawode, Chief of Party, Health Financing Governance Projects, advocated for public-private partnerships to bolster epidemic preparedness funding, diversifying funding sources through innovative mechanisms like social impact bonds.

Alawode stressed the urgency of bolstering epidemic preparedness financing mechanisms, addressing bureaucratic inefficiencies, and strengthening domestic resource mobilisation.

Meanwhile, Dr Simeon Onyemaechi, Chairman of the Forum of CEOs of State Social Health Insurance Agencies (SSHIA), emphasised the necessity of adopting a holistic approach to address the funding gap in epidemic preparedness. 

Onyemaechi highlighted the importance of prioritising collaboration among stakeholders, implementing innovative financing mechanisms, and enacting policy reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness efforts.

The Coordinator, Africa Health Budget Network, AHBN, Dr Aminu Magashi, said that the country needs more funding to pay hazard allowances on a monthly and timely basis to the teeming frontline health workers such as medical doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians amongst others. 

Magashi said that as of now, payment was erratic and meagre and not commensurate to the risk of exposure to infections. 

He stressed the urgent need for governments to fortify healthcare systems and improve surveillance and response mechanisms for infectious diseases. 

He emphasised the importance of domestic financing for health initiatives while also advocating for ongoing international support.

In conclusion, investing in epidemic preparedness is essential for Nigeria’s resilience to health emergencies and sustainable development. 

By examining funding mechanisms, identifying gaps, and implementing strategic interventions, Nigeria can ensure a healthier future for its citizens. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the Writer and News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

By Tosin Kolade, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In February 2024, the mass media was awash with reports of the arrest of Bassey Idio for currency racketeering by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The 59-year-old ‘naira trader’ was apprehended following intelligence and surveillance revealing his illicit cash transactions involving both local and foreign currencies.

He was found selling N700,000 new Naira notes, comprising 12 bundles of N500 notes totaling N600,000, and a bundle of N1000 notes amounting to N100,000.

Idio, later confessed to the crime and was convicted.

Before then, in a widely circulated video, Federal lawmaker Ibrahim Abuna, was seen distributing money to a crowd presumed to be his constituents.

Abuna was representing Mafa, Dikwa and Konduga federal constituency of Borno in the House of Representatives.

He demonstrated his generosity by tossing money from a balcony, disregarding the potential risk of a stampede as people fought  to catch the airborne naira notes.

The recipients consisted of young men and women, as well as elderly persons.

Sadly, no arrest or conviction was made since 2021 when the video was made.

On daily basis, the Abuna scenario is repeated in different parts of the country as celebrities and politicians try to outdo one another as they engage in money spraying at social events and even political gathering.

Recently, there was a dramatic twist in this otherwise “normal” behavior among Nigerians as a Federal High Court in Lagos sentenced Idris Okuneye ‘!Bobrisky’, a popular crossdresser, to six months in prison for naira abuse.

Justice Abimbola Awogboro, said Bobrisky as he is commonly known, who was prosecuted by the EFCC, was jailed as a deterrent to those that may engage in naira abuse.

The judge also said that Bobrisky should use his influence to teach people about legal money practices.

She said Bobrisky’s offence is contrary to, and punishable, under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.

Naira abuse has been illegal in Nigeria for a long time, but spraying naira notes or throwing its bundles during social events has been a tradition in Nigeria for many years but unfortunately those in indulge in them have not been brought to book under the Act.

The Act recognses naira abuse to include actions like throwing, stamping, engraving, selling, and mutilating the currency. They carry a penalty of a ₦50,000 fine or six months in prison.

According to the Act, tampering includes impairing, diminishing, or lightening coins or notes, as well as defacing them through stamping, engraving, mutilating, or other forms of deliberate abuse.

It notes that spraying, dancing, or stepping on the naira during social occasions or otherwise is considered an abuse and defacing of the currency, punishable under this Act.

A financial expert, Mr Rilwan Afolabi, says the Act aims to protect the integrity and value of Nigeria’s currency by imposing strict penalties on those who tamper with or abuse it.

According to him, by defining various forms of tampering and abuse, including common practices like spraying or dancing on the naira during social events, the Act seeks to deter such behaviours land promote respect for the currency.

“The inclusion of penalties for hawking, selling, or trading in Naira notes further reinforces the seriousness with which the law treats any actions that could undermine the currency’s stability and legitimacy.

“Overall, the Act reflects the CBN’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s monetary system and ensuring public confidence in the national currency,” he said.

However, many people think the punishment meted to Bobrisky was too harsh and want leniency, while others suggest community service for non-violent crimes like this.

Social activist, Aisha Yesufu, has criticised Bobrisky for admitting guilt to the charge of naira mutilation.

In a write-up on X, formerly known as Twitter, Aisha wondered why Bobrisky quickly admitted guilt.

“Who advised him to plead guilty?”, she screamed, while raising concerns about how spraying money could be equated to mutilating money and why the law is selectively enforced.

She added: “Worst case scenario, I would have advised him to plead ‘No Contest.’

Yesufu raised more posers: “If spraying money is considered mutilation, then what about politicians throwing money at people?

“Mutilation and spraying money how are they the same? Did Bobrisky pick a scissors and started shredding the Naira

“We just have a jungle where anything goes because some people’s morality is offended.

“If Bobrisky has crimes he has committed, prosecute him on those and not this selective prosecutions.”

Also reacting, Deji Adeyanju, a lawyer and social activist, expressed concern over the six-month sentence handed to Bobrisky.

The sentence, delivered without the option of a fine, has raised questions about the severity of punishment for what some perceive as a cultural practice.

While acknowledging the importance of upholding the law, Adeyanju highlighted Bobrisky’s status as a first-time offender and his pledge to utilise his platform to raise awareness against Naira mutilation.

He urged the courts to consider the cultural context surrounding such offenses and emphasised the need for extensive public sensitisation before prosecution.

The issue of selective enforcement was also raised, as Adeyanju questioned why he was singled out for prosecution when others were reportedly engaged in similar acts during the event in question.

He cautioned against the perception of bias in law enforcement and called for a fair and impartial approach to justice.

In light of these concerns, Adeyanju proposed an alternative approach to handling such crimes as Naira mutilation, advocating community service as an ppropriate form of punishment.

He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights while urging security agencies to consider alternative measures for addressing such offenses.

Adeyanju said that the ongoing debate surrounding Bobrisky’s sentence underscored broader discussions about cultural practices, law enforcement and the balance between tradition and legal compliance in Nigerian society.

As stakeholders continue to weigh in on the matter, it remains to be seen how authorities will address the complexities surrounding Naira mutilation and similar offenses in the future.

Also, they call for comprehensive campaigns on the importance of preserving the integrity of naira.

Such initiatives, they say, could help instill a culture of respect for the currency and discourage behaviours that undermine its integrity and value. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

By Abujah Racheal, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In the lush fields of Nasarawa State, 43-year-old Mrs Mariamu Jubril was tirelessly nurturing crops that sustained her family.

However, a silent battle raged – one that would test her resilience.

Jubril recounts how it all began with a persistent fever accompanied by bone aches and fatigue, which she initially dismissed as a common sickness.

“However, as days stretched into weeks, my condition worsened.

“Misunderstood to be typhoid and malaria, my struggle took a perilous turn, as the true culprit, Lassa fever, silently ravaged my body,” she narrated.

It was when she returned to Keffi from Lafia that laboratory diagnosis unveiled the harsh reality.

“The diagnosis sent shockwaves through the medical staff, who recognised the gravity of my condition.

“With treatment underway, I waged, however, a battle against the relentless virus that threatened to snatch away my life,” she says.

According to Jubril,  the illness impaired her hearing.

“Undeterred, I refused to succumb to despair. With the same determination that fueled my days on the fields.

”I sought a solution, only to be confronted by the harsh reality of my financial limitations,” she adds.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Lassa fever is a hemorrhagic fever that causes serious damage to various organs, reducing the body’s ability to function.

The virus is contagious and can spread from person to person via bodily fluids, including saliva, urine, blood and vomit.

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Nigeria faced a significant outbreak of Lassa fever in 2023, recording 4,702 suspected cases, including 877 confirmed cases and 152 deaths between epidemiological weeks 1 and 15.

The virus is endemic in Nigeria and some other parts of West Africa. It is primarily transmitted by the multimammate rat.

Public health experts are worried that responding to the outbreak is challenging due to concurrent emergencies.

The experts explain that the symptoms vary, and diagnosis can be difficult, with many cases being asymptomatic or mild but dangerous.

They emphasise that laboratory testing is necessary for confirmation, noting that cases have been reported in states bordering Cameroon and Benin.

However, regional and global risks are considered low, as transmission occurs mainly through contact with contaminated food or household items, with minimal human-to-human transmission.

This year (2024) marks 55 years since the identification of the virus causing Lassa fever in the village of Lassa, in Borno State, Nigeria.

Nigeria, like many other countries, has had  public health crises in recent years.

From outbreaks of diseases such as Ebola,  typhoid fever and malaria, to the ongoing battle against Lassa fever and other illnesses, the country has had to confront the challenges of epidemic preparedness head-on.

But beyond the headlines that often focus on the immediate response to these outbreaks, there is a deeper story to be told about the country’s efforts to improve its overall epidemic preparedness and response capabilities.

The country has made significant strides in strengthening its public health infrastructure and building capacity to effectively detect, respond to, and prevent future epidemics.

One key aspect of the country’s epidemic preparedness efforts is the establishment of the NCDC in 2011.

The agency serves as the country’s national public health institute responsible for coordinating the surveillance, detection, and response to infectious disease outbreaks.

Through its network of state-level epidemiologists and laboratories, NCDC has been able to rapidly respond to disease outbreaks and prevent spread.

In addition to establishment of NCDC, Nigeria has  invested in training healthcare workers and strengthening its healthcare system to better respond to public health emergencies.

It has established emergency response teams and developed contingency plans for a range of potential epidemics.

Furthermore, the country has worked to improve its disease surveillance and reporting systems, allowing for more timely and accurate detection of outbreaks.

It has also implemented electronic reporting systems and established a national database for tracking disease trends, enabling public health officials to quickly identify and respond to potential threats.

In spite of these advancements, public health experts still say challenges remain in the country’s epidemic preparedness.

They attribute these challenges to funding constraints, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and security concerns.

They also cite environmental changes and global factors, which contribute to the unpredictable nature of emerging diseases, as obstacles to the country’s ability to effectively respond to epidemics.

Dr Ishaku Akyala, Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases and Public Health Epidemiology in Nasarawa State, says there are limited public health awareness, weak disease surveillance systems, and coordination and communication challenges.

According to Akyala, addressing these issues will require sustained investment, collaboration and commitment from various stakeholders to strengthen public health infrastructure, improve healthcare services, enhance disease surveillance and promote public health awareness.

“By overcoming these challenges, our nation can enhance its epidemic preparedness and response capabilities to better protect the health of its population,” he says.

Dr Jide Idris, the Director-General of NCDC, expresses concern over the recurring pattern of preventable diseases claiming lives in the country in spite of the nation’s awareness of disease patterns and their seasonal occurrences.

Idris emphasises the importance of preventive measures.

“It is better to prevent these diseases from happening  than waiting for them to occur.

“Despite the country’s knowledge of disease patterns, preventable diseases continue to claim lives annually, highlighting the urgency of proactive measures,” he says.

He outlines the agency’s strategic roadmap, focusing on leading preparedness, detection, and response to public health emergencies.

He stresses government’s responsibility to prioritise citizens protection and disease prevention, underscoring the importance of timely detection and proper response when diseases occur.

He emphasises the need for collaboration between the federal and state governments, as disease control efforts primarily take place at the state and local government levels.

He advocates a holistic One Health Approach involving sectors beyond healthcare, such as agriculture and environment, recognising the interconnectedness of human and animal health.

Highlighting the zoonotic nature of diseases such as Ebola, Monkeypox, Lassa fever, Yellow fever and COVID-19, Idris says there is the need for multi-sectoral partnerships to effectively combat the diseases.

He notes ongoing collaborations with health commissioners and the Nigerian Governors Forum, and stresses the importance of understanding social determinants in different states.

He believes that addressing health security requires substantial investment and tailored research.

He points out disconnect between sub-national entities and the Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), emphasising the need for strengthened partnerships at the state level.

A Nigerian scientist and former Vice-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Prof. Tomori Oyewale, urges  multi-dimensional approach to epidemic preparedness, integrating research, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement.

According to  him, the initiative should aim to go beyond surface discussions and evaluate Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, policy framework and community resilience in the face of potential epidemics.

Regarding strategies, he suggests comprehensive research, stakeholder engagement, public discourse, advocacy, resource allocation and international collaboration to effectively address health security threats.

Analysts are convinced that nobody prays for emergencies, but emphasise that preparedness is crucial to tackling emergencies.

They believe that citizens desire a strong emergency response system capable of efficiently and swiftly managing outbreaks and critical situations.

NCDC’s budget allocation for the fiscal year 2024 highlights key shifts in funding priorities aimed at bolstering the country’s disease prevention and response capabilities.

The total sum allocated to the agency in the 2024 stands at N4.356 billion, which stakeholders in the health sector say, did not indicate a strong commitment to safeguarding public health amidst evolving global health challenges.

Among the notable changes reflected in the budget are increase in specific budget lines dedicated to critical areas of disease prevention and response.

Procurement and distribution of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical supplies for the National Strategic Stockpile witnessed a significant boost, with an additional N30 million allocated from 2023 to 2024.

The increase underscores the heightened focus on enhancing stockpiling capabilities to support disease detection, prevention, and response efforts nationwide.

Similarly, sustained efforts in combating antimicrobial resistance are evident through a five million Naira increase in funding for antimicrobial resistance surveillance in sentinel sites across the country.

This augmentation, health economists argue, did not reaffirm the country’s commitment to monitoring and addressing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, a critical aspect of public health preparedness.

While investments in certain areas recorded increases, the budget also reflected strategic adjustments and new priorities.

In spite of maintaining the same budget allocation for equipping the NCDC headquarters with communication and response infrastructure, introduction of new budget lines shows a forward-looking approach to strengthening Nigeria’s public health infrastructure.

Of particular significance is introduction of interventions to develop capacity for public health informatics, emphasising the importance of harnessing data analytics, modelling, and forecasting to enhance emergency preparedness and response.

Additionally, allocation of N95 million for strengthening subnational health security shows the imperative of bolstering health security at subnational level, complementing efforts at the national level.

Furthermore, establishment of new budget lines dedicated to training, capacity building, and subnational emergency response highlights a proactive stance in fortifying the country’s readiness to combat emerging health threats effectively.

However, amid the strategic realignments and increased investments in key areas, reductions in funding for dissemination of surveillance outputs and  digitalisation of disease surveillance shows potential shifts in priorities.

Nigeria’s epidemic preparedness demands a concerted effort encompassing diverse stakeholders, innovative strategies, and sustained investment to safeguard public health and mitigate the impact of emerging diseases.

As the country continues to navigate the complexities of public health emergencies, concerted efforts to improve epidemic preparedness are essential for protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.

By investing in strong public health infrastructure, training healthcare workers and enhancing disease surveillance systems, the country will be taking important steps toward building a more resilient and responsive healthcare system that can effectively address the threats of future epidemics. (END)

***If used, please credit the writer and the agency **

By Mark Longyen

The United States government, through its Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), on Friday, in Abuja, donated some laboratory equipment to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

Dr Farah Husain, Programme Director, CDC Division, Global Health Protection, who donated the equipment, explained that they were the U.S. government’s efforts to help Nigeria address the challenges of disease outbreaks.

The items, which included biosafety cabinets, sample collection materials, essential laboratory equipment, and personal protective equipment, were received by Dr Jide Idris, Director-General, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

The CDC Program Director said that the equipment would help to sustain the quality and high outputs of Nigeria’s laboratories.

She assured Nigeria of the U.S.’s commitment to help develop response capacity in protecting the people against disease outbreaks.

“The U.S. government, via the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is proud to donate equipment and supplies to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention to support emergency response laboratory activities.

“The United States is committed to working hand-in-hand with Nigeria to build response capacity and protect the health of our peoples.

“Today, we gather to celebrate a concrete example of the strong partnership between the United States and Nigeria,” she said.

The U.S. official also noted that Nigeria was facing several disease outbreaks, such as Lassa fever, diphtheria, meningitis, stressing that laboratory scientists played a vital role in quickly detecting and confirming cases for effective outbreak response.

“The increased volume of laboratory work created by these simultaneous outbreaks creates a pressing need for additional resources. Together, with laboratories as the cornerstone of our collaborative work, we can quickly and effectively prevent and respond to outbreaks.

“Additionally, we have included large amounts of personal protective equipment to safeguard the health and safety of laboratory workers. Whether in the subnational labs, health facilities, or the communities they serve, this donation will directly help save lives,” Husain said.

Responding, the NCDC director general, said the gesture would go a long way to boost the country’s disease detection and capability ability and assured the U.S. government that the equipment would be judiciously put to use.

Idris underscored the importance of the Nigeria’s collaboration with the U.S. government, adding that no government could fund health system alone because it was very expensive.

“No government can fund health system alone and that’s why we require this kind of collaboration from different partners. The idea and the goal is to reduce the incidences.

“What concerns us mostly here is health security. This is key because a nation’s mandate to the people is to ensure that the health of the people is sacrosanct in terms of preventing the people  from catching any disease.

“And if so, where that provision or activity is not adequate, to ensure that you properly detect whatever disease that has occurred, and at the same time respond to it,” the NCDC boss said.

According to him, the Federal Government is funding the sector, but the funding may not necessarily be adequate, that is why the health system is very expensive.

He said that in terms of global health security, one of the major focus was collaboration and partnerships, both internationally, nationally and sub-nationally.

This, he explained, was because everybody was coming in with different expertise and none would necessarily have all the expertise needed to boost productivity.

“The goal is to achieve our objective to reduce incidents of disease.

“And, where you cannot stop that we respond adequately, so that we can bring down the effect of any disease that is the essence here.

“So collaborations, partnerships are key essentials of health security,” Idris added.

 The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the donation, which took place at the National Reference Laboratory, underscores the U.S. and Nigeria’s shared commitment towards providing healthcare in Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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By Martha Agas, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Across the globe, there is growing awareness regarding the need to transit from fossil fuel- dependent energy to sustainable, renewable sources.

However, to achieve this, there are sets of critical minerals that need to be supplied regularly to the global market.

They are the agents that will make renewable energy technologies to become affordable and sustainable. Africa has these resources in abundance.

The critical energy transition minerals include copper, lithium, nickel and cobalt.

Among these minerals, Nigeria is blessed with Lithium, currently mined in Nassarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Ekiti and Cross River.

Lithium is an essential component for the manufacturing of rechargeable batteries used in electric vehicles, electronics, and grid energy storage.

The increasing demand for renewable energy sources is expected to open up new opportunities that could spark innovation among the nation’s policymakers.

However, these minerals come with their own set of pros and cons. According to the UN Environment Programme, they bring about environmental, social, economic, geopolitical, trade, and partnership challenges and opportunities.

Experts say that exploring the opportunities require good management of the resources, including their production and processing.

As part of efforts to contribute to the development of these mineral resources, the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) advocated increased investment in critical minerals during its 59th Annual International Conference and Exhibition (AICE), held recently in Jos.

The conference, with the theme ‘Emerging Global Perspectives, Trends, and Sustainable Development of Minerals and Energy Resources, aimed to showcase Nigeria’s renewable energy potential to international investors and engage governments.

The AICE hosted major players in the mining industry, locally and internationally, engaging in discussions on significant developments in the mining sector, exploring investment opportunities, and charting the way forward.

The President of NMGS, Prof. Akinade Olatunji, said the platform was to further showcase the immense potential within the geoscience and mining spheres to the government at all levels in Nigeria.

The idea, he said was to encourage them to explore more opportunities for the nation.

In a communiqué signed by Olatunji, the society called for the optimal development of iron and steel sector to expedite Nigeria’s industrialisation.

It stated that as part of efforts to open opportunities in the mineral and energy sector, there is a need to implement a mineral governance structure with supportive policies, along with the inclusion of all stakeholders.

This, it says, is to foster socio-economic development, environmental sustainability, and cooperation in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM)-dependent communities.

The society advocated the establishment of a commercial intervention strategy that facilitates easy market access, provides trade platforms, encourages financial inclusion, and ensures the elimination of collateral issues that impede access to funds.

It stated that capacity building at all levels, research and development and value chain training should be encouraged.

“Implementation of policies aimed at value chain addition in the minerals and energy sectors to boost wealth creation and increase GDP.

“Career advancement, skill and entrepreneurship development specific to the geosciences and mining practices are critical,” it said.

The society encouraged the adoption and application of innovations in information technology to develop resource management strategies.

One of the innovations introduced at the conference is the use of digital platforms to generate and share geoscience data used in extractive industries, natural hazard monitoring and management, among others.

Experts in the sector have established that it is expensive to generate geoscience data, and Nigeria does not have the required technology for that, so exploring data sharing is expedient.

In a world that is fast becoming a village, according to the NMGS president, data sharing could help alleviate the situation through platforms like the Deep-time Digital Earth Programme (DDE).

DDE is a big science programme designed to facilitate innovation in understanding the earth’s evolution and applications.

It also seeks to promote Sustainable Development Goals, by utilising big data analytics, internet cloud computing, data mining, machine learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Olatunji explained that DDE connects all the data bases available across the globe and designed to provide better result and benefits for the work of geoscientists.

“ The platform is so unique to work across borders, and creates a very robust environment of data execution.

“The open-source nature of the DDE and the infrastructure it guarantees also provides budding geodata scientists on the continent opportunities to acquire appropriate skill sets in data interpretation and management,” he said.

An expert, Dr Henry Davies, listed the lack of a coordinated, centralised geo-database and limited access to quality geo sciences data as significant challenges.

He added that duplication of geoscience data; inadequate information sharing among stakeholders and poor data quality among other factors, were part of the challenges, which the DDE platform could help address.

Similarly, another expert, Prof. Mike Stephenson, urged Africa to leverage geoscience data to attract increased mining investment on the continent.

He said this was particularly given the global upsurge in energy transition, which has heightened the demand for critical minerals predominantly found in Africa.

He emphasised the need to generate geoscience data in order to accurately assess the natural resources within the region.

Stephenson, who is the DDE Director for Europe and Middle East, said data would help Africa get the best out of the resources that its nations choose to export.

According to him, geoscience data is crucial in transforming natural resources into sustainable economic development that benefits all.

“With appropriate controls, it can also conserve and enhance the natural environment in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “ he said.

He said DDE programme, initiated in Beijing in 2019, could be deployed by various African governments, institutions and academics for their researches and surveys.

Similarly, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr Dele Ayanleke, called for safe mining practices and improved technology to reposition the sector.

Ayanleke urged the government and stakeholders to invest in affordable and environment- friendly mining technologies, such as mercury-free processing methods and efficient ore extraction techniques, to develop the sector.

He said that unlocking the wealth creation potential of ASM requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses factors such as governance, market access, finance, among other, while calling for the formalisation of ASM.

According to him, formalisation is crucial to enabling ASM operators to gain access to legal rights, financial services, and markets, while ensuring environmental sustainability and compliance with labour standards.

The MAN official urged the government to support ASM cooperatives and associations in accessing formal markets, negotiating fair prices, and meeting quality standards.

At the conference, the gemstone industry was identified as a potential source of livelihood with numerous opportunities for geo-scientists.

Dr Janet Adeyemi, the President of Women In Mining In Nigeria (WIMIN said Nigeria has gemstones spread across its landmass, adding that the industry provided opportunities for wealth creation.

Adeyemi said that the entrepreneurial opportunities in mining had the potential to industrialise Nigeria and Africa.

She said that manufacturing opportunities for gemstone and jewelry processing equipment, lapidary equipment, among others would provide an expanded basis for a potential bottom-up industrialisation process in the gemstone and jewelry sector.

“Such new industries in the country could also help to offset risks of declining revenue from fossil fuel exports while diversifying national revenue streams, “she said.

According to her, identifying opportunities in the industry requires a comprehensive understanding of the market and the ability to recognise emerging trends and demands.

She recommended that Nigeria should establish a venture capital fund for mining, gemstone processing and marketing.

She added that a good regulatory environment can attract investment in the sector and create a conducive business environment for mining companies, thereby triggering opportunities in the sector.

According to Adeyemi, bridging the gaps between the local industry in Nigeria and the global market requires urgently building the capacity of local industry operators.

While these opportunities abound in the industry, stakeholders have also called for gender inclusion in the sector.

According to Dr Hannah Wozah, of Geology Department, University of Jos, promoting gender equality in the Nigeria’s energy and mineral resources industry will drive sustainable development and economic growth.

She said it would contribute to addressing systemic barriers and promote a culture of inclusivity through gender inclusion policies in the sector.

Experts say that there are also unexplored opportunities in wealth creation in sectors such as medical geology, geo-tourism and geo heritage.

Stakeholders hope that government will play an active role in fostering public-private partnerships and investing in manpower development which is pivotal to unlocking the potential of these untapped sectors.

They also call for the optimal development of lithium in line with value addition standards before exporting it.

Given the dire need to diversify government’s revenue earning options, it is important that deliberate efforts are geared towards maximising the opportunities inherent in every sector including minerals. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

By Chijioke Okoronkwo, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The discourse on safety of genetically engineered crops categorised as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) is heating up globally, including Nigeria.

Just recently, the Federal Government approved the commercial release and open cultivation of a new maize variety, Tela Maize, a genetically modified maize.

The development of Tela maize was led by researchers at the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, who say it resists armyworm, stem borers and tolerates moderate drought.

At the commercial release of Tela Maize, Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, said the crop was a remarkable step at enhancing agricultural productivity to ensure food sufficiency in Nigeria.

“It exemplifies our commitment to harnessing the power of biotechnology in addressing pressing agricultural challenges, enhancing crop resilience, and improving the livelihood of our farmers and citizens.

“It also strengthens our position in the global agricultural landscape, fostering economic stability and opening new avenues for trade and export,” he said.

Still from a government’s standpoint, Dr Agnes Asagbra, the Director-General, National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), recently said the pursuit of effective biosafety management and inclusive engagement was paramount.

According to her, the agency recognises the importance of diverse perspectives and expertise in shaping comprehensive solutions to biosafety challenges.

“We have established robust frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to ensure adherence to national and international biosafety regulations and standards,” she said.

Worthy of note here is that Mexico, the birth place of maize, has banned genetically modified corn which it says is not safe for human consumption and threatens the biodiversity.

Some other countries in Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas have also banned the importation and cultivation of GMOs over safety concerns.

The skeptics of GMOs in Nigeria posit that the science and technology backing transgenic crops is not clear enough.

They express worries on the inherent hazards GMOs pose to biodiversity, food safety, and the health of Nigerians.

More so, they argue that GM crops contain chemicals that could predispose humans to deadly ailments, damage soil health and phase out traditional seeds as both cannot co-exist.

At the forefront of the kick against GMOs, is the Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research (CEFSAR), a Non-Governmental Organisation.

CEFSAR has consistently urged the Federal Government to be mindful of the acceptance and deployment of genetically engineered crops, categorised as GMOs due to safety concerns.

Prof. Qristtuberg Amua, CEFSAR’s Executive Director, said that Nigeria did not have the requisite laboratory infrastructure to test and verify the safety of the GMOs products in the food industry.

He argued that the regulatory framework had no provision for labeling GMOs which invariably would deny consumers of the right to make knowledgeable decision of what to eat to and what not to eat.

The professor contented that GMOs were laced with chemicals which could lead to extinction of indigenous crops and a dependency on chemical-intensive farming methods.

He said the primary objectives of CEFSAR were to preserve native seed varieties, research sustainable agriculture practices and promote agro-ecological farming systems.

“Others are to support local and indigenous farming communities, and educate farmers and stakeholders in the immediate society.

“We first of all begin with all those who consume GMOs in the form of modern crops that are being promoted in this country.

“And also, if you look at the venue of this engagement, it is the Federal Ministry of Justice, and a lot of the intrusion that is coming through GMOs is coming through policies and laws.

“And a lot of these policies pass through clearance from this ministry.

“So, we believe that by initiating this conversation, we are attracting attention into the concerns of GMOs,” he said.

Amua said he was hopeful that the advocacy would gain momentum because important stakeholders would begin to talk about it and draw the attention of the government and consumers to the dangers inherent in pushing for GMOs.

According to the academic, food security has an intricate nexus with national security as a hungry man is angry man.

“We have observed that parts of issues of national security are born out of aggression between individuals or groups.

“But beyond that, a crime is fueled when the larger population is hungry; they don’t get food to eat and that translates to poverty.”

The don said that in the present context, today, it was being said that food was scare in Nigeria and it was because certain food production areas in the country had been attacked consistently for over a decade.

He said the attacks on food production had displaced people and initiated food scarcity.

“Because they cannot farm, we have food scarcity; so you can see, on one hand, national insecurity produces food insecurity.

“Now, take a reverse of it; because there is national food insecurity now, it is going to perpetrate further our national insecurity, in the sense that you have people taken away from their farms.

“A lot of farmers have been chased into camps.”

He said that CEFSAR’s observations indicated that there had been a lot of misinformation or deception targeted at some people in government—those who were at critical point of driving policy.

According to him, the essence of the campaign is to attract attention and partner with government and in its capacity on education of the citizens on issues concerning GMOs.

“I am a professor, a scientist. I have conducted some of these researches myself.

“So, I believe that with me involved in this conversation, the people in government who genuinely have been misinformed or deceived, will pick interest and begin to ask the relevant questions,” he said.

Sharing similar sentiments, Dr Nnimmo Bassey, Director, Health of Mother Earth Foundation, said there was need to stick to agro-ecological methods of food production.

Bassey said that available data showed that 70 per cent of small scale farmers fed the world through agro-ecological principles and techniques.

“So why do one want to jump into something that produces your food in a system with so many uncertainties?–a system that laces your food with pesticides, chemicals and insecticides.

“We need to ban them; we don’t need GMOs. Nigeria and indeed, Africa, has all it takes to grow food, to produce food that can feed our people and also export to other countries,” he said.

Deserving no less attention, Dr Segun Adebayo, Director, Operations, CEFSAR, argued that GM crops could cause increased pesticide runoff into water sources; thereby posing a huge dangers to the soil, human health and the environment.

Adebayo said there was a correspondence between the consumption of GMOs and the surge in health issues such as cancer and organ failure, particularly among young persons.

According to him, everybody who eats is a stakeholder in the business of food.

“You are what you eat; you have to be concerned about what you eat; that is the reason we are having this engagement.

“The first step to being healthy is your food,” he said.

Adebayo urged Nigerians to be wary of GMOs and promote the natural food and stressing the imperative of creating a balance of knowledge to equip the public with the opportunity with consumption choices.

As the GMOs controversy rages, critical stakeholders hold that Nigerian scientists should intensify research on transgenic crops rather than depending on foreign research outcomes for what we consume. (NANFesatures)

By Muhyideen Jimoh

In 2003, the World Values Survey reported that Nigeria was home to world’s happiest people.

The study, which was carried out over a period of three years showed that Nigeria beat no fewer than 65 countries to claim the top spot.

More than two decades after, the 2024 World’s Happiness Report released on March 20 to mark the International Day of Happiness ranked Nigeria 102 happiest country of 143 countries surveyed globally.

The report released in partnership with Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and the WHR’s Editorial Board scored Nigeria 4.881 points in its latest 2024 survey.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria’s happiness scores has remained below 5 points since 2020, fluctuating between 4.552 to 5.268 points.

The report factored self-reported life satisfaction evaluations alongside a 6-point metrics like GDP per capita, social support networks, health expectancy, freedom, generosity, and levels of corruption to determine national happiness rankings.

Why has Nigeria’s performance continued to decline over the years? Experts offer insights.

Dr Christopher Piwuna, Consultant Psychiatrist, Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) believes the ability of government to improve the welfare of Nigerians will greatly boost their happiness level.

“In 2003 Nigeria was number one worldwide on happiness assessment, but now we are 102, this is not too good for the nation.

“We have really gone backward though life expectancy has improved within the country.

“The rate of poverty in the land has impacted negatively on the happiness ranking of the country,” he said.

Similarly, Safiya Ojo, General Medical Practitioner, Wuse General Hospital, Abuja, said being happy could help ones general well-being and lifespan.

Aisha Bubah, Counseling Psychologist, Network for Psychosocial Support, Africa (NPS-Africa), said there was the need for Nigerians to take care of their mental health to avoid depression.

“If one is in a happy state, it means less troubles, less stress and better well-being. Conversely if one is unhappy there will be depression, suicide, anxiety, and stress disorder.

“Depression is a significant problem that has affected some youths which has made them to be drug addicts.

“We need to create time for relaxation and look beyond the economic situation of the country; we need to focus on the positives in every bad situation,” Bubah said.

Interestingly while Nigeria is on the slide on the World’s Happiness report, Finland was in March, 2024 crowned the world’s happiest country for a seventh consecutive year.

According to the Finnish Happiness Institute (FHI) study, when asking people living in Finland what makes them happy, Finns always mention proximity to nature and the opportunities it offers for recreation and relaxation.

“In Finland, you are never more than a 10-minute walk from a park or forest. Clean water, unpolluted air and unspoiled nature greatly contribute to wellbeing and happiness – and nurture creativity” it said in a report.

Johanna Jäkälä, Executive Director, Finland Promotion Services, Business Finland, says the anti-stress lifestyle, outstanding government and modern facilities help boost the happy lifestyle of the Finnish people.

“The anti-stress lifestyle also influences the Finnish work culture. Finland is a country of low hierarchies, and work-life balance is highly valued.

“When people come here, they also get access to a kind of lifestyle which is pretty unique.

“We like to think that happiness is good for business and happy employees are productive employees,” he said.

“In Helsinki it is completely normal to leave the baby outside, obviously with a baby monitor and if possible by the window, so you can see the stroller while shopping or having coffee,” Jennifer De Paola, a social psychologist and expert on Finnish happiness said.

Elisabet Lahti, PhD, author, researcher and founder of Sisu Lab. stressed the importance of adequate security and working in an egalitarian society for  citizens to feel relaxed and happy.

“In a well-functioning, fair and equal society, people can worry less and concentrate on living their lives.

“Poor life decisions or bad luck don’t necessarily have to mean falling too far behind. To feel safe is one of our primal needs and if we’re not safe, we’re not able to relax into co-creation and innovation,” she said.

Experts say that the Nigerian government can do a lot more to make Nigerians feel happier and more productive.

They say this can be achieved through heavy investment in infrastructure/social amenities and the implementation of sound economic policies.

Mr Andrew Mamedu, Country Director, Action Aid Nigeria (AAN), a social justice NGO, said President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, if implemented properly could give hope to the poor and boost Nigerians’ productivity.

“The 8-Point Agenda encompass critical areas such as food security, ending poverty, economic growth, job creation, access to capital, improved security, a fair playing field, rule of law, and the fight against corruption.

“They reflect the aspirations of the citizens for a more inclusive and prosperous society.” he said.

Experts opine that there is a nexus between the Tinubu’s ‘renewed hope’ 8-point agenda and the World Happiness index 6-point parameters which are all geared towards a better economy and society.

They point to the path to the renewal of Nigerians’ fast-eroding happiness. (NANFeatures) (www.nannews.ng)

** If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

By Tunde Rahman
Delivering a keynote address at a well-attended National Spokespersons’ Summit and Awards on March 26 in Abuja, former Director-General of the Nigeria Television Authority, Prof. Tonnie Iredia, was excellent as he articulated what should constitute the critical success factors in the work of a spokesperson.

The summit with the theme “Change Narrative, Change Society” was organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and National Orientation. Participants at the summit included communication experts, top journalists, scholars and other dignitaries.

A spokesperson must build trust and credibility through transparent and truthful messaging, Iredia said. Such a person must place premium on facts. “A spokesperson must also employ clarity in his messaging.

There should be no ambiguity. Such a person must deploy positive narratives. The spokesperson must be detailed and persuasive and make sure that he or she is first with the information to avoid speculation. Feedback is important and must be prioritized,” he pointed out.

An erudite scholar, lawyer, administrator and communication expert, Iredia knows his onions and has earned his stripes. He worked with the then Midwest Television in Benin-City (now Nigerian Television Authority) where he rose to become Manager, News and Current Affairs.

It would appear the former NTA DG had the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, a seasoned communication consultant and media mogul in mind, in his brilliant and lucid diagnosis. This is because in his handling of the Federal Government’s information and public communication machinery, Malagi parades all those essentials of effective communication brilliantly encapsulated by Iredia.

Malagi is humble, cool, calm, not loud, factual, truthful and evinces believability in his appearance, carriage and conduct.

In his speech at the summit, Malagi himself identified the imperatives of some of the earlier mentioned principles behind effective public communication.

He said Nigeria is a diversely blessed and vibrant country, grapples with the need to create a cohesive national identity; one that transcends ethnicity, religion, and political affiliations, and as such “crafting a compelling national narrative becomes paramount as we strive to live up to our vast potential.”

According to him, as communication professionals, the spokesperson must be aware he plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions, disseminating accurate information, and fostering trust.

“Indeed, the nation’s peace, stability, growth, and development can only be attained by how we communicate. We must recognize the critical role that effective communication plays in shaping narratives, building trust, and fostering understanding.”

Both Iredia and Malagi harped on the significance of trust in public communication or indeed in any communication for that matter.

The Minister of Information puts this succinctly: “The future of communication points toward technology, but for technology to make a meaningful impact, it must be anchored on trust. Trust remains a critical element in building relationships; be it at personal, group, and even community levels.

“As spokespersons, we need to make conscious efforts to build trust and restore hope wherever we are. Building and maintaining trust must be a collective responsibility. For trust to have value, it must be anchored on authenticity, transparency, and consistency.”

Like Iredia, who stressed that both external and internal publics are important and that all stakeholders should be carried along because a disgruntled person within the system can endanger the messaging, Malagi also spoke about collaboration and inclusivity at the summit.

“The current trend of communication is driven by technology. While technology allows us to personalize messages like never before, collaboration enables us to build consensus among colleagues, stakeholders, and experts.”

Indeed, Malagi not only believes in his precepts, he practices them. He tries to carry everyone along in an all-inclusive manner. That he acts out his preaching is evident enough in the way and manner he carries on as Information Minister, which is perhaps why he is achieving bounteous positive results.

For instance, as he stepped out as minister he constituted a National Communication Team headed by him and comprising the Information, Strategy, Media and Publicity Managers in the Presidency and Director-Generals of Information and Communication agencies under him to build consensus and synergy and promote collaboration on the important task of disseminating the policies and initiatives of the government and its agencies under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. The team will also track post-messaging feedback.

Recently, the National Communication Team was on tour of Kano, Jigawa and Kaduna states in the North-West. In Jigawa, the team visited wheat, millet and maize farms, an example of dry season farming, which raised the likelihood of the state meeting the expected national targets for domestic consumption and exports. The team also engaged in an interactive session with the farmers, millers, and other important stakeholders in dry season farming in the state.

In Kano, after meeting and exchanging ideas with senior journalists and social media influencers in the North, who had converged on the city, the team returned to also interface with the business community in that commercial city on the government’s economic programmes, their impressions, expectations and challenges.

Arriving in Kaduna to attend the annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the NTA and Voice of Nigeria and attended by prominent Islamic scholars and Emirs from the North, the team opted to return to Abuja by rail so it could inspect the facilities at the train station in Kaduna and interview some of the operators and passengers using the train.

The Information Minister’s speeches on these visits were also remarkable. The speeches reek of the passion and enthusiasm he takes to the job.

Speaking when he paid a courtesy call on Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, he said: “We are here in Kano as representatives of His Excellency, Mr. President, to meet with Nigerians, from various walks of life.

“The President has tasked us with engaging with various groups of stakeholders, to share and explain what his administration has been doing to make life better for all Nigerians, and to ask for patience and understanding in the face of the economic challenges we are experiencing.”

A day after at a stakeholders’ meeting with the business leaders in Kano, he highlighted the achievements recorded so far by the Tinubu Administration to make Nigeria a better place to live, and do business and investment. He said the President is committed and has shown rare leadership on many fronts.

On why the team decided to return to Abuja by train, the minister said: “The National Communications Team embarked on a train journey back to Abuja from Kaduna after our stakeholders engagement in Jigawa, Kano and Kaduna.

“We had a fruitful interaction with commuters, welcoming their enthusiasm and noting their feedback. We reiterated the commitment of our administration to securing the lives and properties of travellers, safeguarding our rail infrastructure and improving the quality of service delivery.”

-Rahman is a Senior Presidential Aide