NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
MenFive vaccine revolutionises meningitis prevention in Africa, says GAVI

MenFive vaccine revolutionises meningitis prevention in Africa, says GAVI

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By Abujah Racheal

The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (GAVI) says  MenFive® is poised to revolutionise meningitis prevention efforts in Africa.

Ms Cassandra Quintanilla, Senior Programme Manager, Vaccine Implementation at Gavi (Meningitis programme lead), said this in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria(NAN), on Monday in Abuja.

NAN reports that MenFive® is approved by WHO for use in individuals one through 85 years of age and will initially be available for use in reactive vaccine campaigns for meningitis outbreaks.

Quintanilla said that unlike its predecessors, MenFive® boasts the remarkable advantage of remaining stable outside of the cold chain for up to 12 weeks, making it a game-changer for regions with limited refrigeration resources.

She said that this innovation promised greater flexibility in vaccine delivery, particularly in remote areas where maintaining a cold chain is challenging.

“The MenFive vaccine, prequalified by the World Health Organization (WHO) after extensive clinical trials, targets the five main serogroups of meningococcal meningitis prevalent in Africa, including serogroup X, previously unprotected by available vaccines.

“Its efficacy and safety have been demonstrated through comprehensive studies conducted across different countries, including Mali, India, the US, and the Gambia,” she said.

She said that one of MenFive’s key features was  its suitability for use in a controlled temperature chain (CTC), which had been well-received by healthcare workers for its ability to streamline vaccine distribution and reduce logistical burdens.

Additionally, she said it was multidose vial configuration facilitates easier storage and transportation, ensuring a more efficient supply of doses.

“Gavi, along with its partners such as WHO, UNICEF, and local health authorities, prioritizes the allocation of MenFive based on epidemiological data and risk assessments, ensuring equitable distribution to high-risk populations.

“The introduction of MenFive aligns with broader efforts to transition from reactive vaccination to preventive immunisation strategies, paving the way for sustained protection against meningitis outbreaks,” she said.

According to her, as part of a comprehensive approach to address vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, Gavi collaborates with various stakeholders to promote public awareness and build trust in vaccines, crucial for maximizing MenFive’s impact.

Ultimately, she said that the introduction of MenFive® represents a significant step toward achieving the global goal of defeating Meningitis by 2030, offering hope for a future where meningitis outbreaks were effectively controlled and prevented.

NAN reports that Nigeria has received one million doses of MenFive vaccine, a meningitis vaccine, from the Gavi-funded global stockpile.

Meningitis is an infection of the brain and spinal cord-surrounding membranes known as the meninges.

Gavi said Nigeria is the first country to receive the new vaccine, adding that the shipment delivered by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)

Gavi said the vaccine was developed through a 13-year collaboration between PATH and Serum Institute of India, with support from the UK government’s foreign, commonwealth and development office. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

 

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

UNICEF calls for unified action on universal health coverage challenges

UNICEF calls for unified action on universal health coverage challenges

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By Reporters

The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged stakeholders to intensify efforts in tackling the systemic challenges hindering the achievement of universal health coverage.

Dr Ijeoma Agbo, UNICEF Health Specialist, made this plea during a two-day media dialogue held in Ibadan.

The event, themed “Changing the Narrative on Child Mortality through Health Insurance,” was organised by UNICEF in partnership with the Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme (OYSHIA).

Agbo, addressing the gathering on “Access to Health Insurance as a Way to Achieve Universal Health Coverage for all in Nigeria,” emphasised the financial protection health insurance provides by alleviating the burden of out-of-pocket expenses for individuals and families.

Highlighting the role of health insurance in ensuring equitable distribution of healthcare resources, Agbo stressed its importance in guaranteeing quality healthcare services for all, regardless of socio-economic status or geographic location.

She proposed that state governments allocate a portion of their consolidated revenue to health insurance schemes to cover premiums for the economically disadvantaged.

Agbo advocated for increased investment in primary healthcare systems and the inclusion of essential health services in benefit packages to make healthcare more accessible and affordable to all.

She underscored that health insurance broadens access to a comprehensive range of healthcare services, from preventive to rehabilitative, leading to early detection and treatment of illnesses.

Agbo called on government agencies, healthcare providers, civil society organisations, the private sector, communities, and the media to work together to achieve universal healthcare.

She identified inadequate funding, limited awareness about health insurance, infrastructural gaps in healthcare, among other challenges, as impediments to the success of health insurance initiatives.

Blessing Ejiofor, UNICEF Communication Officer, emphasised the crucial role of health insurance in ensuring timely healthcare for children, urging journalists to advocate actively through their platforms to bridge the gaps in health insurance coverage for vulnerable populations.

Dr Olusola Akande, Executive Secretary of OYSHIA, reiterated the state government’s commitment to enrolling all residents in the health insurance scheme.

He noted that health insurance was the most effective means to reach the vulnerable and urged residents to take advantage of the affordable healthcare insurance provided by the state.

Akande disclosed that the state government had allocated over N1 billion to the scheme.

According to him, the premium package for the health insurance is N13,500 and that is what the rich, poor, including the vulnerable pay annually to enjoy the health service package.

Akande, while noting that health insurance scheme is mandatory, said the state government is enforcing its compliance.

“What we are pursuing is to get as many people as possible on the health insurance and leaving no one behind, including the poor, the rich, the rural and urban dwellers. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Victor Adeoti/Tayo Ikujuni

Reliance on importation of pharmaceutical products will reduce soon – FG

Reliance on importation of pharmaceutical products will reduce soon – FG

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By Folasade Akpan

The Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa, has assured Nigerians that very soon reliance on importation of pharmaceutical products would drastically reduce.

He gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja, at a high-level dialogue to “Address the Technology Gaps in Nigeria’s Pharmaceutical and Vaccine Industries”.

The dialogue was organised by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), African Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation (APTF) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

According to Alausa, the assertion is based on the steps taken so far on the implementation of the National Plan for Vaccine Research and Development and Local Production 2024-2034, which was inaugurated in February.

He said that the national plan which had adopted a mixed method approach was developed to address the insufficiency Nigeria and other African countries suffered due to the lack of locally made vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“You will recall that COVID-19 pandemic took the world by surprise, the impact was felt globally, including in most advanced countries.

“The lessons from the pandemic cannot be forgotten in a hurry, including the scramble for COVID-19 vaccines by developed nations.

“As you’re aware, Nigeria, like many other African countries, was affected due to inability to manufacture vaccines locally.

“In the light of this, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, went ahead to develop a vaccine policy in order to be proactive in achieving sustainable local manufacturing of vaccines.

“The national plan is embedded with nine change strategies for prioritisation in order to achieve sustainable local manufacturing of vaccines in Nigeria.

“Two among these nine change strategies are clearly reflected in the objective of this event. One of the change strategies is about intellectual property while the other is technology sophistication and knowledge transfer. “

He also said that the dialogue brought together relevant stakeholders to synthesise ideas and solutions for the robust and contextual strategies that would expedite technology transfer for local manufacturing of medicine and vaccines.

“This approach will provide a strong foundation that support harnessing of local capacity to meet the health care needs of the population.

“The intervention also stimulates local research and development activities for pharmaceuticals and other healthcare commodities.”

The Chief Executive Officer of APTF, Prof. Padmashere Sampath, said that a lot of reasons were responsible for low availability and high prices of pharmaceutical products in Nigeria.

She added that lack of domestic producers, who could produce in ample quantities, was one of the primary reasons, making it impossible to have the kind of competition that would help crash prices of commodities.

“A second reason is that a lot of drugs currently being sold in the Nigerian market are sold by international producers and these producers either sell patented versions of the drugs or maybe branded generics.

“They are more expensive than what will be the case if you produce them domestically.

“So by building domestic capacity, introducing new firms, having competition in the market, we can actually increase availability and reduce price at the same time.

“This is helpful for economic development because the pharmaceutical sector can employ a lot of people.

“It’s the backbone of the industrial economy, but it’s also very good for public health.” she added.

Sampath also said that having drugs at lower prices frees up public health budget to help the health systems become more robust for pandemic preparedness.

This, according to her, would enable people to be treated and give better resilience to the healthcare system.

On his part, Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, the Senior Special Advisor to the President, African Development Bank, said the solution was to ensure industrialisation in the sector.

According to him, health security cannot be outsourced.

He advised that companies willing to produce drugs in Nigeria should be given the right and requisite support to produce the drugs needed in the country.

“So it shouldn’t just be a problem for us, it should be opportunities for this country to solve its own problems and grow its own skills.

“We believe that if we all come together, we can solve this problem and in the next three or four years, we should have so many companies actually producing the drugs that we require,” he said.

Also, the Director-General of NIPRD, Dr Obi Adigwe, said that it was predicated in the national plan that at least three companies, should emerge during the 10-year period of the plan.

He added that presently, there were already three companies that have indicated interest and based on past records of those companies, they would successfully manufacture vaccines within the next 24 to 36 months.

“So it is for us to enhance our activities to be sure that their support is contextual and enable them to reach that target.

“So for the future, we’re looking at leading the charge to coordinate science and research and development to enable policies support the industry.

“This will enable us to get at least three local vaccines manufacturing entities in Nigeria within the next three to five years.

“I am very confident that the policy ecosystem will enable us reach that target of three manufacturing entities in half the time that the plan sets out.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting’s objective is to enable national stakeholders make developmental contributions to the national assessment programme to measure the technology gaps in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector, including vaccines. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Multiple micronutrient supplementation will reduce maternal, child mortality — UNICEF

Multiple micronutrient supplementation will reduce maternal, child mortality — UNICEF

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By Folasade Akpan

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) says the introduction of Multiple Micronutrient Supplement (MMS) for pregnant women in Nigeria will reduce high rate of maternal and infant mortality.

The fund’s Chief of Nutrition, Nemat Hajeebhoy, said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nigeria’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in 2020 stood at 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births, making it one of the countries with the highest MMR globally.

NAN reports that the Federal Government, has, however, taken steps to transit from Iron and Folic Acid Supplements (IFAs) to MMS for pregnant women to ensure better birth outcomes.

The Federal Government adopted the use of MMS based on the 2020 WHO recommendation on antenatal care for positive pregnancy experience.

This led to the inclusion of MMS for pregnant women in the “National Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Micronutrients Deficiencies Control in Nigeria” for improved pregnancy outcomes, compared to IFAs supplementation.

Hajeebhoy said if a mother is healthier, then the chance of death during pregnancy and birth reduces.

According to her, one of the worries of public health and nutrition practitioners is the high rate of maternal, neonatal and infant mortality, a situation which can be reversed through MMS.

She added that with MMS, the proportion of children born small for gestational age reduces and there is reduced risk of pre-term and stillbirth babies.

“Similarly, if a child is born healthy, then the probability that the child will die within the first few days of life or even within the first year is significantly reduced.

“So, if we want to preserve the health of our women and children in Nigeria, especially in those early years and days, then this is what I would call a best buy in public health.

“We also know that if a mother is not nourished, there is the risk of her having a preterm baby or a stillbirth.

“The first 1,000 days from pregnancy to the time the child is two years of age is a very important period in terms of growth as human beings and I don’t just mean physical growth, but also mental growth.

“When a woman is pregnant, she needs to preserve her health so that the child in the uterus can be healthy. So, MMS gives her that boost and all the vitamins and minerals she needs.”

She also said that if a child growing in the uterus does not get enough nutrients, the child is small for the gestational age, which means the child is already malnourished in the womb, but with MMS, such situation is prevented.

The chief of nutrition said there is also a reduction in low birth weight because babies born with low birth weight (less than 2.5 kilogrammes) are at higher risk of infection and even potential death.

She explained that when a woman gets pregnant, her body is supporting two lives and she needs different types of nutrients to develop well, hence the transition from IFAs to MMS.

She further explained that “one of the most important nutrient a woman needs when she’s pregnant is iron, and for the child to develop, she needs folic acid.

“So, over time, the world came up with IFAs and that was the basis for the pill — MMS, for pregnant women for many years to ensure that their health is preserved and their child is healthy.

“IFAs contains iron and folic acid but one MMS pill contains 15 different vitamins and minerals. It contains IFA, but it also contains other vitamins such as B12, many B vitamins and many other good nutrients.

“What we’re realising is that women in general need the multiple nutrients not just the two, but the 15, and we have observed globally that birth outcomes of women given MMS better than those given the IFAs.”

She added that due to these reasons the world was trying to slowly but gradually transit from IFAs to MMS, adding that in many of the high income countries, they have already moved to MMS.

The chief said UNICEF and other partners are working with the Federal Government at all levels to ensure that the supplements are widely available and accepted in the country.

She said that the organisation was working with the government to develop the step by step processes on how to transit appropriately.

Also, Mrs Ladidi Bako-Aiyegbusi, the Director of Nutrition, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, said that according to the 2018 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), about 61 per cent of pregnant women in Nigeria were anemic which has an impact on the unborn child.

She, however, said that WHO in 2020 recommended that countries should transit from the use of IFAs to MMS to improve pregnancy outcomes.

“Then in Nigeria in 2021, the National Guideline on Micronutrient Deficiency Control was revised, which included MMS for pregnant women through the antenatal care platform.

“So, every woman that goes for antenatal care will be provided with MMS.”

She, however, said that the Federal Government was not phasing out IFAs, as it  would still be accessible for pregnant women at health facilities when they go for antenatal care.

“However, we are now doing a gradual transition from IFAs to MMS and we are starting in batches.

“So, we are currently carrying out implementation research in Bauchi State, but government has plans to carry out the implementation research in all the six geopolitical zones.”

Bako-Aiyegbusi said that the data collection tool has just been pre-tested in some communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and that in March, the ministry in collaboration with one of its partners would be going to some communities in Oyo and also in FCT to interface and get evidence.

The evidence gathering, she said, would be on how ready the pregnant women are to accept the MMS.

She added that collaborations were ongoing on how to carry out the research in other geo-political zones of the country.

She also said that just like the IFAs were distributed free of charge to pregnant women in public healthcare facilities, MMS would also be dispensed free when  fully operational.

Bako-Aiyegbusi added that pregnant women would be expected to take the tablet once daily for 180 days in the course of the pregnancy.  (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Institute, Foundation partner to address gaps in Nigeria’s pharmaceuticals

Institute, Foundation partner to address gaps in Nigeria’s pharmaceuticals

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By Lucy Ogalue

The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), is partnering with the African Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation (APTF) to address gaps in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical and vaccine sectors.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports on Sunday that the partnership is in line with the Presidential Initiative to unlock the health sector value chain.

According to a source, both organisations are set to organise a High-Level Meeting on March 18 to March 19, aimed at driving the purpose.

“The one -day High Level Dialogue is targeted at identifying and addressing sector-wide contextual technology gaps in pharma, vaccines, and related industries.

“It will be followed by a technical session expected to strengthen public health-oriented patent guidelines and intellectual property (IP) policies.

“It has an overall goal of achieving sustainable local manufacturing of medicines and vaccines in Nigeria,” the source said.

NAN gathered from the source that the High-Level Dialogue and the Technical Session to be held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja will be attended by the Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa.

The source said that international delegations from several countries, including Rwanda and Cote D’Ivoire had also confirmed attendance to the event.

“Notable among confirmed delegates are Prof Padmashree Sampath, the Chief Executive of the APTF and Prof Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, the Senior Special Adviser on Industrialisation at the African Development Bank (AfDB).

“The Nigerian Team will be led by Dr Obi Adigwe, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIPRD.”

“Other dignitaries include the Senate Committee Chair for Health, Sen. Ipalibo Banigo and Dr Yanko Yordanov  the Amb. of Bulgaria to Nigeria, among others.

According to the source, the meeting will discuss critical themes, including the best ways to measure technology gaps in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical and vaccine sectors.

The source said policy options to address private sector development, strengthening public sector engagement, and the exploration of existing intellectual property laws and policies would be deliberated.

The source said other areas include patent and related capacities for assessment of health technologies; and a review of the implementation of the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) flexibilities at the national level for Nigeria.

“The event will promote discussions and deliberations among key stakeholders from the private sector and key public sector institutes and national agencies.

“ It also includes capacity building activities for all stakeholders while exploring peer review, country exchange initiatives and collaboration growth opportunities.

“The event will set the stage for a longer programme on technology needs assessment to build Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector for which the APTF will partner with NIPRD and the Federal Ministry of Health,” the source said.

NAN reports that NIPRD is a government agency under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

The Institute was established to enhance the development and commercialisation of health products such as phytomedicines, pharmaceutical inputs, drugs, and biological products, including vaccines from Nigeria’s indigenous natural resources.

The APTF is an independent regional agency established in Kigali, Rwanda, by the AfDB .

It aims to support African pharmaceutical companies to build technological capacity to diversify their product baskets, and enhance access to technological know-how of manufacturing products and processes.

The APTF also aims to strengthen the capacity of local research and development ecosystems, including through skills building to support the creation of new knowledge in the domestic pharmaceutical sector. (NAN)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Cleanshield: Allgone LLC partners Reddot TV Network founder, Oparaugo, to boost awareness 

Cleanshield: Allgone LLC partners Reddot TV Network founder, Oparaugo, to boost awareness 

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Allgone LLC, the U.S.-based manufacturers of Cleanshield medical product, is partnering with Reddot Television Network Ltd founder, Osita Oparaugo, to create awareness on the product’s efficacy, in Africa.

“With the partnership, Oparaugo will be expected to deploy his Nigerian-based outfit for advocacy across Africa,” a statement signed by Pes Andeson and Chidinma Eziyi, Chief Executive Officers of Cleanshield, said on Friday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oparaugo’s innovative and internet-based skills had recently been utilised by Sierra Leone in attracting foreign investments.

“The ‘new age’ of information can be applied not only to entertainment and social interaction, but also to health when utilised by capable experts.

“Oparaugo brings the many skill sets of himself and his colleagues to creating a continent-wide awareness of the Cleanshield effect.

“Our transition strategy into direct marketing will be strategically fuelled by the exponentially explosive dynamic of the internet and its podcast streaming world.

“The awareness is a coveted dynamic that will make Cleanshield accessible across the entire continent in the very near future.

“The target of this awareness campaign is the onboarding of distributors selected by careful criteria – market capabilities, like owners of pharmaceutical chains, and others.

“Africa’s population is currently 1.4 billion. The market is large. And Africa communicates. This market is ripe for the health paradigm that Cleashield makes possible, ” the statement added.

The statement emphasised the need to bring the product to the doorsteps of Africans as its healing strength was useful in the battle against diseases like cancer, diabetes, and other viral threats.

“The threats are growing to the chagrin of all. A new avenue of approach or response to the enemy of disease is not only welcome, but direly needed.

“Allgone intends now to merge these two dynamics – using the exploding platform of information to spread the news of a new way to fight back.

“The emerging streaming platform of altruistic ‘let’s change Africa’ entrepreneurs like Osita Oparaugo, his marketing team, and vast streaming podcast networks, has joined Allgone LLC in a like-minded vision of a healthy Africa.

“This moment is significant. The convergence of an 18-year journey of discovery now merging with a marketing dynamic capable of flooding the target market with a critically needed solution all working together to bring the light of health to a continent in need,” it said.

On the feasibility of Cleanshield, it said that it was not based simply on projections forward but upon real facts and accomplishments in the past.

It recalled that the pathway started in 2006 when Allgone LLC, a California corporation, was formed by a Jewish American scientist, a California businessman, and a Nigeria-American business development specialist.

“Cleanshield emerged from a careful consideration by these partners of the 50-year period of development by an inventor, Al Siamon.

“Aspects of this formulation had proven successful in the U.S. market and formed the basis of a company recently purchased for more than 35 million U.S. dollars due to product efficacy and U.S. market penetration.

“After recognising that the best and most important characteristics of this unique formulation remained yet undeveloped, the new business was formed.

“The benefits targeted for development were in regard to physical health and disease alleviation,” it added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the product, designated Cleanshield in Africa, Middle East and European markets, and Balance 7 in the U.S. marketplace, is a unique liquid formulation of extremely high pH concentrate (11.2).

It is said to be completely non-toxic and, when ingested or applied topically, has a dramatic impact on the body’s own healing dynamic.

It is also said to be odourless, completely non-toxic, consists of water and a few inorganic minerals globally accepted and used in the food industry.

According to the statement, the unique combination and mixture of these elements results in an alkaline boosting dynamic within the body that aids the body in recovering from pervasive overly acidic conditions.

“These conditions are commonly experienced throughout the world due to poor diet, lack of exercise, environmental pollutants, and excessive use of chemicals (especially in food production).

“The net result of our current unhealthy health patterns is an extremely unhealthy inner environment that engenders poor oxygenation, toxicity, and compromised pH levels.

“Cleanshield internal applications detoxify, release tides of alkalinity in the circulatory system, boost oxygenation, immunity and the body’s own natural heal and repair mechanism,” it said.

It explained that part of the product is in liquid form usually in a bottle as an internal drink to be ingested in a dosage.

“This is by far the most widely utilised form to date, and has found its way into usage in hospitals, homes, medical clinics, and doctors’ offices.

“The waves of alkalinity released within the bloodstream, when used, circulate throughout the body to fight excessive acidity wherever present and, in the process, boosts immunity, detoxifies, and enhances the body’s own disease and ailment capability.”

The statement said that Cleanshield had consistently helped tens of thousands of users in the handling of acid reflux, indigestion, malaria, typhoid, hypertension, and fatigue.

Others helped were people with low metabolism, BPH, those battling HIV, sickle cell, cancer, Crohn’s disease, and more.

“This range of impact has been testified by users over nine nations with medical and health professionals among those assisted.

Cleanshield has also been found useful to people with skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, burns, itching and diabetic sores.

Others included bed sores, bee stings, infections, wound cleansing, and pain alleviation.

“It swiftly exfoliates the skin and makes dermabrasion obsolete. This impact upon beauty and makeup application is transformative.

“It can also be applied to hair and scalp for scalp health, odour negation, and hair beauty care management.”

Delving into the history of the medical product, the statement said that the original formulation was discovered in the mid 1950s.

“Experimentation and investigation continued for decades and resulted in a specific microbial control application that developed into a successful business.

“A second phase of investigation began in 2006 with the formation of Allgone LLC with collaboration of seeding trials and field trials over the 10 years.

“The paradigm of boosting internal immune and metabolic boosting capability became increasingly clear after the trials.

“A leading pharmaceutical expert performed seeding trials on patients with BPH, malaria, typhoid, hepatitis, and HIV.

“A five-year field study made the formulation available to 2,000 patients across a wide spectrum of health conditions, both internal and topical.

“A medical doctor, leading cardiologist and professor at a teaching hospital in Nigeria, applied this product in a hospital setting for several years.

“The reports and results for these activities formed the basis for the market launch in West Africa, the US and the UK, with care taken to disclaim direct curative qualities.

“The singular target of this product is excessive acidity in the body and its toxic impact on oxygenation, circulation, and immunity.

“Cleanshield simply seeks out and neutralises excessive acidity within the inner terrain of the body.”

The statement said that efforts at marketing Cleanshield in Africa began in 2010 and gained explosive momentum in 2012 when its distribution arm used a network marketing approach.

“This marketing approach is common in West Africa and quickly puts hundreds of thousands of bottles in the hands of the common man as well as doctors across Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, and Burkina Faso,” the statement said. (NAN)

Edited by Philip Yatai

Importance of prioritising sleep health cannot be overemphasised – Society

Importance of prioritising sleep health cannot be overemphasised – Society

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By Lilian U. Okoro

The critical importance of prioritising sleep health cannot be overemphasised as sleep is the pillar of lifestyle medicine for overall well-being, the Society of Lifestyle Medicine of Nigeria (SOLONg), says.

Dr Moyosore Makinde, the President of SOLONg, made the assertion in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in commemoration of the 2024 World Sleep Day on Friday in Lagos.

NAN reports that World Sleep Day is celebrated annually on March 15 to raise awareness of the importance of healthy sleep habits for overall well-being and promote good sleep habits.

It is an opportunity to heighten the awareness of sleep in diverse institutions and communities.

The 2024 World Sleep Day has the theme: “Sleep Equity for Global Health”.

Makinde, also a Consultant Family Physician  and  Member, World Sleep Society, said that sleep was not merely a luxury but a fundamental pillar of health, comparable to nutrition and physical activity.

According to her, sleep is essential to health, saying that adequate sleep supports memory and learning; promotes brain health by clearing waste from the brain and strengthens the immune system by aiding in the clearance of bacteria and viruses.

She explained that poor sleep health has been linked to a myriad of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, coronary artery disease and cognitive impairment.

The physician said that statistics reported by the World Sleep Society and World Health Organisation (WHO), revealed that 42 million adults were predicted to have chronic insomnia worldwide, while $417 billion is lost in annual GDP globally due to reduced productivity associated with chronic insomnia.

“Over 16 per cent of individuals over Africa and Asia have reported extreme and severe sleep problems which were strongly linked to poorer general well-being and quality of life, and psychiatric factors.

“Sleep health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, and world  sleep day serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising sleep in our lives.

“This day is marked with the main objective of creating an awareness campaign to draw the attention of the world to the growing global societal and economic burden of chronic insomnia.

“And how this can increase the risk of worker fatigue, errors in judgement, fatal accidents as well as chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease and even some cancers.

“By raising awareness of sleep health, healthy lifestyle behaviours and addressing disparities, we can work towards creating healthier and more equitable communities,” Makinde said.

Contributing, Dr Mimi Osamwonyi, the General Secretary of SOLONg, said that healthy sleep encompasses more than just getting enough sleep.

Osamwonyi, also a Consultant Neurologist, explained that there were six dimensions that impacted sleep health and, consequently, overall health and well-being.

“These dimensions include duration, efficiency, timing, regularity, alertness and quality.

“By addressing each dimension, individuals can adopt healthy sleep behaviours and improve their overall health.

“To maintain physical, mental and social well-being, you need to get enough sleep, as well as a healthy diet and exercise,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Nephrologist seeks collective measures to reduce kidney disease

Nephrologist seeks collective measures to reduce kidney disease

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By Oluwafunke Ishola

A Consultant Physician and Nephrologist, Dr Ayoola Odeyemi, says collective measures involving patients, healthcare providers and government are required to reduce the burden of kidney morbidity and mortality.

Odeyemi, a Specialist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  in Lagos in commemoration of World Kidney Day, marked annually on the second Thursday of March.

It is  aimed at raising awareness on the importance of the kidney to overall health and to reduce the frequency and impact of kidney disease and associated health problems globally.

The 2024 theme is “Kidney Health for All- Advancing Equitable Access to Care and Optimal Medication Practice.”

Odeyemi, who is also the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Nigerian Association of Nephrology (NAN), puts the prevalence of kidney diseases in the country at 30 per cent.

According to him, many people are living with undiagnosed kidney diseases, stressing that early detection improves the chances of receiving effective treatment and preventing kidney failure.

Odeyemi noted that chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often irreversible, while the acute kidney disease (AKD) may be reversed with treatment if detected early.

He appealed to physicians to have a high index of suspicion to pick kidney disease symptoms in patients and refer them to a nephrologist for prompt treatment.

The nephrologist urged the government to evolve appropriate legislation to ensure affordable care, noting that most kidney patients pay for treatment out-of-pocket.

Odeyemi also appealed for the integration of comprehensive kidney care in the National Health Insurance Act, lamenting that kidney dialysis was not adequately catered for.

“The health insurance made provision for only six sessions of kidney dialysis per year for each patient, whereas most patients with kidney failure or end-stage renal disease require four to five sessions per week.

“Each dialysis session costs about N50, 000, which is a huge financial burden for kidney patients,” he said.

Odeyemi also urged health management organisations (HMOs) to embrace renal care in their service.

“Nigerian Association of Nephrology is appealing to well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of kidney patients because there’s a lot of needless deaths,” he told NAN.

He noted that many CKD patients in Nigeria die within three to six months of procuring dialysis, compared to advanced countries where the survival could be over 20 years.

Odeyemi also called for sustainable funding for kidney care, including transplant at the federal and state level.

He noted that NAN was advocating for relative donors as against commercialisation of the kidney for transplant, adding that it was unethical and exploitative.

According to him, the association is working in collaboration with the government on appropriate legislations and regulation for kidney transplant.

He advised kidney patients to visit LASUTH for transplant, noting that the hospital was equipped with the latest technology and has recorded successes in kidney transplant.

On the financial cost of kidney transplant and investigation in the country, Odeyemi disclosed that it ranges between N16 million to N20 million at health facilities.

He added that the cost of medication post-surgery in the first year cost about four to five million naira, noting that the cost reduces after the first year.

Odeyemi emphasised that the best hope for reducing the human and economic costs of kidney disease lies in prevention, thus called for intensive awareness and education at the community level.

He advised people to embrace a healthy lifestyle, control their blood pressure and sugar level, refrain from overuse of painkillers, eat healthy diets with minimal salt, sugar and fat, among others.

According to Odeyemi, there are about 35 to 40 nephrologists in Lagos State, while some states have two, warning that the number of specialists is grossly inadequate to manage the increasing burden of kidney disease among citizens. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Kaduna-based pharmaceutical firm expands to serve african markets

Kaduna-based pharmaceutical firm expands to serve african markets

421 total views today

By Abujah Racheal

AMA Pharmaceuticals, a Kaduna-based indigenous firm, has unveiled its second pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Kaduna, signaling a strategic move to meet healthcare demands beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The World Trade Organization (WTO), says it is a significant stride towards bolstering Africa’s pharmaceutical sector.

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General, WTO, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the second phase of the medical manufacturing plant in Kaduna.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that AMA Medical, an indigenous pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Nigeria, operates in phases.

Its initial phase is the establishment of state-of-the-art production plant, utilising European technology, particularly Automatic Form Fill Seal Technology (AFFS).

The technology, featuring advanced machinery, produces high-quality intravenous solutions (IV fluids) at affordable costs, significantly reducing pediatric wastage

It does this by introducing 250ml formats for Normal Saline, 4.3 per cent Dextrose Saline, and 5 per cent Dextrose, first in West Africa.

With a current capacity of 10 million pouches annually and plans for expansion, AMA aims to swiftly penetrate the West African Market and leverage the Africa Continental Free Trade Area.

Okonjo-Iweala said the expansion aligned with the Nigerian government’s initiative to enhance local pharmaceutical production and equipment manufacturing.

She commended AMA’s expansion, hailing it as a significant step towards bolstering economic growth, healthcare self-sufficiency, and regional cooperation in Africa’s pharmaceutical industry.

She underscored the project’s role in reducing import dependency, strengthening the local healthcare value chain, and fostering economic growth as per President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda.

The DG highlighted the project’s broader significance, emphasising its potential to improve healthcare access across Africa.

“The reason we are excited in this project is not only about producing for Nigeria, but also producing for Africans.

Vice President Kashim Shetima said in the light of the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a growing recognition of the importance of prioritising national health security.

Shetima, who was represented by Dr Uju Rochas-Anwukah, his Adviser on Public Health, said the establishment of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical facility with European technology underscored the need for a robust health infrastructure that could respond effectively to health emergencies and ensure the country’s healthcare resilience.

Furthermore, he said the expansion of AMA’s pharmaceutical facility was expected to create job opportunities and empower the youth in Nigeria.

“Investing in the manufacturing sector will engage the talents and skills of the country’s citizens, contributing to economic growth and national development.

“The move towards technological advancements and innovation, particularly in stem cell production and In Vitro Diagnostics (IVDs), vaccines, and biologicals, demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to becoming a hub for cutting-edge healthcare technologies in Africa.

“The establishment of a manufacturing plant of this scale not only benefits Nigeria but also offers salvation to other African nations.

This is particularly in West Africa, by easing their access to the Nigerian market and fostering regional collaboration and partnerships.

Earlier, Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, said the construction of the second phase of the plant was set to boost the Federal Government’s drive in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and equipment locally.

Also, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate,
the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, said the government of President Tinubu had recently launched a new initiative called “Unlocking the value chain” in an effort to address health emergencies.

Pate said the initiative aimed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the health sector by streamlining processes and improving coordination between different

The initiative will focus on improving access to healthcare services, strengthening the healthcare system, and enhancing the capacity of healthcare workers.

“By identifying and addressing bottlenecks in the value chain, the government hopes to improve the overall quality of healthcare in the state and ensure that Nigerians received the care needed in a timely manner,” he said.

Mr Musa Bello, Chairman of AMA Investment Holdings, outlined phase two’s objectives, which included establishing solid formulations for oral dosages and venturing into stem cell and blood product manufacturing.

He said the groundbreaking ceremony for phase 2 was a significant milestone in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry, aligning with President Tinubu’s commitment to unlocking the country’s healthcare value chain.

He highlighted AMA’s expansion as a strategic move towards achieving economic self-sufficiency in pharmaceuticals and bio-industry, reducing import dependency, strengthening the local healthcare value chain, and promoting economic growth.

He underlined the country’s dedication to addressing health emergencies and enhancing health infrastructure.

Moreover, Bello underscored job creation and youth empowerment through investments in the manufacturing sector, showcasing advancements in technology and innovation.

He highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role in regional and continental trade, particularly in the healthcare sector.

Dignitaries at the event included the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, and other government officials.

AMA Medical Manufacturing Limited, founded in 2019, is based in Kaduna Industrial Layout.

Since its inception, the company has been at the forefront of advancing medical manufacturing, with a vision to address critical healthcare needs.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

FG set to restore glory of natural medicine — Official

FG set to restore glory of natural medicine — Official

180 total views today

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), on Thursday, said the Federal Government is on the path of restoring the glory of natural medicine.

The Director-General of the agency, Prof. Martins Emeje, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the ongoing Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Expo taking place in Abuja.

He said that: “Before colonialism, Nigerians used natural medicines to cure all manner of illnesses and diseases,” adding that with the coming of foreign products, including medicines, Nigerians developed taste and patronised such goods over locally made ones.

Emeje, however, disregarded the belief that natural medicines are old and overtaken by advancements in technology.

According to him, technology is an aid that is helping to modify the study, processing and packaging of natural medicines.

Herbal medicine

He also said that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government is focused on building a better Nigeria where the common man will benefit from the nation’s socio-economic development.

He said, “our vision is to see how Nigerians can begin to believe in themselves first, because convincing people that foreign drugs are also from plants is not the issue.

“We need to tell people that what we have thrown away, this government is bringing it back.

“In the next two to three years, what the agency is doing as part of its contribution to the Renewed Hope Agenda,  is to ensure that the hope of our people is renewed.

“We are renewing the hope of Nigerians who do not have access to imported drugs and depend on herbs.”

Emeje added that people who lack access to orthodox and imported drugs shouldn’t feel less about natural medicines.

He explained that, “years before colonial masters, our people were taking care of their health, and many never had access to orthodox medicines but they survived with herbs in their surroundings and lived longer.”

Herbal medicine

NAN reports that the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Expo is being organised by the STI Ministry, and has innovators, inventors, exhibitors of technological wares, research institutes, universities, institutions of government, participating.

The STI expo, holding from March 11 to March 15 has “STI: Solutions to National Economic Challenges” as its theme.(NAN)(www.nannnew.ng)

Edited by Abdullahi Mohammed/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

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