NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Father’s Day: Societal pressures deepen men’s health burden — Expert
Health

Father’s Day: Societal pressures deepen men’s health burden — Expert

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By Folasade Akpan

Dr Adesida Adewumi, a Consultant Family Physician and Public Health Specialist, says societal expectations continue to complicate the layered health challenges men face across physical, mental, spiritual, and social dimensions.

Adewumi made the observation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, in commemoration of Father’s Day.

NAN reports that Father’s Day is observed every year on the third Sunday of June and is dedicated to honouring fathers, fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society.

According to Adewumi, men between the ages of 20 and 60 are the most affected by these multilayered health issues, which are often intensified by silence around vulnerability and poor health-seeking behaviour.

He said physical health problems such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases were widespread and often tied to obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

“Sexual health issues like erectile dysfunction and low testosterone are common among men.

“There’s also an increasing concern with substance abuse and sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia,” he said.

On mental health, Adewumi highlighted the prevalence of depression, anxiety, stress, and burnout, especially from work, financial strain, and family responsibilities.

He noted that addiction often served as a coping mechanism.

“Men are more likely to die by suicide due to their use of more lethal means and a general reluctance to seek help,” he added.

Spiritually, he said many men grappled with a lack of meaning or purpose, particularly during midlife crises or career stagnation, while disconnection from faith communities and lingering guilt or shame further exacerbated their struggles.

He noted that social health also presented challenges, including relationship breakdowns, career-induced isolation, and pressures associated with fatherhood, particularly the societal demand to be both a provider and an emotionally present parent.

“These intersecting issues, such as the pressure to perform, long work hours, financial insecurity, and poor work-life balance, ultimately take a toll on men’s overall well-being,” Adewumi said.

To mitigate these health challenges, the physician advised that men should adopt healthier lifestyles, starting with a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables.

He also recommended engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.

He emphasised the importance of routine health screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer, as well as regular sexual health check-ups and open conversations with healthcare providers.

“Men should avoid harmful substances by limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, and steering clear of recreational drugs.

“At work, they should prioritise safety by using protective gear and ergonomic setups,” he advised.

He further recommended financial literacy programmes, career counselling, flexible work arrangements, and the promotion of male mentorship in schools and workplaces.

“Men need to be trained in effective communication skills. This includes learning emotional vocabulary and active listening.

“They also need to be involved in parenting because active fatherhood improves bonds and boosts self-worth,” he said.

Adewumi stressed that long-term well-being for men depended on proactive health education, routine medical care, strong community connections, and supportive environments both at home and in the workplace. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Abiemwense Moru

Nigeria’s Aviation Future: Between domestic growth and national pride
Features

Nigeria’s Aviation Future: Between domestic growth and national pride

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Federal Government’s pursuit of a national carrier has been a long-standing endeavour, marked by both initial successes and subsequent setbacks.

From the records, Nigeria had made not less than 11 attempts to float a national carrier, out of which only four, – Nigeria Airways, Virgin Nigeria, Nigeria Eagle and Air Nigeria – took off.

The four attempts mentioned above took off by having aircraft and staff members, while the other seven shots were just idea that never saw the light of the day.

The establishment of a national carrier, therefore, has been a recurring theme, not just because it represents national pride but also it creates jobs, boosts tourism, fosters international trade, generates revenues and supports economic growth.

It was, therefore, not surprising that the recent announcement, that the Federal Government would no longer push for the establishment of a national carrier was greeted with mixed reactions from stakeholders.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently at a function in Lagos, disclosed that the Federal Government would no longer establish a national carrier, but gives full support to the growth and expansion of domestic airlines.

During the launch of a book: ‘100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: History, Issues and Prospects’ written by Wole Shadare, the minister said the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to driving policies that would support the growth and development of local airlines.

Clarifying his position, Keyamo on his verified X handle (@fkeyamo) said: “While not directly investing in a new national carrier, the government remains open to private or public, for establishing a national carrier that benefits Nigeria”.

With the clarification made by the minister, it is pertinent to distinguish between a national carrier and a flag carrier to know the direction of the government in floating a wing for the country.

A national carrier is an airline that is wholly government-owned and operated, representing the country in aviation-related bilateral agreements.

Examples of national carriers include, Air France (France), Qantas (Australia), and Emirates (UAE). It can also be owned by government and privately managed as we have with Ethiopian Airlines (ET).

A flag carrier, on the other hand, is a privately-owned airline that is designated by the government to represent the country on international routes. Examples are United Airline or Delta Air in America, British Airways in United Kingdom and Lufthansa in Germany.

It is important to note that while both types of airlines fly under the flag of a country, the distinction lies in their ownership and operational structure.

Like Emirates, Qatar Airways, the defunct Nigeria Airways was a wholly owned entity of the Nigerian government for most of its existence.

Established in 1958 as West African Airways Corporation Nigeria (WAAC Nigeria) and later changed to Nigeria Airways in 1971, the defunct national airline was the embodiment of Nigeria’s presence in international aviation.

For over 40 years, before ceasing operations in 2003, the airline linked various destinations within Nigeria, West and Central Africa. It also operated intercontinental flights to Europe, USA, Middle East and Asia,

The airline which employed thousands of workers directly and indirectly, operated various models of Boeing aircraft and diverse fleet with specific configurations.

Plagued by mismanagement, corruption and overstaffing, at the time of closure in 2003, the airline had debts of more than 60 million dollars (equivalent of about 91.8 billion dollars as at present)

The latest of the attempts to have a national carrier was the inauguration of Nigeria Air on May 27, 2023, just 48 hours before the end of the tenure of the immediate past administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The then Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, had in 2018, during the Farnborough International Airshow in London, made public the Federal Government’s partnership with Ethiopian Air to float the Nigeria Air.

Under the shared ownership of the airline, ET had the controlling interest with a 49 per cent stake. Institutional investors like MRS had 46 per cent and the Federal government had just five per cent.

From the plan, ET was to manage the airline’s operations under a management contract, which would connect the local Nigerian market with international markets and destinations.

Aviation stakeholders, were, however, opposed to the structure of the deal contending that the airline was neither government owned national carrier nor locally owned flag carrier.

They argued that the Nigeria Air was owned and controlled by foreign entity that could operate domestic routes and international flight flown from and to Nigeria.

“The deal presents Nigeria Air as a foreign owned, government-backed airline that will fly internationally and also on domestic routes.

“We can also see that the deal is just business for ET to fulfil its objective of becoming Africa’s aviation hub.

“National carrier are more than just business for countries. They inspire national pride for the citizens

“Under the current circumstances, the Nigeria Air could do more harm than good,” industry expert, Dumebi Oluwole said.

Oluwole also contended that the deal was in violation of Article 7 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Convention that guides airlines operation worldwide.

The article, according to him, is called cabotage and provides that foreign airlines should not run operations with special privileges exclusively in a state.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria, which was also displeased by the formation of the carrier, had also sued the Federal government to stop the floating of the airline on the grounds that the national carrier project did not show fairness, equity, and transparency.

Besides the opposition and the legal encumbrance, the inauguration of the airline was also marred by scandal with the report that Sirika chartered an ET aircraft for the launch.

When Keyamo assumed office as minister, he also criticised the ET national carrier deal that it was unfair to Nigerian airlines.

According to him, it would be irresponsible for the Federal Government to allow a foreign entity to monopolise the nation’s aviation industry, thereby compromising the growth of local businesses.

The Minister declared the deal as “fraudulent and anti-Nigeria” and announced the Federal Government’s decision to suspend it indefinitely.

Some industry players had welcomed the suspension of the ET Air Nigeria deal and the declaration by the minister that the Federal Ggovernment would no longer invest any funds in establishing a national carrier.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Group Capt. John Ojikutu, said there was no reason to continue calling for a National Carrier after the Privatisation, Commercialisation and Concession Act of 2000.

Ojikutu, the former Commandant of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, said, in line with the minister’s position, what the country needed was a flag carrier.

He, however, argued that the government must take up the responsibility of designating the flag carrier if the airline must operate on the Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA).

According to him, a wholly government funded and operated national carrier would result in a repeat of the Nigeria Airways experiences of corruption and mismanagement.

“Any attempt to continue with the idea of a National Carrier is a way to forming a government airline for government officials and not necessarily for the Nigerian citizens,” he said.

Mr Abdulmalik Jibreel, Aero Contractors Inter-Governmental and Business Development Manager, shared the sentiments of Ojikutu on the need for the country to have a flag carrier.

According to him, an efficient flag carrier would contribute to the nation’s aviation industry’s growth and be a mix of domestic, regional, and international routes, strategically designed to connect Nigeria to the world and contribute to the economy.

He added that it would maximise the benefits from Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Jibreel, however, explained that establishing a national airline independently, without government involvement and support, would be complex and challenging.

Mr Oluwaseun Jegede, an aviation finance expert, suggested a merger of the liquidated Arik Air and Aero Contractor under the management of AMCON, to birth a national carrier.

Jegede said the idea would save the Federal Government the financial commitment of buying new aircraft and lay to rest the challenge of huge debt owed by the former managements of the two airlines.

On the contrary, Mr Wale Otubanjo, a former Flight Captain with the defunct Nigeria Airways, said national carrier is a national pride and should be funded by the government.

According to him, the pitfall of the Nigeria Airways was mainly mismanagement which could be averted.

Justifying the importance of a national carrier to a country, Otubanjo referenced the decision of the South African government to keep its national wing, South African Air, afloat even when it has not made profit in more than a decade.

Similarly, Mr Hector Nnadi, the Chairman of Joint Consultative and Negotiating Council (JCNC), said re-establishment of a national carrier would be for the benefit of the Nigerian aviation community, the flying public, and the nation’s economy as a whole.

According to him, with proper management, a national carrier would be a key driver of economic growth and development for the country with far-reaching impacts on various sectors.

By and large, there is a strong consensus that Nigeria needs a national carrier or flag carrier, and the current administration should double its efforts to establish one.

While some argued against government involvement, citing potential inefficiencies and the success of privately-owned airlines elsewhere, many believed a national carrier is crucial for Nigeria’s aviation sector and overall economic development. (NANFeatures)

** If used kindly credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Diplomats urge African leaders to champion child rights, justice
Foreign

Diplomats urge African leaders to champion child rights, justice

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By Fortune Abang

The United World Congress of Diplomats (UN-WCD) is urging African leaders to unite in fostering justice, equality, and opportunity for the continent’s children, aligning with international laws.

This call to action, delivered virtually by Amb. Tunji Asaolu on the International Day of the African Child, underscores the urgent need to accelerate the implementation of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.

Celebrated annually on June 16, the International Day of the African Child commemorates the tragic Soweto Uprising of 1976, where South African students protested educational injustice and faced brutal suppression.

“In light of the theme, we urge governments at all levels and all stakeholders to expedite the effective realisation of all international policies and frameworks pertaining to children’s rights and welfare,” stated Asaolu, a Professor of Politics and International Studies.

He emphasised that the day served as a powerful reminder to prioritise children’s needs and rights, ensuring they reach their full potential.

“As we reflect, celebrate and reignite our resolve for the welfare of our children, the very heartbeat of our continent and architects of our future, this day carries significant weight about June 16, 1976”.

He added that the bravery of the young souls in Soweto was a poignant reminder of the urgent responsibility to foster justice, equality, and opportunity for every African child.

“Today transcends mere celebration; it is an emphatic call to action about our shared obligation to uphold children’s rights through strict adherence to international laws, charters and declarations.”

Asaolu cited the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), adopted in 1989 and globally recognised as a ratified human rights treaty, for its fundamental principles recognising the inherent dignity and equal rights of every child.

He stressed the imperative for adequate investment in education as a cornerstone for child development, alongside protecting children from violence, abuse, and neglect.

Providing healthcare services and robust legal frameworks are also crucial for bolstering the African child’s overall development and future prospects.

“Let us move beyond merely recognising these policies and commit ourselves to their practical implementation.

“The rights of the child should not merely exist on paper, but should thrive in our homes, schools, communities and governments.

“We must invest in education, fortify child protection systems and cultivate safe environments wherein every African child can aspire and achieve,” the ambassador urged. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Vivian Ihechu

Sen. Nwoko announces full scholarships for 90 Delta North students
Education

Sen. Nwoko announces full scholarships for 90 Delta North students

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By Deborah Coker

No fewer than 90 students of Delta North origin would benefit from Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) fully sponsored comprehensive scholarship scheme.

Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Abuja on Sunday.

He explained that the scholarship was geared toward advancing education in the state in general and the zone in particular.

He disclosed that the scholarship package includes tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and other academic costs throughout the students’ four-year programme, making it one of the most robust educational interventions in the region in recent times.

According to him, the scholarship will cover full tuition and all academic-related expenses for four years, offering critical financial relief to families while fostering academic excellence.

“Each local government area making up the senatorial zone is allotted ten slots, ensuring fair distribution across the district.

“These local government areas are Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North East, Ika South, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, Oshimili South, Oshimili North and Ukwuani.

“I want our future generation to be equipped with the tools they need to succeed.”

The lawmaker added that the scholarship scheme is a strategic investment in the youths of Delta North, aimed at giving them a solid educational foundation.

He underscored the need to prioritise both academic potential and financial need, and therefore, called on community leaders and party stakeholders in the state to ensure a transparent and merit-based selection process. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

IBPLC unveils Kickstart initiative to drive economic growth 
General News

IBPLC unveils Kickstart initiative to drive economic growth 

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), has called on young Nigerian entrepreneurs to take advantage of its 2025 Kickstart initiative, to increase their contributions to economic growth.

According to IBPLC, the initiative aligns with the fact that a youth-driven enterprise will shape Nigeria’s future.

Dr Peter Bamkole, Chairman, Advisory Board, International Breweries Foundation, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of the company, made the call on Saturday in Lagos.

The Kickstart is the company’s corporate social investment programme, designed to identify, train, mentor and fund young Nigerian entrepreneurs, between the ages of 18 and 35.

The initiative targets priority sectors, driving growth and innovation, including retail, agriculture (rice, maize and sorghum) renewable energy, circular packaging, recycling and other viable micro and small-scale businesses.

Bamkole said the call for applications for Kickstart 2025, reaffirmed the company’s long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable economic development in the country.

“We believe Nigeria’s economic transformation lies with its young entrepreneurs and Kickstart continues to make a meaningful impact by reducing unemployment and promoting inclusive growth.

“We are looking for passionate, resilient individuals ready to grow their businesses, whether in agriculture, recycling, retail, or renewable energy.

“This is a chance to access the knowledge, network, and funding needed to succeed,” he said.

Mrs Temitope Oguntokun, Corporate Affairs and Regulatory Director, IBPLC, said the programme represented the company’s unwavering commitment to building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria.

Oguntokun said that by investing in the ideas and energy of the youth, the company was sowing seeds of long-term prosperity.

She noted that over the years, IBPLC had seen beneficiaries grow from small startups to employers of labour, hence the excitement to welcome the next generation of changemakers in 2025.

The corporate affairs director said the 2025 edition was structured as a comprehensive entrepreneurial journey from selection to receiving startup grants.

According to her, the process begins with a competitive application and screening phase, followed by virtual training in core entrepreneurship courses.

She said the training would be delivered in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre of Pan-Atlantic University.

“Participants will then advance to an intensive business bootcamp, delivered with the support of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).

“The programme culminates in the Pitch-Fest, a pitching competition, where finalists will present their ideas and its sustainability to a panel of seasoned business experts for a chance to win grant funding and ongoing support.

“Beyond funding, kickstart offers mentorship opportunities and access to a vibrant alumni network, ensuring that participants have the tools, guidance and community needed to sustain and grow their businesses,” she said.

Oguntokun stated that applicants must be running a business, either registered or unregistered; operational for no more than three years, or have a strong, viable business idea that aligns with the programme’s focus sectors.

She said the programme also gave opportunities for persons living with disabilities to participate.

Oguntokun disclosed that Kickstart has trained more than 1,700 aspiring entrepreneurs, with 425 business owners who received seed capital and mentorship in the last 10 years. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Oluwafunke Ishola

Father’s Day: Cleric urges fathers to be good mentors
Religious

Father’s Day: Cleric urges fathers to be good mentors

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By Taiye Agbaje

Pastor Alex Ogundipe of Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, Daki-Biyu District, Kubwa, Abuja, on Sunday, urged fathers to be good mentors to their children.

Ogundipe, who is the senior pastor of the church, gave the advice while giving exhortation to fathers as the world celebrates this year’s International Father’s Day.

He said the essence of the day is to call the attention of the fathers to their responsibilities.

Enumerating the roles of a good father, the clergyman said a father must be a good mentor to his child or children.

“If a father fails to be a mentor, his child or children may end up taking advice from bad friends or become wayward through social media, which may in turn be detrimental to the society,” he said.

Citing from Genesis 18:19, he said a good father would mentor his children to know God, command and teach them in the way of God.

“He will provide for his household and love his household,” he said, citing the Book of Timothy 5:8.

He said the secret of success in a family lies in the readiness of a father to love and provide for his household.

Pastor Nathaniel Ayankanmi, who delivered the sermon titled: “The Father: God’s Steward,” also urged the fathers to be good mentors to their children.

Citing from Philippians 4:9 and Joshua 24:15, Ayankanmi urged the fathers to always be ready to pass the ordinance of God to their children.

“Be a good example of God’s proof and be obedient to God’s words,” he said.

The cleric, who gave three ways to be a steward of God, said, “the fathers must be pure, must be kingdom-intended and must not love the world.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the International Father’s Day is celebrated across the globe on the third Sunday of June of every year.

It is an opportunity for every child to thank the man who has always been there to support them and help them prosper in life.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday
General News

Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday paid tribute to Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd.) on his 83rd birthday.

In the tribute personally written by Tinubu, he saluted Abubakar for his service to Nigeria, both in uniform and in retirement.

He commended his commitment to peace, stability, and good governance across the African continent.

“Gen. Abubakar’s legacy, particularly his role in leading Nigeria through a peaceful transition to democratic rule in 1999, remains a watershed moment in the nation’s history.

“His selfless act of handing over power paved the way for Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and strengthened the principle of constitutional democracy.

“As Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abubakar has continued to play a significant role in promoting dialogue, defusing tension, and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria,” the President wrote.

He said Abubakar’s voice of moderation, reason, and statesmanship was deeply valued at a time where unity and leadership were more critical than ever.

Tinubu described Abubakar as a patriot of uncommon integrity whose service inspired generations of Nigerians in public life.

“As he marks another year of life, Nigeria honours his sacrifices, wisdom, and unyielding devotion to the peace and unity of our great nation.

“I wish the former Head of State continued strength, good health, and divine grace in the years ahead,” Tinubu said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection
Science & Tech

BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

Dr Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), has reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to data protection in Nigeria.

He disclosed this in a statement on Saturday by Zira Nagga, Head of Public Relations, BPP, following a courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

Adedokun stressed that data protection is vital to Nigeria’s economy and development, particularly in areas such as demography, health, education, and other key sectors.

He emphasised that no country should leave its data unprotected, as it plays a crucial role in future planning and national development.

“Data governs the world. It is essential to technological progress and must be protected for a country or business to be taken seriously,” he said.

Adedokun described the visit, aimed at fostering partnership on data policy implementation and protection, as timely and aligned with national goals.

He said the BPP would collaborate closely with the NDPC to boost data development, capacity building, and enhance the procurement system.

“The BPP will support compliance as part of the ‘Nigeria First’ Policy, although it is not a core procurement eligibility requirement,” he explained.

He suggested a hybrid training model to help build strong capacity in data protection, privacy awareness, and policy understanding.

According to him, a dynamic training approach will reduce logistics costs and improve public confidence in data safety and privacy.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, NDPC CEO and Pioneer National Commissioner, praised Adedokun and the BPP for supporting data protection initiatives.

He said the partnership supports President Bola Tinubu’s vision and will strengthen data privacy across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

“The collaboration will create awareness and train BPP staff to ensure a firm grasp of data protection principles and policies,” he stated.

Olatunji said the NDPC would establish a working group to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding beneficial to both institutions.

He added that President Tinubu signed the NDPC into law on 12 June 2023 to uphold citizens’ rights and protect national and business data.

Olatunji also noted that strict legal measures were in place to enforce data protection and ensure full compliance nationwide.

Both agencies agreed to form a team to sign the MoU and focus on capacity building and data management in procurement and beyond. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Bonding Fathers with Newborns: A Government’s Initiative
Solutions Journalism

Bonding Fathers with Newborns: A Government’s Initiative

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By Magdalene Ukuedojor

Mr EricJames Ochigbo is all smiles and pride as he strides into his office; as a journalist, his work hours are spent investigating reports, attending events and meeting deadlines.

This radiance is not from breaking a big news story or catching up with a long sought-after news source, but purely of rest and bonding.

Ochigbo, after a 14 working day paternity leave, can bounce back to work happy, rested and fulfilled.

“I had my first baby, a baby girl, in December.

“Luckily for me, paternity leave was approved by the Federal Government the month before, without it, I wouldn’t know how to cope with my busy work schedule.

“My wife gave birth towards the end of the year, a festive and very busy period, it would have been very difficult to cope with the delivery and work, being a first-time dad.

“When I took out the 14 days, it gave me time to rest because the pressure of work was taken off me and then I was able to concentrate more on the demands of fatherhood.

“I took over the cooking and I carried the baby a lot and we bonded very closely; I rocked the baby while my wife rested.

“This way, she healed faster and was stronger to care for her when I returned to work.

“It was a wonderful time, I wish men could be given more days,” Ochigbo said.

Since the establishment of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in 1976, the media outfit where Ochigbo works, no male officer had enjoyed paternity leave prior to his.

The Nigerian Civil and Public Service did not institute paternity leave for male officers until 2022 when the feat was accomplished by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Administration.

Government prioritised women who benefitted immensely from maternity leave over the years while men clamoured for same.

Now, based on the circular with ref no: HCSF/SPSO/ODD/NCE/RR/650309/3, dated 25th November, 2022, men in the federal civil service, are entitled to paternity leave.

The then Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, said the leave was in line with the provisions of the Public Service Rules, 2021 Edition.

“Government has approved paternity leave for serving male officers whose spouse delivers a baby.

“The period of the leave shall be fourteen working days. The leave shall not be more than once in two years, and for maximum of four children,” she said.

The Federal Government went further to ensure that families with adopted babies were equally captured in the circular and reviewed Public Service Rules.

“Where the family of a male officer adopts a child under four months old, the officer will similarly enjoy paternity leave for a period of fourteen working days,” Yemi-Esan said.

What are the requirements needed to obtain paternity leave in the Federal Civil Service?

The male officer must be married and known to be married.

He must provide the Expected Date of Delivery’s report of his wife or evidence of approval of the adoption of the child by the relevant government bodies.

He must apply for the leave with the documents.

He can only be granted the leave once in two years.

How did the Federal Government achieve this feat?

Yemi-Esan explained that different union bodies clamoured for it, noting that bonding was important to help a newly born or adopted baby properly bond with the father in the early period.

Also, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) looked into international best practices in other climes, brainstormed at different stakeholders’ committees for a template.

The OHCSF, responsible for the leadership, management and capacity development of the Federal Civil Service to implement federal government’s policies and programmes, included the paternity leave in the reviewed Public Service Rules.

Mr Lawrence Nwaka, Special Assistant to the Permanent Secretary, Service Policies and Strategies Office, OHCSF, said that the reviewed rule was presented at the Federal Executive Council Meeting for approval.

“The paternity leave is a response of the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation to the yearnings and aspirations of male civil servants.

“Who would love to be with their wives in the days following the delivery of their newborn babies in order to provide fatherly care for both mother and child.

“The circular emanated after the approval of the Public Service Rule 2021 at the Federal Executive Council; paternity leave wasn’t there in the last Public Service Rule 2008.

“It was reviewed, so following the review, it was necessary to include it in the Public Service Rule; it is one of the new items included in the new Public Service Rules 2021,” he said.

What impact has this leave created for male civil servants?

“It is most welcome; since we commenced implementation of the paternity leave, a lot of male civil servants have benefitted from it.

“People go on paternity leave and when they come back they are all beaming with smiles and you know it is new, we are beginning to see joy in the hearts of men.

“I tell you, taking care of four children myself, it is not easy for a mother, especially those that pass through caesarean section to cope alone.

“I wish we were able to make it one month; it would have been sweeter but 14 working days is like three weeks.

“I think it’s a very good beginning, maybe as time goes on the rule may be reviewed,” Nwaka said.

More so, a cross-section of views from male officers in federal establishments showed the challenges men faced combining work with the home front, especially during delivery and first few months with a newborn.

Mr Tomilayo Adedeji, an administrative officer and father of three, said he almost got a query from his office when his last child was born in 2019.

He opted for casual leave to attend the child’s naming ceremony.

“With my third child, I was called from the office that my wife had delivered so I rushed to the hospital.

“Because of running here and there to do some things, I couldn’t come to the office for two days; my supervisor then was very cross.

“I had to apply for casual leave for my child’s naming ceremony day.

“During that time, I could only help my wife during weekends and nights and sometimes she was too tired to attend to the baby because he wants to play at night.

“I would have to carry him and also attend to his older siblings; it took a toll on my job.

“Getting to the office I feel tired, worn out and mostly feel like sleeping but with paternity leave, fatherhood and bonding with a newborn will come easier.

“So I feel paternity leave is very good; it is key because there is a lot that men can achieve during that time,” Adedeji said.

Mr Mathew Anya, an engineer, said with every of his four children, he had to joggle running the home, hospital and meeting contract deadlines.

“The only thing that keeps me going at this time is the joy of having a baby and that my wife delivered safely.

“But like most men, we become lean, tired, don’t eat properly and are very distracted at work because your time is needed mostly at home.

“Women don’t understand that you need to work, they need you to be a husband and father,” Anya said.

On the medical standpoint, Dr Inyang Asuquo, a gynaecologist, highly recommends paternity leave for the well-being of the man, woman and newborn.

“The philosophy behind paternity leave is to give some ample time, though not enough, to be at home and support your wife or in the hospital if there are complications, and also bond with your child.

“Prior to this period where government did not consider paternity leave it was a real struggle for a lot of men who really understand the concept of marriage.

“As doctors, we hear and know a lot, so for the government to graciously approve this leave, our patients, the women, are happy. Their husbands now do much more for them.

“Paternity leave also goes a long way to help mothers with post-partum depression; with the presence of mind and body of their husbands, it is detected early and they can seek help.

“So we thank the Federal Government for this initiative,” Asuquo said.

Moreso, Neuroscience research shows that when fathers actively bond with their babies, the child’s brain develops more synaptic connections, leading to enhanced learning and emotional regulation later in life.

Successful father-infant bonding during the immediate postpartum period has been shown to have several benefits for the infant: it reduces cognitive delay, promotes weight gain in preterm infants, and improves breastfeeding rates.

Fathers engaging with their infants through skin-to-skin contact, feeding, and playtime contribute significantly to a baby’s neurological development.

By establishing an early connection, fathers help their children develop a sense of security, which translates to reduced stress and anxiety levels in the baby.

According to baby360.com, a platform that caters to parents from prenatal, postpartum to parenting with up-to-date maternity education materials, it also shows an increasing amount of research which suggests a strong correlation between early father-infant bonds and the happiness of the entire family.

Strong father-child bonds can help counter issues such as depression later on in life.

Men who report that they had a good relationship with their fathers during childhood were found to be better equipped to handle stress.

A child’s physical and mental development is significantly boosted when his dad has played with him from the start, compared to children whose fathers took a more hands-off approach.

Children who experienced close interactions with their fathers from an early age tend to be more successful academically, have better relationships with their peers and be less likely to get involved with crime or abuse drugs and alcohol.

For fathers, they experience less stress and increased confidence when they have their own special time with their newborns.

Actively participating in caregiving gives them a deeper sense of fulfilment and purpose. It also boosts their confidence as parents, helping them overcome societal stereotypes that often place fathers in secondary roles.

Besides, bonding helps dads develop empathy, patience, and a keen understanding of their baby’s nonverbal cues, strengthening their ability to nurture effectively.

In spite of the many benefits of paternity leave, the move is not welcome by all men in the federal service.

“I prefer it to be monetised; what some women want is not to see your face; they need money to cater to the bills and for pampers and baby food.

“What good is it hanging around the house for three weeks when you can’t provide for them, that will even cause undue stress for the man,” Mr Ahmed Lawal said.

Mr Adekunle Atolagbe shares Lawal’s views: “Except grandparents and in-laws are not in the picture to help out with the newborn, some men would find it difficult to be at home.

“And if they are around, the husband becomes an easy target for errands because they see you around, so I’d prefer to be at work to hustle for money to support them at home.

“Men are not cut out for care of newborns, many fathers are practically afraid of caring for newborns because they are so delicate,” he said.

Also, some women hope that husbands in the private sector and state government service would be given some relief and time to bond with their newborns.

They, however, are of the opinion that the men utilise it for the purpose.

“Fathers should be given three months’ paternity leave at least.

“But only for those who will truly help out at home because I don’t know what I would have done without my husband’s support,” Mrs Irene-Igho Effanga, a mother of triplets said.

In all, the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation and administrative arms of federal ministries, departments and agencies have the Public Service Rules for checks and balances and to review polices to help civil service officers bond better with their families.

Since government is a continuum, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, the current Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, has also pledged commitment to overhauling Nigeria’s civil service with a significant shift, just like the paternity leave, to ensure professionalism, efficiency and accountability, with commendable focus on the welfare and performance of civil servants. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

BEACON tasks Nigerians on blood donation to bridge supply gap
Health

BEACON tasks Nigerians on blood donation to bridge supply gap

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By Sani Idris

An NGO, Beacon of Transformative and Inclusive Development Centre (BEACON), has urged Nigerians to donate blood to help bridge the significant supply gap in the country.

The Executive Director, Mrs Abigail Olatunde, made the call in a statement in Kaduna on Saturday, to commemorate the World Blood Donor Day.

According to Olatunde, in spite of needing 1.8 million pints of blood annually, Nigeria collects less than 500,000 pints, leaving over 1.3 million people without access to blood when they need it most.

Olatunde lamented that the shortage had severe consequences including mothers dying in childbirth, children with sickle cell anemia going untreated, and innocent accident victims dying while waiting for blood.

She noted that such a scenario was not just a medical challenge, but a question of equity, access, and social protection.

“The cost of saving lives through blood donation is relatively small, with processing costing about N6,500 per unit in public systems.

“To close the national gap of 1.3 million pints will cost roughly N8.45 billion per year, that is less than 0.5 per cent of Nigeria’s federal health budget, and only seven per cent of Kaduna State’s health budget,”she said.

Olatunde, emphasised that the cost of saving lives through blood was small, but the cost of doing nothing was unbearable.

She said that around the world, countries were proving that the gap could be closed, adding that in India, mobile blood donation clinics and digital tracking platforms had scaled voluntary donation nationwide.

She also said that in Rwanda, centralised blood services had helped reach rural hospitals faster.

According to her, over 70 countries now meet nearly all blood demand through voluntary, unpaid donations supported by public investment.

“These are not perfect systems, but they show what is possible when leadership, funding, and public trust align”.

The executive director, therefore, called on the federal and state governments to invest strategically by allocating at least N8bn to N10 billion annually to national blood services

She also urged the governments to integrate emergency blood access into the National Health Insurance and primary healthcare systems,  calling on Nigerians to support voluntary blood donation through education, outreach, and donor recognition.

Olatunde equally called on communities, private sector partners, media and development agencies to support a culture of safe and voluntary blood donation, especially in underserved areas.(NAN)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka and Yakubu Uba

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