NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Ondo judiciary workers begin strike over financial autonomy

Ondo judiciary workers begin strike over financial autonomy

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By Alaba Olusola Oke

The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Ondo State Branch, has begun an indefinite strike over non implementation of financial autonomy by the state government.

The state Secretary of JUSUN, Mr Kehinde Alade, stated this in a statement on Friday in Akure.

The statement read: “I hereby notify you that we will commence our planned industrial action starting today, June 13, 2025.

“This decision follows the expiration of the seven-day ultimatum issued to the government of Ondo State on June 4, 2025.

“We perceived the lack of response from the government to address the reneged parts of the agreements outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on May 20, 2015.

“This MoU contains the release of funds to the Ondo State judiciary by the state government in line with judiciary financial autonomy.

“We, therefore, direct all our members to stay off duty starting from today, June 13, 2025, till further directive, and to adhere strictly to the industrial action guidelines.”

According to the statement, the continuous refusal by the state government to honour the agreements contained in the MoU has had adverse effects on the members.

It, therefore, urged the government to take immediate action to fulfil its obligations and implement the MoU to avoid further consequences. (NAN)(www.nannnews.ng)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

I have no regret naming international conference centre after Tinubu – Wike

I have no regret naming international conference centre after Tinubu – Wike

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By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, says he has no regret naming Abuja International Conference Centre after President Bola Tinubu.

Wike said this in Abuja on Friday, during the inauguration of the completed 15-kilometre left hand service carriage way of OSEX Stage II, from Ring Road I to Wassa Junction.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that criticism followed the naming of the rehabilitated Abuja International Conference Centre after Tinubu, shortly after it was reopened on Tuesday.

Others described expending N39 billion to renovate the edifice as a misplaced priority.

Reacting, Wike wondered why some people were criticising the naming of the conference centre after Tinubu.

According to him, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was not built by Azikiwe and Moshood Abiola National Stadium was not built by Abiola.

He added that those criticising the rehabilitation of the centre do not have good taste.

“I have done it, and I have no regret at all,” Wike said.

He said that the only thing that was not changed in the centre was the structure saying, “everything in that centre was changed”.

He expressed dismay that instead of commending Tinubu for doing very well, some people derived pleasure in indulging in baseless criticism.

Wike said those who described the N39 billion spent on the renovation of the centre as a misplaced priority had lost track of time and the changing exchange rate of Naira to a Dollar.

“They said that the centre was built with N240 million, but which year? 1991.

“What was the exchange rate in 1991 compared with today? Look at it, 1991 and we are now in 2025.

“Nobody who loves this country will criticise the rehabilitation of the international conference centre,” he said.

The minister said that Nigeria was seen as the giant of Africa, adding that people must see what makes the country the giant of Africa.

“We deserve the best for the country and Mr President has given us the best,” he said.

Analysis: Nigerian Albinos and struggle against skin cancer

Analysis: Nigerian Albinos and struggle against skin cancer

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In Nigeria, a silent struggle for survival unfolds daily for thousands living with albinism.

Their unique genetic makeup, which lacks melanin (pigmentation), leaves them acutely vulnerable to the scorching sun.

This vulnerability tragically results in skin cancer claiming no fewer than two lives every month, says Bisi Bamishe, National President of the Albinism Association of Nigeria.

Bamishe describes the community as being “under siege’’, with countless others battling for their lives in hospitals or languishing at home without adequate medical care or hope.

Bamishe deeply laments the severe lack of structured interventions.

She highlights the urgent need for free or subsidised skin cancer treatments, consistent distribution of preventive measures like high-SPF (20-30) broad-spectrum sunscreens, protective clothing, UV-protective sunglasses, and specialised annual dermatological and eye examinations.

The prohibitive costs associated with these essential measures place them far beyond the financial reach of most of Nigeria’s estimated two million persons with albinism (PWAs).

The Founder of The Albino Foundation (TAF), Mr Jake Epelle, also affirms that persons with albinism in Nigeria always have to contend with some health challenges due to the genetic condition they have.

Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited condition present at birth.

It results in a lack of melanin in the hair, skin, and eyes, making individuals highly susceptible to sun and bright light.

Consequently, almost all people with albinism have visual challenges and prone to developing skin cancer.

While albinism affects approximately 1 in 20,000 individuals worldwide, Nigeria has one of the highest prevalence globally.

The country’s tropical climate, with its intense sunlight, places PWAs at heightened risk of skin cancer.

A UN study reveals that most people with albinism in Nigeria die from skin cancer before age 40.

Skin cancer, caused by DNA damage often from sun exposure, is treatable if caught early, but the lack of access to care is a significant barrier.

Nigeria has fewer than 125 dermatologists for a population exceeding 220 million, creating a dire ratio of roughly one dermatologist for every 1.1 million people.

These specialists are also concentrated in urban areas, further hindering access for PWAs in rural regions.

Beyond the severe health challenges, albinism in Nigeria also presents a unique set of social stigma and discrimination challenges.

These pervasive issues impact various aspects of their lives, including education, employment, and overall well-being.

There is an urgent call to action.

The International Albinism Awareness Day, observed annually on June 13, with the 2025 theme “Demanding our rights: Protect our skin, Preserve our lives,” underscores the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and accessible healthcare.

The theme calls on authorities to take steps to prevent skin cancer-related deaths, including skin cancer screening and the provision of sunscreen, and to add sunscreen to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Essential Medicines List.

According to the National Organisation for Albinism and Hypopigmentation, the failure to prevent these foreseeable yet preventable deaths among persons with albinism constitutes not only a violation of the right to health but also the right to life.

Stakeholders are advocating for improved education and awareness among PWAs and the public on early detection, preventive measures, and available treatment options.

They also push for integrating skin cancer treatment into the National Health Insurance Scheme.

For persons with albinism, the time for mere discussions has passed.

They demand tangible, swift, and decisive actions from governments, health authorities, and all stakeholders to combat this preventable loss of life.

The community’s survival hinges on urgent, comprehensive action. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Wike promises to dualised Apo to Wassa road  

Wike promises to dualised Apo to Wassa road  

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By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, says the FCT Administration will dualise the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Apo to Wassa Junction.

Wike stated this in Abuja on Friday, during the inauguration of the completed 15-kilometre left hand service carriage way of OSEX Stage II, from Ring Road I to Wassa Junction.

He said that the step was to eliminate any form of traffic congestion on the expressway, increase vehicular movement and promote economic activities.

He said that the left-hand service carriage way of OSEX was awarded in 2017 at N6 billion and after variation in 2021, the contract sum increased to N21 billion.

The minister explained that on assumption into office in August 2023, he noticed that the road was in a bad state, the project was abandoned due to lack of funds.

He said that the right-hand service carriageway was facing heavy vehicular traffic and slowing down economic activities.

The minister explained that the decision to complete the project was part of President Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to complete all ongoing projects.

“The Apo to Wassa road project is one of such projects.

“I promised the contractor that we will make money available and to the glory of God today, we are here to inaugurate the road,” he said.

The minister said that the completed road would improve connectivity, ease traffic movement from Apo to Wassa and link Takushara and Kabusa communities.

“This is what has been lacking, and Tinubu has made it very clear that his drive is not just to develop the city but to open up rural communities for development,” he said.

He said that part of the funds used in constructing the road was from ground rent and urged FCT residents to continue to pay their taxes to enable the FCT Administration undertake more infrastructural development projects.

Wike thanked Tinubu and the National Assembly for all the support that translates to success being recorded.

The minister also promised to relocate Apo Mechanic traders and artisans from the OSEX road corridor to Wassa, adding that he would not only supervise the process, but chair the exercise.

Inaugurating the road, Tinubu said that the road from Apo to Wassa Junction was a significant addition to the road network in the heart of Abuja.

Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the president said, “this very vital infrastructure fully demonstrates our commitment which is the voice of the President now.

“It demonstrates our commitment to sustainable urban development, enhanced mobility, and improved quality of life for the people of the FCT.

“The OSEX is Abuja’s key transport backbone. It connects the city centre to rapidly growing districts,” he said.

The FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, said that the project stands as a testament to the Tinubu administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda”.

Mahmoud said that the administration was delivering not just roads but new possibilities, enhanced mobility, and economic opportunities for FCT residents.

Earlier, Mr Richard Dauda, Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, said that the OSEX was a 10-lane expressway with two main carriageways of three lanes and two service carriageways of two lanes.

Dauda explained that the about 60-kilometre OSEX commences from the Villa Roundabout to Apo through Kuje and connects Abuja to Lokoja expressway at A2 in Gwagwalada.

He said that the road was being developed in stages, adding that the first stage from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road I was completed and inaugurated in 2024.

“The right-hand service carriageway to Wassa Junction had been completed and now the 15-kilometre left hand service carriageway was equally completed and inaugurated today,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the left-hand service carriage way of OSEX was the third project that was inaugurated out of the 17 projects outlined for inauguration to celebrate Tinubu’s second year in office. (NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Albinism: First Lady reaffirms support for inclusive policies

Albinism: First Lady reaffirms support for inclusive policies

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By Celine-Damilola Oyewole

As today marks International Albinism Awareness Day, the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of persons living with albinism across the country.

The First Lady expressed solidarity with Nigeria’s albino community as they join the global observance of the day.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2025 theme is: “Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives.”

Sen. Tinubu described the theme as a powerful call to action, emphasising that persons with albinism deserved not only equal rights but also dignity, safety, and access to quality healthcare.

“I reaffirm my commitment to advocating for inclusive policies and public education that protect the rights of persons with albinism.

“We must build a society where every Nigerian, regardless of skin condition, can thrive with pride and dignity,” she added.

NAN also reports that Nigeria’s albino community recently launched a national campaign aimed at ending discrimination against persons with albinism. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

NIM hosts chess tournament to boost critical thinking in students

NIM hosts chess tournament to boost critical thinking in students

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

 

The Nigerian Institute of Management Chartered (NIM) has hosted a chess tournament to stimulate critical thinking in primary and secondary school students in Lagos State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the tournament is an advocacy initiative of the institute in partnership with Dynamic Chess Ville, a chess foundation.

The President of NIM, retired Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, said at the invitational chess competition on Thursday in Lagos that the competition brought together young chess talents to interact and gain exposure.

He said that the tournament was the maiden edition and designed to promote inclusivity and nurture key life skills such as strategic thinking, discipline and sportsmanship through the game of chess.

“It also seeks to foster spirit of healthy competition, empower young minds and celebrate intellectual excellence.

“At the end of today’s competition, trophies, medals and prize money will be won while the participating schools will receive certificate of participation,” he said.

Ayuba said that the winner in the primary school category would win N150,000 while the first runner up would go home with N100,000, and second runner up, N50,000.

He said that in the secondary school category, the winner would get N200,000 while first and second runners up would get N150,000 and N100,000, respectively.

Ayuba said that from 2026, the institute would consider expanding the scope of the competition to make it a national event.

“What we have done is to create a garden of future champions in chess where they can be groomed to do exploits internationally,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr Tolulope Fasinu, Managing Director, Dynamic Chess Ville, said the tournament served as an opportunity to invest in the development of schoolchildren.

Fasinu said that chess was an important sport as it helped to improve cognitive abilities and calculation skills, boost self confidence and sharpen decision making skills.

He urged governments and corporate organisations to invest in chess to widen its reach, improve it outcomes and encourage participation in chess competitions at the global level.

NAN reports that the participating schools in the primary category include Chess in Slums Africa, Indian Language School, Bethany Hall School, and Home Science Association Nursery and Primary School.

The others are Dupeola Childrenland School, Dansol Nursery and Primary School,Favour of God International School, and Priceless Jewel Elementary School.

In the secondary school category, the participating schools include Chess in Slums Africa, Indian Language School, Home Science Association Secondary School, Grenville School, Kings College and Queens College.

The others are Value Place School, Favour of God International School, Chess with Laura and Dynamic Chess Ville.

In the primary school category, Bethany Hall School secured the first position while Chess in Slums Africa and Home Science Association Nursery and Primary School emerged second and third, respectively.

In the secondary school category, Home Science Association Secondary School took the first position while Indian Language School and Dynamic Chess Ville came second and third, respectively. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

 

NNPC Ltd. records N5.8bn revenue, N748bn PAT in April

NNPC Ltd. records N5.8bn revenue, N748bn PAT in April

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By Emmanuella Anokam

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has announced a revenue of N5.89 billion and a Profit After Tax (PAT) of N748 billion for the month of April.

The NNPC Ltd. disclosed this in its Monthly Report Summary for April.

The report highlights key statistics, including crude oil and condensate production, natural gas output, revenue, profit after tax and strategic initiatives during the period.

The report said that NNPC Ltd made statutory payments of N4.22 billion between January and March.

According to the report, crude oil and gas figures are provisional and reflect only NNPC Limited’s data.

It said that it excluded volumes of independent operators reported by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

“Crude oil and condensate production averaged 1.606 million barrels per day (bpd) in April, while natural gas production was 7.354 million standard cubic feet daily.

“Petrol availability at the NNPC Ltd. retail stations recorded 54 per cent during the month under review, while upstream pipeline reliability was 97 per cent,” it said.

On its strategic efforts, it said that the company was collaborating with Venture Partners to accelerate Sustainable Production Enhancement.

It said that it completed the implementation of relevant presidential directives and Executive Orders for its upstream operations.

The report listed some Technical Interventions on Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) gas pipeline to resolve challenges of River Niger crossings.

It said that the OB3 gas pipeline project was 95 per cent completed in the month, while the AKK pipeline was 70 per cent completed.

The report said that Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) was completed in several Oil Mining Leases (OML), including OML 18, OML 58, OML 118, and OML 133.

On Refineries Status, it said that the Port Harcourt Refinery Company (PHRC), as well as the Warri and Kaduna refineries were currently under review.

According to the report, all financial figures are provisional and unaudited, and all operational and financial data are for April unless indicated otherwise. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Football fans call for equal pay for Super Falcons

Football fans call for equal pay for Super Falcons

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By Vivian Ahanmisi

Some football fans have raised concerns about the stark differences in earnings, allowances, and match bonuses between the Super Eagles and the Super Falcons players.

Speaking in Lagos, some of the fans told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) they were unhappy with the current situation.

The inequality has ignited widespread debate, with many Nigerians calling for equal pay and fair treatment for both national teams.

Former international footballer, Azuka Izu, criticised the disparity, saying the Super Falcons do not receive the same level of support from football authorities as the Super Eagles.

He stressed that both teams bring honour to Nigeria and deserve equal recognition and compensation for their efforts and achievements.

“It’s unfair that the Super Falcons earn far less than the Super Eagles,” Izu said, expressing frustration over the ongoing inequality.

He believes the issue stems from a longstanding bias toward men’s football, in spite of the Falcons’ strong and consistent performances over the years.

“Though the Eagles generate more revenue, that shouldn’t overshadow what the Falcons have achieved for Nigeria,” he added.

He insisted on equal pay, saying the Falcons’ commitment, talent, and success merit the same treatment given to the Eagles.

He also called for increased investment in the Falcons, so they can grow and compete effectively on the global stage.

“Let’s close the gap and support women’s football more in Nigeria,” he urged.

Similarly, Abdulrahman Gbadamosi, coach of Sebioba Football Club in Ibadan, described the disparity as unjust, given the Falcons’ accomplishments.

He argued that the Super Falcons’ 11 continental titles between 1991 and 2018 prove their excellence and deserve appropriate reward.

He noted that while Super Eagles players earn high match bonuses, Falcons players often receive little or none in comparison.

Gbadamosi suggested improved marketing of women’s football could increase revenue and attract greater support for the female team.

He cited the United States’ equal pay model for male and female teams as an example Nigeria should consider adopting.

“There must be fairness and respect for the Falcons. Their contribution to Nigerian football is immense,” he said.

He emphasised the urgent need to address the issue, in spite of differing public opinions on the subject.

“We must prioritise support for women’s football and ensure players are compensated fairly,” he added.

He urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to close the pay gap and guarantee equal opportunities for both teams.

He also called for more investment in women’s football to help close the gap and promote gender equality.

Football analyst, Monday Izegagbe, raised another concern: inadequate preparation for the women’s championship beginning on 5 July 2025.

“With only weeks left, no serious preparations have been made. This shows how poorly the Falcons are treated,” he said.

In spite of their achievements, he said the Super Falcons have long faced neglect from the NFF regarding commitment and investment.

Izegagbe cited issues such as poor training facilities, inadequate accommodation, and lack of proper funding as recurring problems.

“They deserve better. They proudly represent Nigeria but receive very little in return,” he said.

He stressed the importance of addressing systemic challenges affecting the growth of women’s football in Nigeria.

“Women’s football needs more than words. The NFF must show genuine support and long-term commitment,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Delegates laud Nigeria for iconic hosting of UN 68th CAF meeting

Delegates laud Nigeria for iconic hosting of UN 68th CAF meeting

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By Joshua Olomu

 

Delegates and other participants have commended Nigeria for successfully hosting the 68th Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), describing it as memorable.

 

They gave the commendation in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the red carpet of the closing Gala on Thursday night.

 

The 68th CAF was held between June 11 and June 13 in Abuja, with the theme “Boosting Social Impact and Education on Tourism through AI, Innovation and Creative Industries in Africa”.

 

It brought together top government officials across Africa, including Ministers of Tourism and other key players in the tourism industry within the continent and beyond.

 

Some of the stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the event was iconic and it would leave a lasting impact on participants and the industry.

 

Elcia Grandcourt, UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa, said: I must say we had a very interesting and successful meeting in these two days.

 

“I want to take this opportunity to thank our host, the Federal Government of Nigeria, especially, Hanatu Musa Musawa, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy of Nigeria.

 

“She has wonderfully hosted us and chaired beautifully this meeting that has brought about ministers of tourism from the Africa region.

 

“Over these two days, we discussed matters related to the programme of work of Africa, but more so , looking at how we are integrating artificial intelligence and digital transformation within the tourism sector.

 

“As you know, Nigeria is a hub, a hotspot for creativity; we also used these two days to host a technical workshop that has further built up the capacity of young leaders in Nigeria’s tourism sector.

 

“Once again, this has been a very successful event.”

 

Mr Chuks Anyaduba, curator of the Flavours of Nigeria Festival in Ontario, Canada, congratulated the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy of Nigeria and her team for the historic event.

 

He said hosting culture and tourism stakeholders across Africa and beyond would resonate and further amplify Nigeria’s rich culture and tourism potential on the global stage.

 

“I want to say that Nigeria has actually had a successful hosting of this UN World Tourism event for Africa, and I believe that a benchmark has been placed.

 

“Our government just needs to be smarter by putting more money in tourism in Nigeria, with the National Assembly should have a larger budget for the ministry.

 

“This is very important so that we can actually sell the Nigerian stories as captured in the Destination 2030- Nigeria Everywhere agenda of the ministry,” he said.

 

Rodney Sikumba,Minister of Tourism and Wildlife, Republic of Zambia, said the meeting offered unique opportunities for ministers of tourism across the continent to form a common front for Africa’s tourism.

 

Sikumba, who was elected at the meeting as Chairperson for the UN CAF for 2025-2027, said the event has set a new phase for collaborations in regional tourism.

 

“When I talk about a united Africa, I am talking about an Africa which is actually championing a cause that will shepherd this particular continent to for better.

 

“As African ministers in charge of tourism, we are here to discuss matters of common cause, which is obviously to champion what we are trying to achieve within the tourism sector.

 

“I am very delighted that this year’s CAF is actually being hosted by Abuja, in Abuja, Nigeria.

 

“For a very long time, we’ve been competing as African countries, but now we are here to discuss matters of common cause and to form formidable collaborations,” he said.

 

Earlier in her opening remarks, Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, said the future of African prosperity depends on how its culture, creativity and technology are harnessed to empower people.

 

She, therefore, urged her colleagues to work toward strengthening ties among Africa states for the continent to stand tall on the global tourism index.

 

“I feel that there is a new path for tourism in Africa, and it’s amazing that myself and other ministers of tourism have really gotten along in a way that we now share a common vision.

 

“I promise you, together we are going to be very aggressive in ensuring that we really give our continent a sort of value and unlock its fully for tourism,” she said.(NAN)(nannews.ng)

 

 

 

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Mental health advocate charges mothers to break silence on postpartum 

Mental health advocate charges mothers to break silence on postpartum 

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By Gbenga Dada/Oluwafunke Ishola

 

 

A mental health advocate, Mrs Chioma Ezeakonobi, has advised new mothers to break the silence surrounding postpartum depression, saying this will enable them to receive support during their healing journey.

 

Ezeakonobi spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lagos, while sharing her personal struggle with postpartum depression, a mental health condition that affects many women worldwide.

 

According to her, the condition is an underdiagnosed and underrated illness in many countries in spite of the danger it portends for ill health and death.

 

“The cycle of silence attached to postpartum depression leaves many women to suffer in silence,” she said.

 

Narrating her experience, Ezeakonobi disclosed that it began after the birth of her second child, saying she experienced anxiety, tearfulness, fatigue, and persistent sadness.

 

In spite of her struggles, Ezeakonobi said she found solace in gaining knowledge about the condition and managing it on her own.

 

“With the support of my family, particularly my husband, I was able to cope with the condition.”

 

Her experience inspired her to create awareness about postpartum depression, and wrote a book titled “Navigating Postpartum Depression”.

 

The book is a compilation of her experience and those of other mothers, who have gone through similar struggles.

 

Ezeakonobi aims to use her platform to advocate and break the silence surrounding postpartum depression and support women worldwide.

 

She urged pregnant women and new mothers to be aware of the symptoms of the condition and seek care and support when needed.

 

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), postpartum depression is a common and treatable mental health condition affecting women after childbirth.

 

It can negatively impact both the mother’s well-being and the child’s development.

 

Postpartum depression involves emotional highs and lows, frequent crying, fatigue, guilt and anxiety, affecting about one in seven new moms.

 

In Nigeria, its prevalence rates range from 10 per cent to 36.5 per cent.

 

WHO emphasises the importance of screening and early intervention for postpartum depression, along with providing effective treatments and support services for affected mothers. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Folasade Adeniran

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