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Chikwe Ihekweazu appointed acting WHO regional director for Africa

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Chikwe Ihekweazu has been appointed as the acting regional director of the World Health Organization (WHO) for Africa,Thecable reports.

A former director-general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ihekweazu was appointed on Tuesday during the ongoing 156th session of the WHO executive board in Geneva, Switzerland.

Announcing the appointment, WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed confidence in Ihekweazu’s leadership, stating that Africa is in “capable hands” for the next four months. A new regional director for Africa is set to be elected in May 2025.

Ihekweazu succeeds Matshidiso Moeti, who has completed her tenure. Reflecting on her time in office, Moeti expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with dedicated colleagues, partners, and communities.

ALSO READ: Tinubu rejects bill to establish university of education in Adamawa

“To our Member States, I extend my heartfelt thanks. Your courage, resilience, and determination have inspired me every day,” she wrote on X. “Over the past decade, we have worked together to strengthen health systems, advance universal health coverage, and expand access to care. Our successes would not have been possible without our partners’ technical and financial support.”

Ihekweazu, appointed in 2021 as WHO’s assistant director-general for health emergency intelligence, is an infectious disease epidemiologist with over 20 years of experience in senior public health and leadership roles. He has worked at major public health institutions, including the South African National Institute for Communicable Diseases, the UK’s Health Protection Agency, and Germany’s Robert Koch Institute.

Tinubu rejects bill to establish university of education in Adamawa

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declined to assent to the bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Education, Numan, in Adamawa State,Daily Trust reports.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajuddeen, and read by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu during Tuesday’s plenary, Tinubu outlined his reasons for rejecting the bill.

ALSO READ: El-Rufai blasts Uba Sani, says ‘The people of Kaduna will judge’

One of his key concerns was that Section 22 of the bill grants authority over land disposal to the state governor rather than the President, which contradicts legal provisions governing federal institutions. Additionally, Tinubu pointed out that Section 25(b) of the bill failed to include a provision for awarding degrees by the proposed university.

The House had passed the bill last year and forwarded it to the President for approval, but it has now been returned due to these concerns.

El-Rufai blasts Uba Sani, says ‘The people of Kaduna will judge’

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Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has taken a swipe at his successor, Governor Uba Sani.

El-Rufai, who was blocked from becoming a minister in 2023 by opponents within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has recently become an outspoken critic of both the party and President Bola Tinubu’s administration,Daily Trust reports.

Speaking at an event in Abuja last week, El-Rufai criticized several aspects of the ruling party and the current government. However, in a TVC interview, Governor Sani countered his predecessor’s remarks, questioning what critics of the president did differently when they were in power.

According to Sani, no Nigerian president has upheld democratic principles as strongly as Tinubu.

ALSO READ: Kano Gov’t Probes Deadly Clash During Demolition Exercise

“Most of these politicians forming coalitions today were in government less than two years ago. What did they achieve during their time in office? They were more focused on power struggles than making meaningful changes. No president in Nigeria’s history has truly practiced democracy like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Sani said.

In response, El-Rufai, in a post on X titled Kaduna Update, accused Sani of engaging in “embarrassingly sycophantic rambling” on a daily basis.

“I used to wonder why. However, the revelation that the Federal Government has selectively given Kaduna State over N150 billion in reimbursements, interventions, and grants in the last 18 months now explains everything,” he wrote.

He added, “Defend Asiwaju’s conditional cash transfer all you want—he has earned it coming from you. The people of Kaduna State will judge when the time is right. Have a nice day. – #ConcernedKadunaCitizen.”

In another post, El-Rufai quoted former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, emphasizing the importance of governance in improving citizens’ lives.

“In a developing nation where people struggle for basic necessities—food, education, healthcare, and survival—government service delivery can be the difference between hope and despair,” he quoted.

Tensions between Sani and El-Rufai emerged shortly after the former assumed office. However, when asked about the rift, Sani denied any conflict, insisting that his relationship with El-Rufai remains cordial.

“I can tell you there’s no problem between me and my predecessor. Our relationship is very cordial, and there’s nothing wrong with it. What matters most is moving our state forward,” Sani stated.

Kano Gov’t Probes Deadly Clash During Demolition Exercise

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Kano State Government Launches Investigation into Deadly Clash During Demolition Exercise

The Kano State Government has initiated an investigation into the violent clash that erupted during a demolition exercise in Rimin Zakara, Ungogo Local Government Area, resulting in four deaths,leadership reports.

Reports indicate that the confrontation occurred on Sunday night when officials from the State’s Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, accompanied by security personnel, arrived at the site around 10 p.m. to demolish over 40 properties. Residents fiercely resisted the demolition, leading to violent unrest.

During the chaos, security operatives allegedly discharged firearms, causing fatalities.

ALSO READ: Traditional Ruler Kidnapped, Okada Rider shot dead In Edo

Speaking to journalists on Monday, the State’s Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Abdullahi Wayya, confirmed the launch of an investigation. He clarified that the disputed land belongs to Bayero University Kano (BUK) but has been occupied by settlers for over 40 years.

“Previous administrations attempted to resolve the dispute without success. However, during the last council meeting, Governor Yusuf reaffirmed that the land rightfully belongs to BUK and directed authorities to assist the university in reclaiming it,” Wayya stated.

He further revealed that the settlers were issued a notice to vacate before the demolition, but they refused to comply. “They ignored the notice and even attacked some officers involved in the demolition, which led to the deadly confrontation,” he added.

While the full details of the incident are still being determined, Wayya confirmed that weapons were fired during the clash. Several officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

To ensure transparency and justice, the government has set up a committee to thoroughly investigate the incident.

“The committee will examine the circumstances surrounding the demolition, the resistance from the community, and the actions of the security operatives involved,” Wayya assured.

Traditional Ruler Kidnapped, Okada Rider shot dead In Edo

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The traditional ruler of Udo-Eguare, His Royal Highness Friday Ehizojie, Onojie, in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State, has been kidnapped,Daily Trust reports.

Reports indicate that he was abducted in a forested area between Ubiaja, near Rest House Junction, and Udo community. The attackers allegedly ambushed him, killing a motorcycle rider before taking the traditional ruler captive.

Sources further revealed that five other individuals were kidnapped alongside the ruler, though one reportedly managed to escape.

The spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident, stating that a report was received regarding the abduction of several persons, including the Onogie of Udo-Eguare and a 21-year-old man.

ALSO READ: Malaria, HIV, TB, Lassa Fever Remain Endemic In Nigeria

“He was a passenger on a motorcycle along a secluded path leading to the community when they were ambushed by unknown gunmen. In the process, the motorcycle rider was shot dead before the Onogie was taken,” Yamu explained.

In response, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams, including the Police Mobile Force, to the area to secure the victims’ release and apprehend the perpetrators.

The Area Commander is reportedly on the ground, personally leading the operation as directed by the Commissioner of Police.

Malaria, HIV, TB, Lassa Fever Remain Endemic In Nigeria

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Nigeria’s Struggle Against Endemic Diseases: Malaria, HIV/AIDS, Lassa Fever, and Tuberculosis Persist

Nigeria remains far from winning the battle against several deadly diseases that have become endemic, despite ongoing efforts to combat them,leadership reports.

An investigation by LEADERSHIP Weekend revealed that malaria, HIV/AIDS, Lassa fever, and tuberculosis (TB) continue to take a devastating toll, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives annually. Experts cite systemic failures, environmental factors, and gaps in healthcare infrastructure as key reasons for their persistence.

ALSO READ: Ex-Minister: Ignorance behind opposition to Sharia Panels in South-West

Malaria: The Leading Cause of Death

Malaria remains Nigeria’s deadliest disease, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating that the country accounts for 31% of global malaria deaths. Annually, over 200,000 Nigerians succumb to the disease.

Despite the availability of insecticide-treated nets and other preventive measures, poor sanitation, stagnant water, and limited access to healthcare services continue to fuel its spread.

A report by Malaria No More UK highlights the economic impact of malaria eradication, estimating that Africa’s GDP could increase by $126.9 billion if the UN achieves its goal of reducing malaria cases by 90% by 2030. This would contribute nearly $16 billion annually to African economies.

HIV/AIDS: A Lingering Public Health Crisis

Nigeria remains the country with the highest HIV burden in West and Central Africa, with approximately 1.9 million people living with the virus as of 2022. Stigma, misinformation, and limited access to healthcare contribute to about 400,000 new infections annually, with nearly 200,000 recorded cases.

Nigeria heavily relies on international support, particularly from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which covers nearly 90% of treatment costs. Concerns arose following a temporary freeze on U.S. foreign aid, but a waiver granted on January 28, 2025, ensured continued funding for lifesaving antiretroviral (ARV) medications.

The Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Temitope Ilori, reassured the public that treatment services would continue uninterrupted and urged stakeholders to remain committed to combating the epidemic.

Lassa Fever: A Persistent Threat

Lassa fever remains a major public health concern, with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reporting over 7,000 confirmed cases in 2024. The disease has a high fatality rate of approximately 20% and is most prevalent in Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi states.

Experts warn that weak surveillance systems and inadequate rodent control efforts contribute to the recurring outbreaks.

“We need to strengthen early detection mechanisms and improve community engagement to prevent outbreaks,” health officials advised.

Tuberculosis: A Neglected Epidemic

Nigeria ranks among the top 10 countries globally with the highest TB burden, recording over 200,000 new cases annually. Delayed diagnosis and limited access to treatment contribute to a high mortality rate.

Stakeholders attribute the spread of TB to overcrowded living conditions, poverty, and inadequate healthcare services. While the government has introduced free TB testing and treatment programs, these initiatives are often hindered by insufficient funding and logistical challenges.

Experts Call for Solutions

Health experts agree that stronger policies, increased funding, and greater public awareness are critical in reducing Nigeria’s disease burden and preventing avoidable deaths.

Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa, Director-General of the Nigerian Medical Research Institute (NMRI), emphasized the need for public education and tighter drug regulation.

“People need to be discouraged from buying medications from street vendors and unlicensed chemists,” he warned.

He also highlighted Nigeria’s heavy reliance on international donors, noting that 95% of NMRI’s funding comes from organizations like WHO and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

“We need increased domestic funding to support research into pressing health challenges,” he added.

Malaria Vaccine Offers Hope

Professor Wellington Oyibo, a medical parasitologist at the University of Lagos, described Nigeria’s malaria mortality rate as the highest in the world.

“Over the past decade, more than 80,000 deaths have been recorded annually due to malaria,” he stated.

However, he expressed optimism about the introduction of malaria vaccines, predicting a significant reduction in fatalities.

“At least four out of ten children will be protected from death, while six out of ten will avoid severe forms of malaria,” he explained.

He urged the private sector to play a more active role in malaria eradication, similar to its involvement in combating COVID-19.

Dr. Michael Charles, CEO of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria, stressed the need for more investment in malaria control efforts.

“Malaria is preventable and treatable, yet it continues to claim lives and hinder economic progress. The investment gap remains a major challenge,” he said.

Environmental and Socioeconomic Challenges

Omolola Lana, Executive Director of the Westfield Development Initiative, pointed out that poverty and environmental conditions significantly contribute to the persistence of these diseases.

“Many Nigerians live in areas with poor sanitation and stagnant water, creating ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes,” she said.

She also noted that many people fail to use long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) despite their effectiveness.

“To address this challenge, we launched a project where we monitored recipients of LLINs to ensure they used them. Within six months, malaria cases dropped significantly in those communities,” she revealed.

Lana called for more awareness campaigns to promote the use of treated nets and emphasized the need to refocus efforts on malaria eradication following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Now that we have won the war against COVID-19, it is time to renew the fight against malaria,” she concluded.

Ex-Minister: Ignorance behind opposition to Sharia Panels in South-West

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Former Minister Adebayo Shittu Defends Sharia Panels in South-West, Dismisses Opposition as Ignorance

Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has weighed in on the ongoing debate over the establishment of Sharia panels in the South-West, describing the opposition as a result of ignorance,Daily Trust reports.

The controversy stems from plans to introduce Sharia panels in Oyo State and other parts of the region. In Ekiti, where such a panel was set up, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, summoned the Chief Imam of Ado Ekiti, Shaykh Jamiu Kewulere, and ordered its disbandment.

Some Yoruba activists have also voiced strong opposition, arguing that the Yoruba people uphold a secular tradition. They claim that Sharia-compliant states in Nigeria are plagued by insecurity, including religious conflicts, killings, and kidnappings, making the introduction of such panels a potential source of instability.

ALSO READ: Counterfeit Drugs: NAFDAC Seals 1,125 Stores, 62 Factories, 108 Warehouses

However, Muslim leaders have defended the initiative, clarifying that these panels serve only as arbitration bodies to handle civil matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance among Muslims.

Speaking on the issue during a television interview, Shittu criticized the opposition, attributing it to a lack of understanding of Nigeria’s constitution.

“In Yorubaland, whether it’s the governors or so-called Yoruba activists, their problem is ignorance of the Nigerian Constitution,” he said.

He emphasized that Sharia law falls under fundamental human rights as it pertains to religion, with the constitution guaranteeing freedom of thought, conscience, and religious practice.

“What sense does it make for two Muslims who marry under Sharia law in a mosque to be forced to resolve their divorce in a Customary Court, which may be presided over by Christians, animists, or people unfamiliar with Islamic law?” Shittu questioned.

He further pointed out that Sharia panels have been operational in Oyo and Lagos states for over a decade without any controversy or crisis, and no non-Muslim has ever been subjected to them.

“These religious rights are fundamental and constitutionally guaranteed, whether in Ekiti or elsewhere. People have the right to decide under which legal framework they govern their personal affairs,” he added.

Shittu urged the Muslim community in the affected states to challenge any attempts to interfere with their religious rights through legal action.

Counterfeit Drugs: NAFDAC Seals 1,125 Stores, 62 Factories, 108 Warehouses

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Nigeria’s Battle Against Counterfeit Drugs Continues Amid Legal and Enforcement Challenges

Despite intensified efforts to curb counterfeit drugs, unregistered pharmaceuticals, and illicit drug activities in Nigeria, the trade remains rampant, posing serious risks to public health,leadership reports.

Data from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) reveals that in 2022 and 2023, the agency sealed hundreds of illegal drug outlets, arrested offenders, and destroyed substandard products worth over N21 billion.

During this period, 1,125 drug stores selling unregistered products were shut down, along with 62 factories involved in illicit drug production. Additionally, 108 warehouses storing unauthorized pharmaceuticals were sealed. In total, 412 individuals were arrested in connection with these offenses and are currently facing prosecution.

ALSO READ: Nigerians lament corruption but defend corrupt leaders – EFCC Chair

NAFDAC reported that the total street value of the destroyed counterfeit products amounted to N21.159 billion.

Beyond the economic impact, the health consequences of counterfeit drugs are devastating. Patients unknowingly consuming fake or substandard medications risk severe complications, treatment failures, and even death, further straining Nigeria’s already overburdened healthcare system. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in ten medical products in low- and middle-income countries is either substandard or falsified, and Nigeria is no exception.

NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate (IED), established in 2001, has been at the forefront of combating substandard and falsified drugs, as well as other unregulated products. However, the agency faces significant legal hurdles in prosecuting offenders. Under current laws, penalties for selling counterfeit drugs include a maximum fine of N500,000 and up to 15 years in prison—punishments experts argue are far too lenient given the scale of the crime.

NAFDAC’s Public Relations Officer in Lagos, Mrs. Christy Obiazikwor, criticized the weak legal framework, stating, “The current laws do not act as a deterrent. Offenders can simply pay a small fine and walk free, which undermines our efforts to combat drug counterfeiting.”

She also highlighted the slow judicial process, noting that some cases have dragged on for more than a decade. “We have cases dating back to 2010 that are still unresolved,” she lamented.

To address these issues, NAFDAC is advocating for legal reforms. Proposed amendments currently before the National Assembly seek to impose stricter penalties on drug counterfeiters.

The National Treasurer of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Kilani Jelili, condemned counterfeit drug dealers, likening them to hired killers. “These individuals prioritize profit over human lives. No trained pharmacist would ever engage in such activities,” he said. Jelili, who also serves as a deputy director at the National Hospital, Abuja, stressed that many counterfeiters are untrained individuals who exploit rudimentary pharmaceutical knowledge for illegal production.

Legal expert and managing partner at Magna Legalese Limited, Suleiman Hassan Gimba, described Nigeria’s fight against counterfeit drugs as yielding mixed results. He acknowledged that NAFDAC’s regulatory efforts have led to significant seizures, yet fake medicines remain widespread, accounting for an estimated 15-17 percent of drugs in circulation, according to WHO’s 2023 report.

Gimba identified three major obstacles hindering Nigeria’s fight against counterfeit drugs: porous borders that facilitate smuggling, corruption within regulatory and enforcement agencies, and weak inter-agency coordination.

Comparing Nigeria’s penalties with those of other countries, he noted that nations like China and India impose life imprisonment or even capital punishment for large-scale drug counterfeiting. He recommended tougher penalties, including higher fines exceeding N500,000, asset forfeiture for convicted counterfeiters, and longer prison sentences to serve as a deterrent.

As Nigeria continues its battle against counterfeit drugs, experts agree that without stronger laws, better enforcement, and greater inter-agency collaboration, the illicit trade will persist, endangering countless lives.

Nigerians lament corruption but defend corrupt leaders – EFCC Chair

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The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has raised concerns about Nigerians’ contradictory attitude toward corruption,Daily Trust reports.

Speaking in Abuja on Friday during a visit by officials from the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), led by Chris Olukolade, the director of its board of trustees, Olukoyede pointed out that while many Nigerians openly condemn corruption, they also support corrupt leaders when they face prosecution.

He stressed that corruption and financial crimes are major barriers to Nigeria’s development, adding that addressing these issues requires a collective effort.

“One of the biggest challenges hindering Nigeria’s progress is corruption and financial crimes. Eliminating these issues will pave the way for development,” Olukoyede stated.

ALSO READ: Abdulsalami: I’m glad my govt laid foundation for 26 years of…

He emphasized that driving progress is not solely the government’s duty but also the responsibility of the citizens. According to him, Nigeria will advance if people commit to upholding integrity.

“A society that is determined to move forward depends not just on the government but on its citizens,” he said.

“This commitment is what motivates some of us to dedicate ourselves to this cause. We are fully prepared to do what is necessary within the boundaries of the law and the constitutional powers granted to us.

“If everyone resolves to do the right thing, Nigeria will move forward.”

Abdulsalami: I’m glad my govt laid foundation for 26 years of unbroken democracy

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Abdulsalami Abubakar Reflects on Nigeria’s 26 Years of Unbroken Democracy

Former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has expressed pride in his administration’s role in Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democracy,Daily Trust reports.

Abubakar, who led the country’s transition from military to civilian rule, handed over power to an elected government on May 29, 1999, marking the beginning of the Fourth Republic.

Speaking at the public presentation of the book 100 Years of Political Parties Evolution in Nigeria (1923–2023) by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Abuja, he urged Nigerians to remain committed to sustaining democracy.

ALSO READ: EXTRA: Kano Hisbah arrests couple for marrying at restaurant without parents’…

Serving as Chairman of the occasion, which was themed “100 Years of Political Parties Evolution in Nigeria – The Imperative of Nigeria’s Political Stability: Issues and Solutions,” Abubakar was represented by his Chief Security Officer (CSO), Gen. Abdulrashid Aliyu.

He highlighted that by 2025, Nigeria would mark 102 years since the formation of political parties, a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic journey.

“I commend the leadership of IPAC for its foresight in documenting this historic evolution of political parties in Nigeria,” he said.

Despite past military interventions, Abubakar emphasized that democracy has firmly taken root in Nigeria, stating that governance should always be by the people and for the people.

“This year marks 26 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria, the longest period of constitutional governance since Independence in 1960,” he noted.

Reflecting on his administration’s role, he said, “My government laid the foundation for democratic governance. It proves that when leaders are patriotic and committed to building strong democratic institutions, democracy can thrive and deliver dividends to citizens.”

He urged Nigerians to continue nurturing democracy, stressing that there is no viable alternative to civil rule.

“Our democracy has been tested and challenged, yet it has endured. This resilience reflects the people’s commitment to representative governance,” he said.

Abubakar called for a renewed focus on political party development to strengthen democracy, ensure stable elections, and promote political stability.

He also encouraged political parties to revive key democratic principles that have been sidelined, such as party supremacy, adherence to manifestoes, and ideology-driven membership.

Earlier, IPAC National Chairman, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, described the book launch as a significant milestone in documenting a century of political party activities in Nigeria.

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