Niger State Government has announced its resolution to revamp its primary and tertiary healthcare systems to halt the mass exodus of medical professionals and boost healthcare services to its citizens.
In a statement signed by Abdulbaqy Usman Ebbo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Digital Media and Strategy, the government expressed its decision to prioritize the healthcare sector to ensure improved health delivery in the state.
Ebbo explained that as part of measures to stop this trend, the state government has embarked on the renovation of the General Hospital, Minna, which had been in poor condition for many years.
This renovation aims to provide a conducive environment to encourage medical professionals to stay and contribute to the state’s healthcare development.
“Currently, the doctors’ quarters at the General Hospital Minna have been completely transformed, making them habitable and conducive for doctors working in the hospital, among other measures taken to stop the medical brain drain in the state,” the governor’s aide explained.
He noted that the state-owned IBB Specialist Hospital is presently undergoing remodeling, with new departments being created and state-of-the-art facilities installed for effective and efficient service delivery for the people of the state.
The statement further indicated that the state government has also commenced the construction of 100 Level-2 primary healthcare centers, with about 20 set to be completed in the next 10 weeks, as part of its commitment to revitalizing the healthcare sector.
“This is due to the importance the present administration places on the healthcare needs of the people, by prioritizing the health sector to deliver positive results,” he added.
Niger Govt vows to reposition healthcare infrastructure to curb exodus of medical experts
Niger Govt vows to reposition healthcare infrastructure to curb exodus of medical experts
Kenya police fire tear gas at protesters
Kenyan police fired volleys of tear gas Thursday in the heart of the capital Nairobi as small groups of protesters gathered on what was billed as a fresh day of action against embattled President William Ruto.
Riot police patrolled the streets of the central business district, roadblocks were set up on major arteries and many shops were shut down, but barely dozens of demonstrators turned out, AFP journalists said.
The East African nation, one of the most stable in the region, has been rocked by weeks of sometimes deadly protests against Ruto’s two-year-old administration, mostly led by young Gen-Z Kenyans.
While Ruto was overseeing the swearing-in of a revamped cabinet, just a few kilometres (miles) away police lobbed tear gas in the central business district and detained several people.
But otherwise, the streets appeared largely quiet, with a few people going about their normal business.
Television footage from the Indian Ocean city of Mombasa also showed traffic flowing normally and no signs of trouble, and the western lakeside city of Kisumu was also reported to be calm.
Kenya’s acting police chief, Gilbert Masengeli, warned on Wednesday that “criminals” intended to infiltrate the demonstrations and advised people to stay away from protected zones such as the main international airport and Ruto’s official residence and take precautions in crowded areas.
What started as peaceful youth-led rallies against controversial proposed tax hikes have ballooned into wider action against Ruto and what many see as profligate government spending and corruption.
At least 60 people have been killed since the protests began in mid-June, with police accused of using excessive force, sometimes firing live bullets, while dozens of people have gone missing, according to rights groups.
– ‘New chapter’ –
While the rallies have become smaller in recent weeks, posters shared online called for fresh demonstrations on Thursday, dubbed “Nane Nane” or Eight Eight in Swahili, to signify the date, August 8.
In the past, organisers have accused “goons” of hijacking their plans for peaceful action and of stoking violence.
In a bid to tackle the worst crisis of his presidency, Ruto has taken a series of measures to address public anger including scrapping the tax hikes, rejigging his cabinet, and making deep budget cuts.
He said Thursday’s installation of a new “broad-based” cabinet – which includes four opposition stalwarts but also a number of previously sacked ministers, represented the start of a “new chapter” for Kenya’s governance and development.
Ruto took office in September 2022 after winning a closely fought and divisive election against veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga, pledging to work for Kenya’s poor and downtrodden.
But he has found himself caught between the demands of international lenders to shore up government finances to enable it to service its massive $78bn debt, and ordinary Kenyans who are struggling with a cost-of-living crisis.
While economic growth has remained relatively strong, estimated by the central bank at 5.4 per cent this year, a third of the country’s 52 million people live in poverty.
AFP
Makinde visits Ladoja in Ibadan
The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday evening, visited the former governor of the state and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Rashidi Ladoja at his Ondo Street private residence in Ibadan.
The According reliably gathered that the visit was not unconnected with the presentation of the ceremonial beaded crown to Ladoja.
The former governor publicly announced the acceptance of the ceremonial crown at a live program on Fresh FM 105.9 FM in Ibadan, the state capital, on Sunday.
He said his decision to accept the crown does not make him Oba as there is only one recognised monarch who is the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Sources privy to Wednesday’s meeting confided in our correspondent that, “Governor Makinde arrived at Ondo Street around 6:00 pm yesterday (Wednesday).
“They held a closed-door meeting before they both came outside again and discussed for a few minutes before the governor took his leave.
“They discussed at length, especially about the progress of Ibadanland in particular and the state in general. They also discussed the ceremonial beaded crown.”
Another source said, “We were excited to receive him (Makinde) yesterday.
“The governor and Otun Olubadan are on good terms. Forget about what people are saying. The visit was like a son went to greet his father, simple.”
It was further gathered that plans were already concluded for the presentation of the crown.
The presentation of the beaded crown, which ought to have taken place this week, was said to have been postponed till next week, after the meeting of Olubadan-In-Council.
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Press centre, police launch probe into attacks on journalists during hunger protests in Lagos
The International Press Centre (IPC), on Wednesday, condemned the violent assault on News Central reporters and cameramen by thugs at Freedom Park, Ojota, during recent hunger protests.
The incident has raised concerns about press freedom and journalist safety in Nigeria.
According to IPC’s Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, a group of over 10 thugs attacked the News Central crew, who were attempting to report on the protests. Despite initial police directives to leave the park, the journalists were later confronted by the hoodlums, forcing them to flee.
In response to the incident, News Central TV’s Managing Director, Kayode Akintemi, met with Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, to express concerns and submit an official complaint. The Commissioner has since ordered an immediate investigation into the incident, pledging to identify and prosecute the perpetrators.
READ ALSO:#EndBadGovernance Protests: 6 Spaniards, 76 others, sponsors arrested, Police says
Akinjiyan said, “The thugs who were more than 10 attacked the crew of News Central Television, who went to the venue to monitor the situation. When the News Central crew arrived, police directed them to leave the park. They relocated to a distant location to continue their live broadcast. During the broadcast, the journalists were confronted by the hoodlums wielding sticks and shovels. The thugs assaulted several reporters and forced them to flee.
“Report stated that ‘the Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, has ordered an immediate investigation into this incident. He mandated the investigating team to fish out the miscreants and ensure their prosecution accordingly. He gave this directive yesterday when the crew, led by News Central MD, Kayode Akintemi, submitted an official complaint letter at the Command Headquarters, Ikeja’.
“IPC is, therefore, again calling on the security agencies, in particular the Commissioner of Police of Lagos State to fulfill his pledge to go after the thugs who assaulted the journalists and interrogate the policemen who looked the other way while journalists were being attacked.”
The IPC has called on the police to fulfill this pledge, emphasizing the need for accountability and protection of journalists. The incident highlights the challenges faced by media professionals in Nigeria, where reporting on sensitive topics can lead to intimidation, violence and even death.
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NHRC demands thorough investigation into killing of 16-year-old by soldier in Kaduna
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for thorough investigation into the killing of a 16-year-old boy, Isma’il Muhammad in Zaria during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest.
The commission expressed deep concerns over the killing, during the 24-hour curfew imposed to curtail the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest in the state.
The Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Mr Tony Ojukwu, made the call while reacting to the incident that led to the killing.
He said it is particularly troubling given the commission’s previous advisory on the excesses of law enforcement agencies during the protests.
He reiterated that the right to life is sacrosanct and cannot be violated under any circumstances.
“The use of lethal force against unarmed civilians, especially minors, is unacceptable and a clear violation of international human rights standards.
“We demand a thorough and transparent investigation into this incident and call for the soldier involved to be held accountable” he said.
Ojukwu said, this is not an isolated incident, and the NHRC will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to ensure that human rights are protected and promoted in Nigeria.
He therefore, urged the authorities to take concrete measures to address the systemic issues leading to these violations.
“The authorities should ensure that law enforcement agencies operate within the ambit of the law and respect human rights.”
While commiserating with the family of Isma’il Muhammad, Ojukwu said the Commission will leave no stone unturned in investigating this killing and several other violations that took place during the protest.
Recall that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has ordered for the arrest of the soldier who accidentally killed Mohammed.
The Director of Army Public Relations, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu in a statement explained the cause of death of the teenager.
He added that the soldier involved has since been arrested and undergoing interrogation.
NHRC demands thorough investigation into killing of 16-year-old by soldier in Kaduna
Keep supporting our athletes, sports minister urges Nigerians
The Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, has called on Nigerians to support Nigerian athletes participating in the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympics.
According to a post on his X account on Thursday, he said, “Our athletes are giving their best and making us proud. D’Tigress made the nation proud, and there’s no shame in losing to the world’s number 1 ranked team. They struck a high note and made a statement even at the quarterfinal match with 74 – 88.
“The first African team ever to get to the quarter-finals, they have moved four ranks up on the power ranking table. We are proud of them. Their games have been spectacular.
“Ese Ukpeseraye was the only African cyclist amongst the 30 cyclists at the Olympics. Uchenna Ogazi, after 36 years, made the finals of the men’s 400m race, and Favour Ofili had a good run and has shown great dexterity.
Let’s keep rooting for our athletes.”
Similarly, in a statement issued by the Director of Information, Ministry of Sports Development, Kehinde Ajayi, and obtained from the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation’s X account on Wednesday, the minister urged Nigerian athletes to persist and exhibit their talents and tenacity in the true spirit of Nigerian sportsmanship.
Emphasising the significance of resilience and determination in the face of the challenging events, Enoh expressed his confidence in the athletes’ potential to secure medals, given the unwavering support they have gained.
“We take pride in each athlete representing Nigeria. You carry the aspirations and ambitions of the nation, and we stand firmly beside you as you strive for greatness. Let the world witness the fortitude and resolve of Nigerians,” he affirmed.
The Nigerian athletes encountered setbacks in the track and field events on Friday, as the nation’s hope of crowning its first woman to qualify for the final in the high jump dimmed early at the Stade de France.
High jumper Temitope Adeshina, failed to clear the 1.97m qualification mark set for the event, falling short of the top 12 competitors progressing to the finals.
Adeshina, who had previously set a Nigerian record of 1.97m in the event less than two months ago, struggled to surpass 1.92m after successfully clearing 1.88m on her second attempt, ultimately finishing 19th in the final standings. She now joins Doreen Amata as the two Nigerians who have participated in the event without achieving the height required to secure a spot in the finals. Amata’s attempts in the event in 2008, 2012, and 2016 did not match her feat at the World Championships in 2011, where she reached the final in Daegu, South Korea.
Prior to Adeshina’s setback, sprinter Tima Godbless stumbled at the initial hurdle in the 100m semifinal.
As the 2024 Paris Olympic Games enters its 12th day, Team Nigeria is set to compete in a series of exciting events across athletics, wrestling, cycling, and basketball. Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress will face the USA in a thrilling quarterfinal matchup, while Samuel Ogazi will attempt to win a medal in the men’s 400m final event.
Also, queen of the tracks, Oluwatibiloba Amusan, will compete in heat 1 of the women’s 100m hurdles, as she attempts to win her first Olympics medal.
Protest: Kaduna residents recount experiences after 24-hour lockdown
Residents of Kaduna State on Thursday morning recounted their experiences after the state government reviewed the 24-hour curfew, which now runs from 6 pm to 8 am.
Several residents, who spoke to DAILYPOST correspondent in Kaduna, said the 24-hour lockdown served as a serious lesson, stressing the importance of imparting this knowledge to their children to prevent future occurrences.
DAILYPOST recalls that following the hunger protest, which was hijacked by criminals who destroyed government property and looted individual shops, the state government imposed a 24-hour curfew on Zaria and Kaduna.
The curfew lasted for two days. During this period, hunger worsened as businesses were paralysed and security operatives enforced the curfew.
On Tuesday night, the state government reviewed the curfew, allowing residents to search for means of livelihood.
Speaking to TVN at the roadside of Kaduna Central Market on Thursday morning, Mrs Ruth Babale said she had to fast during the lockdown because she could not go out to provide for her five children.
She said, “Since the day of the lockdown, I had no food because I could no longer go out. I sell food ingredients in the early morning and use the money to buy food for the family.”
Mr Joseph, a vulcanizer, said he had no food during the lockdown.
“As a vulcanizer, I am paid daily for the work I do. Since the 24-hour curfew, the hunger surpassed even the Hunger Protest.” He prayed that such protests never happen again.
Mr Joseph Alibaba expressed gratitude to God and Governor Uba Sani for reviewing the curfew for the benefit of residents.
He said his wife went into labor early Wednesday morning, but he was afraid to take her to the hospital due to the lockdown. With the curfew review, he was able to take her to the hospital on Thursday morning.
Other residents shared similar experiences and vowed that such a situation would never repeat itself in the state.
Protest: Kaduna residents recount experiences after 24-hour lockdown
Israel revokes diplomatic status of Norwegian envoys
Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz said Thursday the diplomatic status of Norwegian envoys to the Palestinian Authority would be revoked over Oslo’s “anti-Israel behaviour” since the Gaza war began in October.
“I ordered the termination of any representation on behalf of the Norwegian Embassy in Israel vis-a-vis the Palestinian Authority”, Katz said in a statement, adding that “there is a price for anti-Israel behaviour”.
AFP
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BREAKING: Gov Mutfwang reviews curfew on Jos-Bukuru metropolis
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State on Thursday further relaxed the curfew imposed on the Jos-Bukuru metropolis.
He also stated that residents are allowed to go about their lawful activities between 12 noon and 6 pm until further notice.
DAILYPOST recalls that the state government had, on Sunday imposed a 24-hour curfew on the aforementioned areas, citing the need to enhance security and maintain public order.
The curfew was reviewed on Wednesday, allowing residents to move between 2 pm and 6 pm.
The further relaxation of the curfew was announced in a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere, and made available to journalists in Jos, the state capital.
It reads: “In light of the improved security situation in the Jos-Bukuru metropolis, the Plateau State Government has further relaxed the curfew, effective today, Thursday, August 8, 2024.
“Residents are now permitted to move freely for their lawful activities from 12 noon to 6 pm daily until further notice.
“The State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, in consultation with security agencies, has authorized this relaxation.
“He assured the public that the government will continue to make decisions in the best interest of the people.
“The Governor, however, commended the residents for their peaceful conduct during the curfew and appealed for continued cooperation with security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the state.”
BREAKING: Gov Mutfwang reviews curfew on Jos-Bukuru metropolis
NLC demands policy reversal, condemns govt’s response to #EndBadGovernance protests
The National Executive Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress has issued a strong condemnation of the Federal Government’s handling of the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests, calling for an immediate reversal of the policies that have plunged the nation into economic hardship.
The NEC convened an emergency meeting on Wednesday to assess the impact of these policies on Nigerian workers and the broader population.
In a communiqué signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, the NEC expressed deep concern over the government’s response to the mass protests, which began on August 1, 2024.
The protests, triggered by widespread discontent over the government’s economic policies, have been met with violence, resulting in the deaths and injuries of several civilians at the hands of the police.
“The NEC is deeply troubled by the government’s high-handed and mismanaged response to the peaceful #EndBadGovernance protests. Instead of addressing the legitimate and fundamental grievances of the people, the government has resorted to violence,” the communiqué stated.
The NLC criticised the government’s decision to implement policies based on advice from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which it described as “anti-poor.” According to the statement, the labour union had previously warned that these policies would lead to severe hardship, but its concerns were dismissed by the government.
The NEC also condemned the government’s trivialisation of treasonable felony charges, which it argued were being used indiscriminately against peaceful protesters.
“The continuous trivialisation of treasonable felony by Government operatives abuses and makes a mockery of it as a high crime against the state,” the communiqué said.
In response to these issues, the NLC issued several resolutions, including a demand for the reversal of the government’s economic policies and the implementation of immediate relief measures to alleviate the suffering of workers and the general populace.
The NLC also called for a National Day of Mourning to honour those who lost their lives during the protests and demanded an independent investigation into the killings and maiming of protesters.
Furthermore, the NEC urged the federal government to engage in meaningful dialogue with representatives of the protesters, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to resolve the ongoing crisis. The NLC warned that failure to do so could compel the union to direct its members to stay home for their safety.
“The NEC-in-session urges the federal government to engage in meaningful dialogue with representatives of the protesters, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to resolve all the issues at stake to end the national carnage. This is to avoid NLC being compelled to direct its members to stay home for the safety of their lives,” the communiqué said.
The NEC also expressed strong disapproval of the government’s interference in the affairs of the NLC, particularly the actions of the Minister of Labour and the Registrar of Trade Unions.
The communiqué called for the immediate withdrawal of a “politically motivated” letter sent to the NLC by the Registrar of Trade Unions.