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Canada joins `vaccine nationalism’ race

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Canada has joined other rich countries like the United States and Britain that are pre-ordering millions of potential coronavirus vaccines for their citizens.

Through this move  known as ‘vaccine nationalism’, these wealthy nations are striking mass purchase deals with drug makers with promising vaccine candidates.

Canada’s Minister of Procurement, Ms Anita Anand, announced on Wednesday that the government had placed orders for millions of doses with Pfizer and Moderna.

The two companies are among others with COVID-19 vaccine candidates in the third and final stage of clinical trials that could be ready by the end of the year.

Anand, who was not specific on the number of doses and their cost, said the deals would give Canadians access to the vaccines, if successful, in 2021.

She said the details could not be made public for now due to ongoing negotiations between the government and other suppliers for millions of more doses.

The minister added that the government had also ordered millions of syringes and other equipment for a mass vaccination campaign ahead of the availability of a vaccine.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the U.S., United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Italy, among others, have made similar deals.

On July 22, the U.S. government said it had reached a 1.95-billion-dollar (N742.9 billion) agreement with Pfizer and BioNTech SE for 100 million doses, and could acquire up to 500 million more.

Again, the government on Wednesday announced a one-billion-dollar (N381 billion) deal with another producer, Johnson & Johnson, for another 100 million doses of its potential coronavirus vaccine.

Also in July, the U.K. announced that it had secured 90 million doses of two different COVID-19 vaccines from BioNTech/Pfizer and Valneva, with an option of 40 million more doses if successful.

This came after France, Germany, the Netherlands and Italy announced a joint 400-million-dose deal with AstraZeneca, which is working on the Oxford University’s vaccine development.

NAN reports that this “my country first’’ approach by wealthy countries is a source of concern to global health agencies, including GAVI, an international vaccine alliance.

GAVI’s Chief Executive, Seth Berkley, said the scramble was a threat to efforts by the alliance and other partners to bulk-buy and equitably distribute COVID-19 vaccines around the world.

According to experts, the rush may prompt these countries into bidding against one another, thus leading to a spike in the price of vaccines and related materials.

They noted that low and middle-income countries would be left behind, thus undermining the quest for global cooperation to defeat the virus. (NAN)

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Goodluck Jonathan’s Family Celebrates Son’s Graduation in UK

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Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former First Lady Patience Ibifaka Jonathan recently celebrated a significant family milestone as they attended the graduation ceremony of their son, Ariara Goodluck Jonathan, at Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom.

The proud parents joined family members and well-wishers to witness Ariara receive his degree, marking the successful completion of his academic programme. The occasion was filled with joy as the Jonathan family commemorated the achievement, highlighting the importance they place on education and personal development.

The graduation ceremony attracted warm congratulatory messages from friends, associates, and admirers, who wished the graduate continued success in his future endeavours.

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2027 BENUE GUBER: MORE TROUBLE FOR GOV ALIA

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The Following names joined the political family of Sen. Dr. George Akume today after leaving the sinking Alia ship .

Under the leadership of Barr. Emmanuel Jime .

The are ;
Chief Nelson Alapa
Douglas pepe SAN senatorial Aspirant zone A,
Engr Peter Ashiekaa
QS Clement Beetseh
Former commissioners
Joy Luga
Ann itodo
Barr martins Shaagee
Miss Dorcas
Prof Usar Joseh
Prof Cephas Tushima
Chief Patrick Idoko
Hon Patience Akor
Hon Fred Idoko
Hon Lawrence Ekpo Onoja Jnr
Hon Andrew Abah
Hon Agbo Innocent Ikwumonu
Hon Simon Omachoko
Hon David Egboja
Dr John Garba
Among together,

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ENGR. BELLO BABAYO BELLO FELICITATES VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA ON RENOMINATION

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Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, Executive Director (Networks) of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his renomination as the Vice Presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

In his message, Engr. Bello described the renomination as a beautiful affirmation of the Vice President’s enduring commitment to Nigeria’s unity, stability, and prosperity. He noted that Senator Shettima, himself a former Senator of the Federal Republic, has consistently embodied resilience, foresight, and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that continue to inspire confidence across the nation.

“This renomination is a shining testament to your unwavering dedication to the Nigerian people,” Engr. Bello stated. “It reflects the trust of the party and the citizens in your ability to guide our country toward greater progress, peace, and prosperity. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, and this endorsement is richly deserved.”

Engr. Bello further emphasized that Senator Shettima’s political journey has been marked by courage and service. From his tenure as Governor of Borno State to his current role as Vice President, he has consistently championed initiatives that address national challenges, foster economic growth, and promote inclusive development.

As a leader in the power sector, Engr. Bello highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in driving infrastructure and energy reforms. He expressed confidence that Senator Shettima’s continued role in government will further strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to deliver reliable power, expand opportunities, and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the Vice President wisdom, strength, and good health to continue serving the nation with distinction. “May Allah bless your efforts, guide your decisions, and grant you success as you carry forward the responsibility of leadership,” he added.

The message concluded with a reaffirmation of goodwill and support: “Congratulations once again, Your Excellency. We look forward to your continued contributions to the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria.”

Signed:Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSEExecutive Director (Networks)Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC)

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