News
UNILORIN don laments rise in non-communicable diseases in Nigeria
- Urges more research, funding to tackle the ailments
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
A Professor of Medicine at the University of Ilorin, Ayodele Babatunde Omotoso, has lamented that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic lung diseases, have continued to be a significant health challenge in Nigeria, contributing to a substantial burden of morbidity and mortality.
Prof. Omotoso, who stated this while delivering the University’s 272nd Inaugural Lecture, noted that addressing the growing burden of NCDs in Nigeria would require a multifaceted approach, adding that NCDs aggravate poverty by increasing household costs associated with health care.
He added: “Treatment of NCDs is often lengthy and expensive, thereby stunting the economic growth of a nation. The vulnerable and the socially disadvantaged people are the most affected with higher morbidity and mortality than those with higher social status.”
The Inaugural Lecturer, who opined that the fight against NCDs is far from over, called for more steadfastness in the efforts to combat these diseases through research, education, and community engagement, urging all and sundry to continue to support initiatives aimed to promote heart health and address the burden of NCDs.
The Professor of Heart stressed the need for the government at all levels to allocate sufficient funding and resources to support programmes on prevention and control of NCDs in the country, including research, healthcare infrastructure, and community initiatives, while also urging the extension of the National Health Insurance to cover treatments for people with NCDs.
He said: “Government should fund, equip and support at least one tertiary health facility that can take care of complicated NCDs, encourage private companies to invest in health promotion activities and create workplace wellness programmes that address NCDs risk factors.
“Government should partner with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to implement community-based interventions and support groups for individuals affected by NCDs. They should also collaborate with international organisations to share knowledge, resources and best practices for NCDs prevention and control.”
He further called on government, as well as other stakeholders, to leverage technology and innovation to develop new tools and platforms for monitoring, managing, and preventing NCDs, adding that government should also faithfully implement their new policies on various aspects of NCDs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as regulations on tobacco and alcohol use and initiatives to encourage physical activity and healthy eating.
The Inaugural Lecturer, who called for improved access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas, so as to ensure early detection and treatment of NCDs, stressed the need for nationwide campaigns to raise awareness about the risk factors and prevention strategies for NCDs.
Urging the University of Ilorin to institutionalise compulsory medical check-up for all staff for early detection and treatment of persons with NCDs, Prof. Omotoso also stressed the need to develop programmes that would engage the local community in health education and promotion, focusing on the prevention and management of NCDs.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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