Monday, June 23, 2025
Home Blog Page 52

Comedian AY Sparks Reactions As He Celebrates Son’s 17th Birthday

K Fosu
-
0
Comedian AY Sparks Reactions As He Celebrates Son’s 17th Birthday

Nigerian comedian cum filmmaker, Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has sparked reactions online over a birthday post to his 17-year-old ‘son’.

Naija News reports that the movie star took to his Instagram page to share a photo of his ‘son’, Denzel, accompanied by a birthday message.

AY showered the celebrant with prayers and love, adding he would see him soon.

He wrote, “My son is 17. May each day be a step closer to your dreams, filled with the warmth of love and the thrill of new adventures. Happy birthday, Denzel. Daddy loves you. See you soon.”

However, some Nigerians took to his comment section to express doubt over AY’s social media post, while others claimed they have always known two of his daughters with his wife, Mabel Makun.

@realhonour199 wrote: “AY, it’s unwîse how this boy doesn’t look like u yet u’re not concerned.More unwîse having a child of 17yrs at ur age.Most unwîse letting him plait hair forgeting this a sign of irresponsibil!ty frm him being m!nor & u being father.This kind of hairstyle can attract bàd gangs when he start living alone in Uni.He may become stubborn,íll-mannered if care isn’t taken.Caution him to balb his hair.Avoid being a bad dad.Bád children turns bád society.Be wise. Don’t be unwîse”

@lynastipenda wrote: “He has been with the wife over 17yrs and this isn’t her kid, so how??”

@houseofcampelrry wrote: “He said his son, him tell una say na him born am?? Na only who u born u fit call ur son??”

@lizzyberry22 wrote: “So his Nephew cant be his son ,like seriously cant you all see that he is using you all to catch cruise thats his sister son in d UK,Nawaah for una”

@slimkiki wrote: “Oga you need to explain better oo please your son from which woman? Because as far as I know it’s only Michael and Ayomide that are your kids so this son is from where? Meanwhile happy birthday son of God”

@officialbigv wrote: “E shock una Abi? Na so we go de shock una. Nor be everything dem de upload online”

@albumjayjay wrote: “All these entitled commenters, so someone can not celebrate and call a person that he can birth his son again? Bet una dey Daddy and Mommy una pastors and landlords….. abi parenting na only biological and spiritual? Join him and celebrate the beautiful baby boy or waka pass. If you wan know the truth, then block him on the 28th of April @mcmonicacfrn show in lagos , he will explain and if he doesn’t, you report him to Bright.”

@adekaz87 wrote: “Many comments here are so dumb comments, please if you can wish the young lad HBD is advisable to scroll past and stop advising a man that can feed your generation. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DENZEL GOD BLESS YOUR NEW AGE”

&copy 2024 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc.

Small by Small: Becoming a Doctor in 1990s’ Nigeria

K Fosu
-
0
Small by Small: Becoming a Doctor in 1990s’ Nigeria

Vivianne Ihekweazu (Lead Writer)

Since Ike Anya’s book, “Small by Small” called “a small miracle of a book” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, was published in the summer of 2023, it has sparked discussions among the larger Nigeran diaspora. The book depicts the unique experience of many doctors studying medicine in Nigeria, thoughout the nineties. The recent publication of the Nigerian edition in 2024, by Masobe Books has made the book accessible to Nigerian readers, re-igniting discussions and experience sharing.
 
While “Small by Small” is a memoir, it is not a single story, but a collection of beautiful short stories capturing the journey to become a doctor in Nigeria. Making it through both the turbulent times of life on campus, juxtaposed against the turbulent times in the country. The experience of a medical education, prior to the widespread use of technology, has many common experiences shared around the world. These include the enormous amounts of material consumed, the experience of dissecting cadavers to learn about the different parts of the human anatomy and the unique student-doctor relationship in the clinical years. However, many stories in this book are unique to our setting in Nigeria.
 
Ike brilliantly narrates various events from his time in medical school in Nigeria. From the incredible adrenaline rush of the important “2nd MB” exams, where the trade and exchange of bones was a vital part of studying anatomy, to the camaraderie that develops among the class with each passing exam, to dealing with parental and societal expectations. The pressures and the pains, the joys and sadness and sometimes just the craziness of Nigeria in the nineties is described in beautiful written text that captures the reader’s imagination immersing them in the experience. Reading “Small by Small”, you are transported into the sights portrayed in vivid detail. One of Ike’s great skills is his detailed narration, often with sarcastic humour and vivid characters that paint a tapestry of stories that weave through the highs and lows of life as a medical student. Ike’s journey through medical school becomes more than just a story of academic pursuit, it is a vivid exploration of life’s ups and downs, of friendships forged through the shared struggles.
 
Universities have historically been at the heart of social and political activism, and the 1990s were likely the last time this was true in Nigeria. People often assumed that medical students were too preoccupied with academics to participate in activism. “Small by Small”, describes in detail how this was not the case, as medical students were at the forefront of many of Nigeria’s struggles during that time period.
 
Reading “Small by Small”, you cannot miss the references to Nsukka, the university town in southeastern Nigeria, described so beautifully in Chimamanda Adichie’s first best seller, Purple Hibiscus. Without revealing too much, it depicts its dusty red roads and hill clusters, highlighting the town’s role in the early stages of every doctor’s education at the University of Nigeria, where they spend their first year.
 
The book discusses the tremendous resilience that medical students show throughout their training to become medical doctors. This resilience is not uncommon among Nigeria’s current generation of medical professionals, who often have to work in difficult conditions. This is why the emigration of medical doctors is a growing concern in Nigeria. The incessant strikes, which often caused medical school to be delayed, the security issues on campus and when travelling to campus, and the financial resources required to study are challenges that every medical student has to deal with.
 
The question I would like to ask young Nigerians who read this book is, “Does it inspire or inhibit your aspirations to study medicine in Nigeria”? As the book is now available in bookshops in Nigeria, this is a question that can only be answered by those who have read the book. Aside from textbooks, there are not many books accessible to aspiring medical students that share the experience of becoming a medical doctor, therefore we recommend “Small by Small”, to anyone aspiring to make this journey. Yes, things may have changed since the 2000s, but many feelings, hopes and aspirations will remain the same.
 
Since the book’s release, there have been several discussions at readings and other events around the world. It has sparked conversations on the opportunities and challenges of a medical education, and well as the responsibilities that come with it. There are several Nigerian doctors and other medical professionals working in health facilities all over the world, but few have documented their experiences. So, this book fills that gap, providing not only a fascinating story but also an important record of one of the most different periods in Nigerian history, as well as the perspective of a doctor who lived through it.
 
More than anything else, the book, “Small by Small” inspires optimism, which is urgently needed in Nigeria. Finally, as Ike’s book elaborated on, the journey to becoming a doctor in Nigeria, is a gradual process, and, as the Igbo proverb goes “Nwayo nwayo ka-eji aracha ofe di oku”.

Reason why Southwest will continue to control political power in Nigeria

K Fosu
-
0
Reason why Southwest will continue to control political power in Nigeria

Reno Omokri, a sociopolitical analyst, has claimed that the North and South will continue to control political power in Nigeria.

Omokri said both regions will continue to yield political power over Nigeria due to their unity and humility.

Posting on X, the former presidential aide said other regions will assume control of political power in Nigeria when they learn humility and unity from the North and Western parts of the country.

According to Omokri: “Sadly, as long as Nigeria remains one united country, Northern Nigeria and the Southwest of Nigeria will continue controlling power in this political sphere, like a tennis ball, because of their unity and humility. One will do eight years, God willing, and pass the ball with their racket of unity to the other, who will do their own eight years and pass the ball back.

READ ALSO: Pencilcomedian out with new YouTube series, School trip

“Only the death of an incumbent President can temporarily break that circadian rhythm. And if that even occurs, the pendulum swing will be readjusted back to its original factory settings during elections, and equilibrium will be retained.

“Except other regions learn unity and humility from these two blocs, this political tennis game of back and forth will endure.

“Unity without humility will result in feelings of superiority, which will destroy your political ability. Humility without unity will lead to internal geopolitical wrangling, which causes political instability.

“To get power and retain it in a multi-ethnic polity like ours, you must counterbalance unity with humility. And the North, especially the core North, and the Southwest get it. Oya, insult!”

Meet Nigeria’s richest movie directors

K Fosu
-
0
Meet Nigeria’s richest movie directors

Nollywood is nothing without its directors, who use their talents to bring African stories to life. In this feature, Daily Trust Saturday explores Nigeria’s wealthiest movie directors, from seasoned veterans to rising stars shaping Nollywood’s future.

Funke Akindele – N2bn

Olufunke Ayotunde Akindele is a multifaceted figure in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, excelling as a filmmaker, actress, director, producer, and even dipping into politics. She holds the distinction of being the second director in Nigeria to achieve over a billion naira in box office revenue, and she currently stands as the highest-grossing Nigerian director with a staggering total gross exceeding N2.9 billion. Her directorial debut came with the 2019 political drama ‘Your Excellency’, which achieved significant success, grossing over N160m. 

Akindele further solidified her position in Nollywood as the producer and director of three record-breaking films, including ‘A Tribe Called Judah’, which amassed N1,392,113,579, ‘Battle on Buka Street’, bringing in N668,423,056, and ‘Omo Ghetto: The Saga’, with earnings totalling N636,129,120. Her financial success is evident by a net worth estimated at $1m. Additionally, Akindele boasts properties including a residence in the UK, a mansion in Lagos, and a fleet of cars valued at a total of N30m for a Jeep and N50m for a Rolls Royce Phantom, among others.

Niyi Akinmolayan – N1bn

With a diverse portfolio spanning directing, producing and screenwriting, Akinmolayan has emerged as one of the most influential voices in contemporary Nigerian cinema. Niyi Akinmolayan’s impressive filmography includes five entries among the top 50 highest-grossing Nigerian films: ‘The Wedding Party 2’ (2017), ‘Chief Daddy’ (2018), ‘Prophetess’ (2021), ‘My Village People’ (2021), and ‘The Set Up’ (2019).

Akinmolayan’s directorial prowess extends to various genres, including the Nigerian dance movie ‘Make a Move’ (2014), garnering acclaim and a nomination for Best Movie (Drama) at the 2015 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards. His subsequent works, ‘Falling’ and ‘Out of Luck’, earned him a Best Director nomination at the 2016 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. In 2017, Akinmolayan’s film ‘The Arbitration’ screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, sparked the production of the short film ‘Room 315’ through a writing competition on his blog. His endeavours also include the production of the animated series ‘Adventures of Lola and Chuchu’ and executive production of ‘Malika: Warrior Queen’ in 2019.

Throughout his career, Akinmolayan’s dedication and talent have accumulated significant success, with his work amassing an estimated total revenue of N1,153,745,981.

Kayode Kasum – N760m

Kayode Kasum is a Nigerian filmmaker renowned for his contributions to both cinema and music videos. His career trajectory began as a motion graphics designer at Wale Adenuga Productions (WAP), followed by a stint as a producer in an advertising firm. In 2017, he made his directorial debut with ‘Dognapped’, Nigeria’s first live-action animation film.

However, it was his 2018 release, ‘Oga Bolaji’, that thrust him into the spotlight in Nollywood. Since then, he has been involved in notable productions like ‘Sugar Rush’ and Toyin Abraham’s ‘Fate of Alakada’.

With over 10,860 minutes of directing experience for MNET’s telenovela series ‘Unbroken’ and ‘Riona’, Kasum’s directorial credits span several acclaimed films, including ‘Sugar Rush’ (2019), ‘This Lady Called Life’ (2020), and the psychological horror ‘Ile Owo’ (House of Money) (2022).

Notably, Kasum’s ground-breaking work includes directing Nigeria’s first live-action animated movie and contributing to one of the country’s highest-grossing films to date. Recognised for his achievements, he received nominations for The Future Awards Africa 2019 and was listed among the top Nollywood directors of 2020. In 2023, his directorial efforts in ‘Something like Gold’, ‘Afamefuna’, and ‘Far From Home’, further established his reputation.

With earnings totalling N763.34m, Kasum stands as one of the wealthiest directors in Nollywood.

Kemi Adetiba – N680m

Kemi Adetiba is a Nigerian filmmaker, television director, and music video director, renowned for her diverse portfolio showcased on platforms such as Channel O, MTV Base, Sound City TV, BET, and Netflix. Transitioning from radio to television, Kemi excelled as both a producer and host on Mnet, spearheading shows like Studio 53 and Temptation Nigeria alongside Ikponmwosa Osakioduwa. Her on-screen talent extended to Soundcity TV, and she hosted Maltina Dance All for three consecutive seasons.

In September 2016, Kemi’s directorial debut, ‘The Wedding Party’, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), setting the stage for a remarkable career trajectory. Following this success, she directed the critically acclaimed ‘King of Boys’ in 2018, which grossed over N240m at the box office.

With her significant contributions to the Nigerian film industry, Kemi Adetiba has garnered both critical acclaim and financial success, earning her an estimated net worth of N697.06m, solidifying her status as one of the wealthiest movie directors in the industry.

Robert O Peters – N610 million

Renowned for his versatility, Robert O. Peters is a Nigerian filmmaker celebrated for his contributions as a producer, director, cinematographer, actor, and occasional voice-over artist, with an estimated value of N609.20m.

He rose to prominence with his directorial work on the 2014 Nollywood hit ‘30 Days in Atlanta’, followed by acclaimed projects such as ‘Shades of Attractions’ (2015), ‘Boxing Day’ (2016), and ‘A Trip to Jamaica’ (2016), featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Ayo Makun, Ramsey Nouah, Richard Mofe Damijo and Vivica Fox.

Peters began his career as an actor, debuting in Nigeria’s 1998 film ‘Mama Sunday’ and later appearing in the daytime series ‘Everyday People’ (2002). Following this, he pursued further education in Visual Storytelling at the New York University in 2004.

Transitioning into cinematography and film editing in 2006, Peters collaborated with various Hollywood and Nollywood filmmakers over the years, including Vivica Fox and Funke Akindele. His directorial prowess reached new heights with ‘30 Days in Atlanta’, which set records in the Nigerian box office, earning a place in the 2017 Guinness Book of Records for its remarkable domestic gross alongside esteemed films from Bollywood and Hollywood.

Moses Inwang – N500m

Moses Inwang is a notable Nigerian filmmaker recognised for his roles as a director, producer, editor, and screenwriter, with an estimated net worth of N499.99m. His cinematic contributions often address societal issues seldom explored in Nigerian cinema.

In 2004, Inwang founded Sneeze Films, debuting with ‘Save My Soul’, setting the stage for subsequent impactful works. Notable among these are ‘Lost Maiden’ (2008), which sheds light on female circumcision, and ‘Save Our Souls, addressing cancer-related issues. His 2011 film ‘Damage’ received critical acclaim for its portrayal of domestic violence, amassing various awards and nominations.

Inwang’s directorial skills matured with ‘Torn’ (2012), a psychological thriller that received widespread recognition. Subsequent hits, including ‘Merry Men 2’ (2019), solidified his reputation as a box office force. His 2017 release, ‘Alter Ego’, starring Omotola Jalade, earned international accolades, clinching awards at prestigious festivals. ‘Crazy People’ (2018) further strengthened his position as a top-tier filmmaker.

Biodun Stephen – N440m

Biodun Stephen, renowned for her expertise in crafting romantic dramas and comedies, stands as one of Nollywood’s wealthiest directors with a net gross of N436.17m.

In 2014, Stephen made her mark with ‘The Visit’, praised for its stellar cast and original storyline, earning two nominations at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.

Transitioning from acting, Stephen pursued filmmaking to hone her skills and facilitate global communication, as she shared in a Tribune interview. Her 2017 film ‘Picture Perfect’ garnered five nominations and two wins at the Best of Nollywood Awards, showcasing her talent in storytelling and direction. She clinched the Best Director award at the 2016 Maya Awards.

Beyond filmmaking, Stephen hosts the weekend show ‘Whispers’ and heads Shutterspeed Projects – a Lagos-based production company.

Tope Adebayo – N398m

Tope Adebayo is a well-known Nigerian actor, producer, lawyer and director, ranking among the top-earning Nollywood directors in 2022. Son of the renowned Nollywood actor Adebayo Salami, famously known as Oga Bello, Tope gained fame for his performances in films like ‘Kinni Igbeyawo’ (2020), ‘King of Thieves’ (2022), and ‘Késárí the King’ (2023).

His notable contribution to ‘King of Thieves’ resulted in earnings of N320m, contributing to his reported net gross of N397.97m.

 

Nigeria first to use ‘revolutionary’ meningitis jab: WHO

K Fosu
-
0
Nigeria first to use ‘revolutionary’ meningitis jab: WHO

nigeria
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Africa’s most populous nation Nigeria has launched a “revolutionary” vaccine against meningitis, in what the World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday said was a world first.

“Meningitis is an old and deadly foe, but this new vaccine holds the potential to change the trajectory of the disease, preventing future outbreaks and saving many lives,” said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

“Nigeria’s rollout brings us one step closer to our goal to eliminate meningitis by 2030,” he said.

The Men5CV vaccine shields against the five major strains of the meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, Y and X) in a single shot.

The WHO said it offers broader protection than the current vaccine used in much of Africa, which is only effective against the A strain.

Last year the number of meningitis cases jumped 50 percent in Africa.

Nigeria, with a population of 220 million, is one of the continent’s 26 meningitis hyper-endemic countries, an area known as the African Meningitis Belt.

WHO noted that 153 people died during an outbreak of meningitis in Nigeria between October 1 and March 11.

Gavi, the global Vaccine Alliance, funded the new campaign from March 25-28 to initially vaccinate more than one million people aged from one to 29 years.

“Northern Nigeria, particularly the states of Jigawa, Bauchi and Yobe were badly hit by the deadly outbreak of meningitis,” said Professor Muhammad Ali Pate of Nigeria’s Health Ministry.

“This vaccine provides health workers with a new tool to both stop this outbreak but also put the country on a path to elimination,” he said in the WHO statement.

Meningitis infection leads to inflammation of the membranes or meninges that protect the brain and spinal cord.

It has multiple causes including viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic pathogens.

Symptoms often include headache, fever and stiff neck. Bacterial meningitis is the most serious and may result in septicaemia or blood poisoning that can seriously disable or kill within 24 hours.

© 2024 AFP

Citation:
Nigeria first to use ‘revolutionary’ meningitis jab: WHO (2024, April 13)
retrieved 13 April 2024
from

This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no
part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Traditional authorities’ role important in Ghana’s body politics – Bagbin

K Fosu
-
0
Traditional authorities’ role important in Ghana’s body politics – Bagbin

Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagin has emphasised the role of traditional authorities in the country’s development and has called on them to actively get more involved in the development of their traditional areas. 

He urged chiefs, queens and other elders in the various traditional areas to engage the government and leadership of government openly and frankly on issues affecting the development of their areas. 

“Talk to us, the chiefs, and about us, to shift the political discourse from deception to development,” the Speaker said.

He added, “The traditional authorities continue to be the most powerful institution in this country, and I anticipate that you will play an important role in body politics and as custodians of Ghana’s rich resources.” 

Speaker Bagbin, who last year was honoured as the Tengmaale Naa, the Development Chief of the Takopo Traditional Area, made the call at the Wilaa Festival of the Takopo Traditional Area, held on the theme: “Nuoriyeni, Maarong Aneng Maaluu (Unity, Peace and Development).” 

The Speaker observed: “The country is retrogressing faster than the people think it is progressing…Our lands are being destroyed by foreigners introduced by citizens, we cannot feed our children in school, and yet, every morning, we are on all Radio and TV stations, defending things and explaining why only corn is fed to our children for a whole week.”  

He wondered why some people in authority did not care about what was happening to the less privileged; and this, he said, had made most of the youth to be full of excuses in their dealings. 

“No sincerity, no honesty, no respect for elders these days. And all these could be attributed to the decay of our culture, tradition and values.” 

The Speaker referred to a statement of the Greek Philosopher Socrates, that, “an unexamined life is not worth living, “and explained that there was therefore the need for leaders to take a deep introspection of themselves and ask themselves what they wanted for the country.  

“Almost everything is gone amok in this country,” he said. 

Speaker Bagbin said as a country, traditional leaders should be reminded that it was their culture which identified them and anchored them to development.  

In an apparent reference to the brouhaha over the expected presidential assent to the anti-gay, lesbian queer practices bill, the Speaker said: ‘As Ghanaians, we should be mindful of what we accept in our culture in the name of globalisation and human rights. 

Speaker Bagbin, a Catholic by faith also quoted the Bible, citing 1 Corinthians 6: 12 that, “all things are lawful but not all are expedient.” 

Touching on the theme, the Speaker said it was very apt and inspiring and to him, festivals were used as effective catalysts for unity, peace and development.  

“Festivals are effective tools of sustainable development and peacebuilding. The celebration of festivals gives meaning to life and communal living. I dare say, any community without a festival is a dead society,” he said. 

He therefore used the occasion to call on all sons and daughters of the Takpo Traditional Area to get involved in issues of concern and be interested in the development of the community. 

He also used the occasion to applaud Takpo Naa, Queen mothers, Queens, Elders and People of  Takopo for the establishment and continuous celebration of the Wilaa Festival for more than twenty-six years now.  

He pledged to do everything possible within his means, to support the development and well-being of the people of the area.  

Takpo is richly endowed in gold and Azumah Resources Limited has been given the licence to exploit it. 

However, not much has been done.  

Mr Bagbin, therefore, called on the government through the Minerals Commission to grant them community mining licenses to enable the teeming youth in the area to engage in legal and responsible mining with the community. 

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Portable Reveals His Profession Before Music Stardom

K Fosu
-
0
Portable Reveals His Profession Before Music Stardom

Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, better known as Portable, has revealed that he was a fashion designer before venturing into music, which later brought him stardom.

The music star revealed this during a chat with the Brooke Bailey Danfo Series, which was hosted by Belgian DJ Bailey.

The 30-year-old singer told his interviewer, who flew into Nigeria for the chat, that he still combines fashion design with singing.

As part of the interview, Portable took Bailey to the fashion designing studio where he said he learnt the skill before venturing into music. They also had a tour of Sango Ota, Ogun state, the singer’s hometown.

“I trained as a fashion designer. I am still a fashion designer, I am still doing it. That is what I learnt, that was my profession before I ventured into music,” Portable said.

“Now I combine the both but I am taking the fashion side of things slow and steady. I love fashion designing, even entertainment is connected to fashion in some ways. So when you are doing music, you have to do fashion.”

Portable hit stardom in December 2021 with the release of ‘Zazoo Zeh’, his hit single featuring Olamide and Poco Lee.

&copy 2024 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc.

Nigeria, Kenya struggle with exodus of doctors and nurses – The Mail & Guardian

K Fosu
-
0
Nigeria, Kenya struggle with exodus of doctors and nurses – The Mail & Guardian

Gettyimages 2144464716 594x594

Kenyan doctors chant as they march towards the health ministry headquarters to demand better pay and working conditions in the capital, Nairobi on April 9, 2024. (Photo by SIMON MAINA/AFP via Getty Images)

Faced with sky-high inflation, low salaries and an overstretched healthcare system, doctors and nurses are leaving Nigeria in their thousands every year for better opportunities abroad.

Between 15  000 and 16  000 doctors have departed in the past five years, according to Nigeria’s health minister, Muhammad Ali Pate. The country has just 55  000 doctors for a population of 220  million, he said.

The exodus of healthcare workers has heaped extra strain on those who stay, and made choices tough for students thinking about their future.

On his way to the Lagos State University College of Medicine, second-year medical student Hassan Adewunmi said he was reluctantly prepared to find work elsewhere after graduating.

“The elites prefer to seek treatment abroad rather than in Nigeria, and that says a lot about the state of hospitals in the country,” Adewunmi said. 

“And we ask why doctors and nurses don’t want to stay.”

Doctors in Nigeria’s public and in some private hospitals make $2  000 to $4  000 each year, so they earn an average of about $200 a month, said Moses Onwubuya, president of the Nigerian Medical Students’ Association.

Most healthcare workers are based in the major cities. There are about 7  600 doctors in Lagos, the country’s most populous city, and 4  700 in the capital Abuja, according to the health minister. In the rest of Nigeria, there are about two doctors for every 10  000 people.

“Our facilities in the country are below standard and short-staffed, resulting in massive burnout,” said Dele Abdullahi, president of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors and a general practitioner at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital in southwest Nigeria.

In 2020, the World Health Organisation placed Nigeria on its red list of states facing a serious shortage of doctors and nurses.

Healthcare workers are “heading mainly for the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States, but also increasingly to Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia. They are also going to Scandinavia,” Onwubuya said.

Almost 5  000 doctors moved to Britain between 2015 and 2021, according to a Nigerian non-profit, the Development Research and Projects Centre.

In a bid to limit the brain drain, MP Ganiyu Johnson proposed a bill in 2023 that would require medical graduates to work for five years in Nigeria before obtaining a full licence to practise. Parliament has not yet passed the bill, which was heavily criticised by doctors’ associations.

The law for nurses changed on 1  March, requiring them to practise for at least two years in Nigeria before they can leave the country.

“We need to increase salaries, buy equipment, renovate hospitals and set up scholarships for students. That’s what the government should be doing, not this type of law,” said Stella Naomi Oluwadare, a private dental nurse who said that even with 10 years of experience, she earns about $200 a month.

She is preparing to join her husband, an orthodontist, who emigrated to Canada in 2022.

Chomas Abiodun, a nurse at a private hospital in Lagos, said she feared that future generations of students would suffer.

“If all qualified professionals leave the country, who’s going to teach in schools and supervise young people during their hospital internships?” she said. 

“Something has to change.”

In March, the health minister said he would look into increasing health professionals’ salaries, but there is no sign yet that Nigeria has managed to stop the mass departures.

Meanwhile, in Kenya, hundreds of hospital doctors joined a demonstration in the streets of the capital Nairobi on Tuesday as a nationwide strike by medics neared its fourth week. 

About a dozen riot police in pickup trucks were out to monitor the protest, which was not authorised by the authorities.

Members of the 7  000-strong Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) have been on strike since 13  March to demand better pay and working conditions, disrupting healthcare at the country’s 57 public hospitals.

Wearing white lab coats, the doctors chanted “solidarity forever” as they marched to the health ministry, where they blocked the entrance gates.

“We are more than willing to go back to the hospitals but the effort being put by the government is not enough to end the human suffering,” the KMPDU’s deputy secretary general, Dennis Miskellah.

The union last week rejected an offer by the government that included paying arrears under a 2017 collective bargaining agreement, and hiring trainee doctors on permanent contracts.

In March, a labour court had ordered the union to suspend the strike and last week it set a 14-day deadline for the completion of negotiations to end the stalemate.

Kenya’s President William Ruto, who has embarked on a programme of cost-cutting measures since taking office in 2022, on Sunday ruled out any further concessions.

“We cannot continue to spend the money we do not have,” he said.

“I am telling our friends the doctors that … we value the service they give to our nation but we must live within our means.”

Poor salaries and working conditions have led to an exodus of Kenyan medics to other African countries and further afield.

In 2017, Kenyan doctors staged a crippling 100-day nationwide strike that left public hospitals shut and patients unable to get basic medical care.

Dozens of patients died from a lack of treatment during the walkout, which ended after a collective bargaining agreement was reached.

But doctors have accused the government of reneging on some parts of the deal, leading to the current strike.

— AFP

Shettima, Akpabio, Nwifuru, Otti, Ohanaeze, others mourn – The Sun Nigeria

K Fosu
-
0
Shettima, Akpabio, Nwifuru, Otti, Ohanaeze, others mourn – The Sun Nigeria

From Jude Chinedu, Enugu and Okey Sampson, Umuahia

More tributes have continued to pour forth for the late Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, who passed on last Thursday, at the age of 72.

Dr. Onu, who was the first civilian governor of Abia State in the short-lived Third Republic, aspired to be the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 election.  The former governor became the presidential candidate of the All Peoples Party (APP) in 1999, but gave up his position to Chief Olu Falae, after the defunct APP merged with another party, Alliance for Democracy.

Vice President Kashim Shettima said Onu’s impact on Nigeria’s political landscape is immeasurable. He described the late minister, “as a true statesman and accomplished Nigerian leader.

“As the first civilian governor of Abia, he laid a strong foundation for good governance and democratic principles. His legacies in Abia State will forever be remembered.

“As the Minister of Science and Technology, his dedication to nation-building was evident in his focus on fostering scientific advancements and technological innovation in our great nation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Shettima said beyond his political achievements, late Onu was a man of integrity, wisdom, and unwavering principles.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio in his condolence message said, “Onu was a perfect gentleman. He will be missed for his wisdom, mature composure, zest for excellence and proven integrity.

“Onu was known for coming first in every endeavour he engaged in, and played politics without bitterness all his life.

“On behalf of my family, the Senate and the National Assembly, I wish him eternal rest with the Lord.”

Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru described the death of the former minister as a rude shock, saying, he would “be remembered for his candour, knack for excellence and relentless commitment to the development of Ebonyi State and Nigeria in general.

“Dr. Onu, who also served the nation as Minister of Science and Technology was a thoroughbred politician and an advocate of justice and fairness.  It is indeed a sad development losing a patriotic leader who stopped at nothing at rendering best services to his people when he served in different capacities.”

Abia State governor, Dr. Alex Otti, described Dr. Onu’s death as a huge loss to Abia and Ebonyi states, the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a whole. According to Otti, Dr. Onu was one of such living statesmen with the character, carriage and a statesman disposition required to reposition the nation for the better.

He promised that Abia would honour and immortalise Dr. Onu by ensuring that the democratic journey he started in Abia as a civilian governor many years ago was advanced to a level where the welfare and well-being of Abians would be made an institutionalised priority at all times.

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo described the late former minister, as one of the most principled Nigerians in history.

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, in a condolence message signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Alex Ogbonnia, on Friday, said that the demise of the first civilian governor of Abia State was shocking.

The statement said that the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, was heart-broken on hearing the sad news.

Iwuanyanwu lamented the death of high profile Igbo dignitaries in a close sequence: Prof George Obiozor, Prof Joe Irukwu, Elder U. K. Kalu, Prof Ben Nwabueze, Dr. Sylvanus Ebigwei, Prof Chike Edozien, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife and now Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, noting that most of them were members of the Presidential Advisory Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

He recalled how Onu displayed an awesome and remarkable magnanimity when in 1999, he surrendered his presidential ticket in the All Peoples Party (APP) to the presidential candidate of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), Chief Olu Falae.

He said that Ogbonnaya Onu was a rare Nigerian who resisted all the entreaties and tantalising perquisites of the ruling party, but chose to remain in the opposition throughout the 16 years of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

“While we pray to the Almighty to grant the soul of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu an eternal rest in his bosom, we urge the immediate family and indeed the government and the good people of Ebonyi State to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude,” the statement reads.

The Chairman Northern States Governors’ Forum, expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the first civilian governor of Abia.

Yahaya, who is the governor of Gombe, in a condolence message on behalf of the 19 northern governors, said the late Onu made remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape.

He said the late former minister left behind a legacy of humility, hard work, and exceptional service to the nation.

The NSGF chairman recalled that the late Onu’s tenure as governor of Abia and his subsequent role as minister of science and technology were characterised by dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, in a condolences message, said that Onu was a consummate patriot, who served his people and the entire nation and commiserated with his immediate family, friends, political associates and the people of Ebonyi over his demise. Former governor of Anambra State and two-time Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, described Onu’s exit as an unquantifiable loss to Nigeria, entire Igboland and the South East geo-political zone in particular.

He noted that the account of political development in the country, especially from the truncated Third Republic till date, couldn’t be complete without mentioning Dr. Onu’s positive contributions.

According to him, when Nigerians needed a change from the 16- year rule of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Onu made himself the sacrificial lamb to offer Nigerians an alternative in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“As a former colleague in the FEC, I remember his intelligent contributions to memos during our weekly meetings. The country lost a teacher, an erudite scholar, intellectual, politician and public servant par excellence,” Ngige said.

A member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Benjamin Apugo recalled the role he played in making Dr. Onu, the first governor of Abia State and said he was happy that he late politician never disappointed him as a governor.

Apugo said that Onu governed Abia with the fear of God and did not loot the state unlike some others after him.

The APC chieftain described Onu as not only a gentleman, but also a man of integrity who conducted himself with the highest level of comportment in whatever public space he found himself.

Diamond Platnumz opens up why Nigeria’s stage isn’t on his radar

K Fosu
-
0
Diamond Platnumz opens up why Nigeria’s stage isn’t on his radar

In the pulsating heart of Africa’s music industry, Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz shines brightly, his stardom a beacon of success and ambition.

Yet, despite his magnetic allure and global acclaim, there’s one stage conspicuously absent from his tour itinerary: Nigeria.

At a recent press conference, Diamond outlined the reasons behind this glaring omission. 

“Nigerians have a habit of underestimating you even though they know your power,” he asserts, his tone firm yet reflective. 

Adds, “So when a show comes up, I say, ‘I want this much, if you don’t want to, I won’t go.’ That’s it, short and clear.”

For Diamond, strategic planning is the cornerstone of his ascent. With a deliberate focus on conquering Africa first, he’s meticulously crafted a musical empire that reverberates from Addis Ababa to Conakry. 

“My team and I collaborated to ensure that when I perform in any African country, it feels like I’m in Tanzania because I can fill stadiums,” he shares, his pride palpable.

But beyond the continent’s borders lies a realm of untapped potential: the global stage. Diamond elucidated the careful calculus required for this leap, juxtaposing it against the trajectory of his predecessors. 

He emphasises, “Transitioning from Africa to the world requires planning. We focused on Africa’s success, while they built a global presence.”

However, Diamond’s gaze isn’t fixed solely on the horizon, it’s also cast on the currents shaping Africa’s musical landscape. 

With a discerning eye, he noted the current dominance of South African tunes on the global airwaves, highlighting the challenges faced by their West African counterparts.

Yet, amidst these reflections, Diamond’s vision remains resolute that Tanzanian music can go global, given the right support and networks. 

Citing the success of his track “Shu” as a testament, he underscored the importance of perseverance in the face of scepticism.

Yet, the path to international acclaim isn’t without its obstacles. Diamond lamented the dearth of Tanzanian presence at global shows, contrasting it with the robust turnout of West African expatriates.

“You have to rely on people from other countries to attend the show,” he ruefully observes, pointing to the familial advantage enjoyed by West African artistes abroad.

Despite the challenges, Diamond remains undeterred. As he prepares to grace the stage at a major concert in Dar es Salaam, organized by Serengeti Lite, his resolve burns brighter than ever.

For Diamond Platnumz, the journey is far from over—it’s a symphony in motion, each note resonating with the promise of a global crescendo.

1...515253...63Page 52 of 63

ABOUT US

Gabsfeed Media brings you the latest general news, trending topics, and relevant updates that matter—delivered with clarity and purpose.

Contact us: gabsfeedmedia@gmail.com

FOLLOW US

© 2025 - Gabsfeed Media