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DIPHTHERIA OUTBREAK: LAGOS GOVT LAUNCHES EMERGENCY VACCINATION AT KING’S COLLEGE, URGES PARENTS TO REMAIN CALM

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DIPHTHERIA OUTBREAK: LAGOS GOVT LAUNCHES EMERGENCY VACCINATION AT KING’S COLLEGE, URGES PARENTS TO REMAIN CALM

…Government Officials Inspect Facilities, Enforce Public Health Measures

…Students, Staff Receive Emergency Vaccination Amid Growing Concerns

 

Panic gripped parents and stakeholders as the Lagos State Government rolled out an emergency vaccination campaign at King’s College Annexe, Victoria Island, following a confirmed diphtheria outbreak that has already claimed a life. The swift response is aimed at halting the spread of the highly infectious bacterial disease, which poses a severe public health risk if left unchecked.

Leading the urgent intervention, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, along with key government officials, stormed the school premises for an on-the-ground assessment and vaccination rollout. The delegation included the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, and the Permanent Secretary, Lagos Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke. Their mission: to contain the outbreak and restore confidence among worried parents.

Authorities Move Swiftly to Prevent Further Casualties

Addressing the press, Prof. Abayomi acknowledged the gravity of the situation but assured the public that rigorous containment measures were already in place.

“We were very concerned about the ongoing outbreak of diphtheria at King’s College Annexe, which has persisted for about ten days. Tragically, we lost a student, but since identifying the outbreak, we have screened affected individuals, placed them on antibiotics and anti-serum treatment, and I am pleased to report that those under medical care are responding well,” he stated.

To ensure the safety of students and staff, the government has intensified its response strategy, conducting a thorough inspection of school facilities, including dormitories, classrooms, kitchen areas, dining halls, and sanitation units. Officials emphasized that improving hygiene and ventilation is critical in combating the spread of the airborne disease.

Emergency Vaccination Begins as Officials Clamp Down on Risk Factors

The most critical phase of the containment strategy is the immediate administration of diphtheria booster vaccines to students and staff. With medical teams deployed by the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, the government is racing against time to build herd immunity within the school community.

“Routine immunization covers diphtheria, but immunity wanes over time. This booster vaccination will strengthen the students’ defenses and prevent further spread,” Prof. Abayomi explained.

Acknowledging concerns over the potential spread beyond the affected location, he confirmed that vaccination efforts would extend to the school’s main campus in Igbosere, as students and staff frequently move between both sites.

Parents Urged to Keep Students in School Amid Containment Measures

Despite mounting fears among parents, health authorities strongly discouraged the withdrawal of students from the school, warning that premature exits could worsen the crisis.

“We understand the anxieties of parents, but pulling children out of school could backfire. A student may seem healthy but still be incubating the bacteria. If they return home, they could unknowingly spread the infection to family members and the wider community,” Prof. Abayomi cautioned.

He reassured parents that King’s College is currently operating under strict medical supervision, almost as an isolation center, with health professionals on-site to monitor and respond swiftly to any emerging cases.

What Happens Next?

As the emergency vaccination exercise continues, the Lagos State Government remains on high alert, ramping up surveillance efforts to ensure that no additional cases slip through the cracks. Schools, parents, and health officials are urged to cooperate fully to mitigate the crisis and prevent a full-blown epidemic.

The next few days will be critical in determining the effectiveness of the containment strategy. Meanwhile, public health experts stress the importance of hygiene, timely vaccination, and community awareness in averting further tragedy.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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