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Malaria still highest disease killer in Nigeria – Nwapa

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Malaria still highest disease killer in Nigeria – Nwapa

Malaria still highest disease killer in Nigeria – Nwapa

 

By Ifeoma Ikem

 

The convener #EndMalariaInNigeria, Mr Francis Nwapa Watch says Malaria has remained a huge Public Health challenge and the highest killer disease in Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

 

Nwapa said this in a press statement to commemorate the 2023 world malaria Day which is being celebrated every April 25.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He said that with over 10 million cases and 200,000 deaths annually, amount to about 31.9% of the global Malaria indices, malaria elimination interventions in Nigeria are necessary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He called on the federal government to put in more efforts in the fight against mosquitos if we must deliver zero malaria across the nation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“#EndMalariaInNigeria commend the efforts and interventions so far made by various groups, individuals and government agencies over the years towards malaria elimination in Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

“It is in recognition of this that we have in the last one year advocated a redirection in the methods of intervention from curative to preventive’’.

 

Malaria still highest disease killer in Nigeria – Nwapa

 

 

 

 

Nwapa said that it is worrisome that the Nigeria Vaccine Development Laboratory that was active for about six decades, between 1940 and 1991, producing large quantities of vaccines against smallpox, rabies, yellow fever for not only Nigeria, but neighbouring countries like Cameroon, Central Africa and a few other countries in Africa has remain dormant.

 

 

 

 

 

“Though it was closed in 1991 by the federal government which said it wanted to reactivate and upgrade the facility, its resuscitation has remained a mirage. A once viable Laboratory has been abandoned to donor funding.

 

 

 

 

 

‘Similarly, the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) established for scientific research in Biochemistry and Nutrition, Virology Vaccinology, Immunology, Health system and policy research, Reproductive, Maternal and Childhood diseases Research, Clinical Science, Microbiology, Molecular biology Biotechnology and public Health has also remained underfunded by government and left to donor funding’’.
He enumerated some of the challenges that have hindered the fight against elimination of Malaria in Nigeria as follow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The use of IPT, prophylaxis and distribution of ITNs to pregnant women has helped in reducing malaria mortality among pregnant women in some regions of the country when compared to previous records, however certain factors have limited the effectiveness of these methods.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Most rural Nigeria women due to lack of education are still attached to some cultural and religious beliefs that dissuade them from taking these treatments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The poor housing system with no ventilation compounded with epileptic power supply is a discouraging factor for not using distributed insecticide treated nets (ITNs)

 

 

 

 

 

“Underfunded up malaria vaccine development laboratory and Nigeria institute of medical research still a major problem’’.

 

 

 

 

 

He recalled that recently, Nigeria and Ghana approved the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine produced by Oxford University which is an improved version of the RTS,S vaccine that has already been approved by the WHO.

 

 

 

 

“Also recall that 252 Days after the inauguration of Dangote led Nigeria Malaria Elimination Council, nothing significant has been heard of the council inaugurated by President Muhammadu Buhari to mobilize resources towards the fight against malaria.

 

 

 

 

 

“Just as our organization stated when it was inaugurated that it was a “wild goose chase and a business for the big boys” we have been vindicated.

 

 

 

 

“From similar failed efforts like the Role Back Malaria program in 1998, initiated and funded by international organizations like WHO, UNDP, etc, such Council will fail in achieving its aim’’.

 

 

 

 

 

He further said that preventive intervention is required to deliver zero malaria in the country.

 

 

 

 

 

“Malaria resurgence will remain a persistent threat until the disease is eradicated altogether. We need to keep up the momentum but more importantly hold the gains.

“With sustained funding, rapid progress towards ending malaria deaths can be obtained, but without it, gains could be quickly reversed putting millions of lives at risk”.

“Malaria is transmitted by an infected female anopheles mosquito, and it goes through complete metamorphosis.

He used the occasion of World Malaria Day 2023 to call on the Nigerian government to immediately mobilize Environmental health professionals in coming up with National environmental health and water management plan that will address drainages, construction of sanitary landfills and dams as a direct process of fighting mosquitos in Nigeria.

“Government should also invest in primary health care and improve remuneration for health workers, adequately fund Nigeria vaccine development laboratory, Nigeria Institute of medical research.
“We also call on government to open and adequately fund research centres in the Universities across the nation.

“We use this occasion to call on international organizations to renew commitment and efforts in ending malaria in Nigeria through partnership with organizations like the #EndMalariaInNigeria in combating malaria in Nigeria’.

He said that Nigeria can attain a malaria-free status. A country is granted malaria-free certification by WHO when the country proves that it has interrupted indigenous transmission of the disease for at least 3 consecutive years.

“If African countries like Lesotho, Mauritius, Algeria, Libya, Egypt, LA Reunion, Seychelles, Tunisia have been declared malaria free, then Nigeria can put an end to the over 200,000 malaria mortality annually.

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Alaketu-Designate Visits Ooni of Ife, Secures Royal Blessing for Kingship

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Alaketu-Designate Visits Ooni of Ife, Secures Royal Blessing for Kingship

Alaketu-Designate Visits Ooni of Ife, Secures Royal Blessing for Kingship

The Alaketu-designate of Ketu Land in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State, Prince Adekoya Babajide Adefowora, on Wednesday, paid a historic visit to the Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, at his palace in Ile-Ife.

The visit, which is a significant step in his journey to the throne, was marked by the royal father’s blessings and prayers for a peaceful and prosperous reign.

This comes after the formal presentation of Prince Adefowora, who hails from the Ateshimara Ruling House, by the traditional authorities of Ketu Land on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

His visit underscores the deep-rooted ancestral ties between Ketu Land and Ile-Ife, reaffirming the sacred traditions that bind Yoruba monarchs to their spiritual and historical source.

Prince Adefowora was accompanied to the Ooni’s palace by prominent members of his family, high-ranking chiefs, and kingmakers from Ketu Land, all of whom played key roles in his selection and endorsement as the next Alaketu.

Speaking at the palace, Prince Adefowora described his visit as a homecoming and an essential part of his ascension process.
have come home to pay homage to my father, the Ooni of Ife. My deep love for my people motivated me to accept the call to the throne of Ketu. This journey is not just about me; it is about upholding our rich heritage and leading my people towards greater progress,” he said.

Addressing controversies surrounding his ascension, he condemned attempts by some individuals to manipulate the process with fraudulent documents.

I am aware of certain fraudulent documents being submitted by some individuals to the authorities. I use this opportunity to urge them to desist from such illegal activities. The Supreme Court has already affirmed my right to the throne, and I call on the government to thoroughly investigate this matter. It is crucial for everyone to respect the rule of law and uphold due process,” he stated.

On the delay in filling the Alaketu throne after the demise of the previous ruler, Prince Adefowora explained that Yoruba tradition necessitates a period of transition.

“In Yoruba tradition, when a king joins his ancestors, a period of interregnum is observed before selecting a successor. This allows the community time to reflect, ensure stability, and make the right choice for the future. My people made their choice long ago, and today, they have formally presented me to our ancestral father, the Ooni of Ife. I am honored to have received Kabiyesi’s blessings,” he added.

In his response, the Ooni of Ife congratulated Prince Adefowora on his journey to the throne and prayed for a successful reign filled with peace, wisdom, and development for Ketu Land.

You are about to embark on a sacred duty, one that requires wisdom, patience, and commitment to the welfare of your people. I pray that your reign brings prosperity, unity, and growth to Ketu Land. May the ancestors guide you, and may your leadership be marked by justice and progress,” the Ooni prayed.

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Unity in Generosity : Prophet Genesis Unites Faiths at Ibafo Ramadan Lecture (See Video) – Alhaji Arems

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Unity in Generosity : Prophet Genesis Unites Faiths at Ibafo Ramadan Lecture (See Video) – Alhaji Arems

 

On March 12, 2025, during a spirited Ramadan lecture in Ibafo, Prophet Genesis once again demonstrated that faith and generosity know no boundaries. In a moment captured on video that has since resonated with audiences far and wide, the Prophet called an elderly woman to the stage. With warmth and conviction, he declared, “Mama, I’m the one people have blessed with this cash – open up your bag, and you can as well get extra nylon bags – take it all.” He went on to reassure her that his personal driver and security team would ensure she got home safely, eliminating any worries about carrying the money.

The heartfelt gesture was part of a lecture themed “Truthfulness brings success,” a mantra that clearly underpins Prophet Genesis’ approach to ministry. Notably, he reiterated that his annual Ramadan gatherings are unique in that he never collects money. According to the Prophet, God has made it clear that accepting money on these occasions would sever his divine connection—a conviction that has guided his practice for years.

What makes this event particularly striking is its interfaith significance. Held during Ramadan—a time when millions of Muslims around the world are fasting—the lecture underscored Prophet Genesis’ commitment to inclusivity. His actions sent a powerful message that genuine compassion and kindness transcend religious labels, uniting communities in shared celebration and mutual respect.

In a world often divided by differences, Prophet Genesis’ demonstration of unconditional generosity and his call for truthfulness serve as a reminder of the unifying power of faith and goodwill.

Watch Video Here : https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMBY9RPus/

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Fake Testimony Lands Woman in Court Over Five-Bedroom Duplex Fraud

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Fake Testimony Lands Woman in Court Over Five-Bedroom Duplex Fraud

Fake Testimony Scandal: Woman Who Falsely Claimed Ownership of Duplex Arraigned in Court

The Enugu State Police Command has arraigned Loveth Helen Alo, the woman who falsely claimed ownership of a five-bedroom duplex, before the Enugu North Magisterial District Court. This development follows her sensational but fraudulent testimony at Zion Prayer Ministry in Lagos, where she alleged that divine intervention had gifted her the property.

Spokesperson for the Enugu State Police Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed her arraignment in a statement on Tuesday, March 11. According to Ndukwe, Alo was arrested on February 1, 2025, after a petition was filed against her for falsely claiming ownership of a luxury home located in WTC Estate, Enugu.

“The suspect was apprehended by detectives from the Legal Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department following investigations into the fraudulent claims,” Ndukwe stated.

Alo had previously gone viral after storming the Zion Prayer Ministry Movement Outreach in Lagos with an emotional testimony, claiming that God had miraculously blessed her with the house. However, her story unraveled under scrutiny, and she later confessed to fabricating the entire narrative.

Authorities have charged her with five criminal offenses, including fraud, defamation, and attempted property theft. Despite her confession, Alo was granted bail, with the case adjourned to April 9, 2025, for further proceedings.

The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many condemning the misuse of religious platforms for deceit and personal gain. Meanwhile, legal experts warn that Alo could face serious legal consequences if found guilty of attempting to fraudulently claim another person’s property.

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