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World TB Day Event: Federal Ministry of Health, LASG, USAID/ SHOPS Plus Unveil New 16 Modular GeneXpert Machine

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World TB Day Event: Federal Ministry of Health, LASG, USAID/ SHOPS Plus Unveil New 16 Modular GeneXpert Machine at EL-LAB Medical Diagnostics Lagos
The Federal Ministry of Health, Lagos State Government and USAID/SHOPS Plus unveiled a 16-Module GeneXpert Machine, the first of its kind in the country, on Monday, March 22nd, 2021 at the Diagnostics Complex of EL-Lab in Festac Town, Lagos.
According to WHO, TB is a major public health concern in Nigeria with the country ranked 6th among the 30 high TB burden countries globally and about 15 percent of the global gap in TB case notification.
The machine, which is for molecular diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB), was purchased by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through its funded Sustaining Health Outcomes through the Private Sector Plus project (SHOPS Plus) for the government of Nigeria to facilitate case detection in the private sector.  The machine was launched at EL-Lab Ltd, one of the leading indigenous medical diagnostic and research centres in Nigeria, with a view to closing the gap in TB case detection, notification, and treatment. EL-Lab is one of the 118 engaged stand-alone laboratories trained by SHOPS/Plus and has been very active in PPM Mix activities in Lagos State.
Mrs. Ayodele Iroko, the Senior Private Sector Advisor USAID/SHOPS Plus who anchored the event started by commending all private sector partners that have remained committed to the proactive screening, testing, and treating of TB in their various communities. She also encouraged all engaged health professional associations to work tenaciously at expanding the pool of private sector TB providers by scaling up engagement to include more of their members while facilitating efforts to integrate tested approaches into facilities service provision for ownership and sustainability.
In his opening remarks, the National Coordinator, National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP), Dr Chukwuma Anyaike identified two main national goals as regards TB; to find the missing cases, and to ensure all cases found are adequately treated.
He applauded the efforts of the private sector partners, citing the increase in TB case finding and recent times but also emphasised that there is still a lot of room for improvement. Anyaike also stressed the need for more up-to-date statistical data on TB cases in Nigeria.
Anyaike described the introduction of the 16-Module GeneXpert Machine as a “milestone” and encouraged optimal use of the machine to achieve maximal results. He pointed out, however, that the mission goes beyond case finding, to ensuring treatment for all cases.  He encouraged stakeholders to re-strategize and think outside the box in order to “fish out all TB cases.”
Omosalewa Oyelaran, Deputy Director at USAID Nigeria office for HIV/AIDS & TB also commended the efforts of all stakeholders and encouraged them to take up the challenge of finding and treating all cases of TB in Nigeria. She expressed her excitement about the launching of the 16-Module GeneXpert Machine stating that it will increase the testing capacity, allowing patients to know their status and be placed on treatment as quickly as possible. Oyelaran expressed her organization’s commitment to supporting private sector engagement while encouraging them to take ownership and add value to success stories. She also encouraged all stakeholders to continue to raise awareness around the upcoming World Tuberculosis Day.
In a brief goodwill message, Mr. Mayowa Joel, the Executive Director of STOP TB Partnership expressed gratitude to USAID and SHOPS Plus for their efforts in facilitating and supporting private sector engagement.  He emphasized the need to strengthen and sustain the public -private collaboration.
Individual remarks were also given by Dr Makinde Akinlemibola, Chairman, Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, Lagos State; Mr. Clement Olaifa, Chairman, Lagos State Association of General & Private Nursing Practitioners of Nigeria, Mr. Anorue C.J Chairman, Guild of Private Medical Laboratory Directors, Lagos State. Pharm. Lawrence Ekhator – Chairman, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Lagos State. Each pledged their commitment to vision of 100 percent case finding and treatment, promising to improve their contributions with sustainable strategies, particularly emphasizing their willingness to work with the government in achieving the common goal.
The Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, through its registrar and CEO, Dr Tosan Erhabor also congratulated EL-Lab Diagnostics on the official unveiling of the First ever 16 modules GeneXpert machine in Nigeria. He also pledged his commitment, on behalf of the organization, to scale up TB case finding and treatment.
Dr Bolanle Olusola –Faleye, TB Technical Director of SHOPS Plus, while sharing the successes of the involvement of the private sector commended the synergy between the private sector and government, as well as the high level of dedication demonstrated by partners and donors.
Expanding further on these successes, Mr. Elochukwu Adibo, CEO of EL-Lab Medical Diagnostic Ltd explained that the involvement of the private sector is gradually ensuring that Nigeria’s unenviable ranking as  6th globally among the high burden countries and first in Africa with high burden for TB becomes a thing of the past.
He noted that the adoption of GeneXpert MTB/RIF test as the entry point diagnostic tool for TB case detection was done in 2016, and Federal Government’s wisdom in engaging the private health sector has tremendously helped to increase case detection and treatment.
Adibo stated that out of over 4000 networks of standalone Laboratories under Guild of Private Medical laboratory Directors, (GMLD), the Hon. Minister for Health donated a 4-module GeneXpert machine on September 4, 2018, to EL-lab Medical Diagnostics, Lagos.
EL-Lab, applying private sector efficiency, optimized testing with the machine which brought about significant improvement in TB case detection and testing with a tremendous support and partnership from the USAID /SHOPS Plus program network and their technical/logistic excellence.
He pointed out the need for infrastructure and logistics upgrade, especially with regards to power supply to meet the demand for uninterrupted service delivery.  He also called on the government and all concerned parties to remove the bottlenecks in the current partnerships to enable unhindered private sector contribution, to meet Country goals and National Strategic Plan for TB which will ultimately improve Nigeria’s global ranking.
Speaking before formally unveiling the new 16 modular machine, Dr Agbolagorite Olurotimi, Director of Disease Control, Lagos State who represented the Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Prof Emmanuel Akinola Abayomi commended the private sector for their contributions at all levels, to the case finding and treatment of TB cases. He particularly commended EL-Lab’s commitment in testing samples both from government and private facilities. He urged stakeholders to continue to work at the desired goal, as Nigeria still has a long way to go with regards to TB case finding and treatment. He promised to investigate the identified bottlenecks that hinder private sector involvement and encouraged stakeholders to keep identifying and reporting such hindrances.
After his speech, the Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Prof. Emmanuel Akinola Abayomi, who was represented by Dr Agbolagorite Olurotimi with other guests led by Dr Elochukwu Adibo proceeded on a walk-through tour of the laboratory that culminated into the formal cutting of ribbons and unveiling the new machine to the joy and excitement of both the physical and virtual audience present at the event.
Testing of samples from public and private health institutions was demonstrated using the
new 16 module GeneXpert machine.
Mr. Ifeanyi Okekearu, the Chief of Party of SHOPS/Plus commended the involvement of all partners and appreciated their time at the event.
PHOTO CAPTION:
(L-R) Lawrence Ekhator – Chairman, Association of Community Pharmacists Lagos State, Prince Elochukwu Adibo –Laboratory Director, EL-LAB Diagnostics and National President, Guild of Private Medical Laboratory Directors, Dr Agbolagorite Olurotimi – Director of Disease Control Lagos State representing the Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Mrs Ayodele Iroko –  Senior Private Sector Advisor, USAID/SHOPS Plus, Dr Makinde Akinlemibola – Chairman, Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, Lagos State

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Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos

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Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos By Ifeoma Ikem

Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos

By Ifeoma Ikem

 

A property dispute within the Omotayo-Ojo family has taken a dramatic turn following a controversial demolition exercise at a residential building in Ikosi-Ketu, Lagos State, which reportedly left tenants displaced and led to the detention of some police officers allegedly involved in the operation.

 

 

The property, located at 23B Loveall Street, Ikosi-Ketu, has been the subject of a prolonged ownership tussle since the death of its owner, Chief Oludola Omotayo Ojo, the Babaalaje of Imesi-Ile, Osun State, in 2019.
Residents said tension erupted when a group of individuals, accompanied by security operatives, stormed the premises and commenced demolition activities.

 

 

According to eyewitnesses, portions of the building were pulled down while tenants rushed to salvage their belongings from affected apartments.

 

 

The residents alleged that windows, doors and roofing sheets were damaged during the exercise, exposing parts of the building to the elements and causing significant losses to occupants.

 

 

At the centre of the dispute is Mrs Mojisola Omotayo Ojo Alolagbe, who claimed that the property was allocated to her by her late father during his lifetime as a source of financial support.

 

She alleged that some family members had persistently challenged her ownership claim despite ongoing legal proceedings relating to the administration of the deceased’s estate.
Alolagbe further claimed that the latest incident was part of a series of attempts to wrest control of the property, citing previous cases of alleged vandalism and partial demolition in November 2025, January 2026 and February 2026.

 

 

The situation escalated further when reports emerged that police officers allegedly involved in the demolition were later apprehended and conveyed in a Black Maria vehicle over questions surrounding the legality of their participation in the operation.

 

Sources familiar with the matter said those behind the demolition had initially claimed to be acting on approval from the Lagos State Ministry of Lands. However, the authenticity and extent of such approval could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.

 

 

The development has generated concern among residents and community members, who questioned the involvement of security personnel in what they described as a civil matter.

 

 

Some tenants, who said they had recently renewed their tenancy agreements, lamented the destruction of their property and appealed to the authorities for protection and possible compensation.

 

They also called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the demolition, insisting that the rights of all parties involved should be protected.
Stakeholders have urged the Lagos State Government, security agencies and the judiciary to intervene and ensure that the dispute is resolved through lawful means to prevent further escalation.

 

 

The controversy has continued to draw public attention, raising concerns over property rights, estate administration and the role of law enforcement agencies in civil disputes.

 

Police Officers Detained as Family Property Dispute Sparks Demolition Controversy in Lagos

By Ifeoma Ikem

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UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin

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UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin.

May 30, 2026 – As the month of June gathers momentum, the *United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA*, a sovereign nation has unveiled a series of vital guidelines and preparatory packages to ensure citizens and stakeholders run the *ATC Exchangeability* process effectively.

In an official update, the *President of Atlantic Crown Limited, Empress of Attica Empire UKA*, confirmed that the *Final Test Run of ATC Exchangeability* is scheduled for the month of June 2026. The exercise marks a key phase ahead of the *Official Exchangeability Window, set to run from July 2026 to February 2027*.

### Key Highlights from the Presidential Briefing
1. *Final Test Run – June 2026*
The test run is designed to validate systems, procedures, and user readiness before full activation. Citizens, partners, and designated participants are urged to follow all official advisories released by UKA authorities during this period.

2. *Official Exchangeability Period*
Following the successful completion of the June test run, the Official Exchangeability will commence in july 2026 and we are Expecting Full Exchange ability between July Ending, 2026 to February 2026.

UKA stated that detailed schedules, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions will be communicated progressively through verified UKA channels.

3. *Benefiting Packages for June*
In line with UKA’s commitment to citizen empowerment, the month of June will feature “benefiting packages” aimed at education, preparation, and seamless onboarding. These packages are intended to equip the people of UKA with the knowledge and tools needed for effective participation.

4. *Commitment to Transparency*
Addressing the nation, the Empress of Attica Empire UKA emphasized:
_“Final Test Run of ATC Comes up in The Month of June, As We Prepare For The Official Exchangeability, Between July 2026 To Feb 2027. All Information Will Be Communicated.”_
UKA reaffirmed that only information released through official UKA platforms should be regarded as authoritative.

The United Kingdom of Atlantis is encouraging all citizens, representatives, and interested parties to remain alert to official communications, attend designated orientation sessions, and avoid unofficial sources. UKA’s dedication to order, clarity, and the collective benefit of its people as the nation moves into this significant phase.

For updates, advisories, and participation guidelines, citizens are advised to monitor official UKA communication channels.

United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA, is a sovereign nation, committed to national development, citizen welfare, and structured economic participation through initiatives such as ATC Exchangeability.

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Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements

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Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements

 

 

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms and improved security efforts as the President marks three years in office.

 

 

 

 

In a goodwill message on Thursday to commemorate Tinubu’s third anniversary as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Buratai said the administration had taken courageous decisions that would leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.

 

 

 

According to him, President Tinubu broke a long-standing cycle that had hindered national growth by removing fuel subsidy and implementing foreign exchange reforms aimed at stabilising the naira and strengthening the economy.

 

 

 

 

He noted that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing the global acceptance of Nigerian debit cards, the gradual revival of local refineries, access to student loans, and ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country.

 

 

 

“The FCT Administration has also recorded remarkable progress, completing major road projects that remained unfinished for over 16 years,” Buratai stated.

 

 

 

The former army chief also praised the administration’s security efforts, saying renewed military offensives against insurgents, terrorists and bandits had led to notable successes across various parts of the country.

 

 

 

He specifically lauded recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.

 

 

 

 

“We have seen notorious ISWAP commanders being neutralised. I congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their efforts,” he said.

 

 

 

 

Buratai, however, acknowledged that challenges remained, stressing the need for more aggressive military operations and intelligence-driven strategies in the coming year.

 

 

 

 

While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, he said celebrating the President’s achievements did not amount to ignoring the difficulties facing the nation.

 

 

 

 

“Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances, and that is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he added.

The retired military officer reaffirmed his support for the Tinubu administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the government would deliver a brighter future for the country.

 

He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead Nigeria.

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