Be careful what you eat, avoid Helicobacter pylori disease - NIMR warns Nigerians.

Members of the public have been urged to be more conscious of their hygiene and feeding habits to avoid contracting a disease called Helicobacter pylori. 

Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria or germs that infects the stomach which can cause sores and inflammation in the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. The infection can lead to stomach cancer in some people.

The Director of Research, Nigeria Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Yaba, Lagos, Prof. Stella Smith, made the call in a chat with newsmen.

Professor Smith who noted that Helicobacter Pylori which according to research is a cause of two deaths in Nigeria, is transferable although, it can be treated with antibiotics.

" Food vendors and handlers should submit themselves for hygiene tests and food packaging to maintain a good standard and reduce the impact of the infection to put a stop to other food-related diseases ". Smith advised

She identified symptoms like dyspepsia (consistent heartburn), pain in the stomach, bloatedness in the stomach, belching, and early satisfaction when eating amongst others as symptoms to look out for and treatment sought.

 " Aside advocacy, education, community engagement, focus groups, there are other means of awareness on the proper medication to use which will go a long way in reducing the spread is gradually becoming an outbreak". Smith

Advising on cholera which according to Professor Smith has become a public health concern, " people should not take it with levity as the rain steps in, noting that, safe, clean and portable water should be provided to combat contact and spread ".

In his contribution, a fellow researcher of the Institute, Dr. Toyosi Raheem, said surveillance, education, provision of interventions and the right application of them are key to combating the menace.

Another fellow researcher of the Institute, Dr. Yisau Jacob, said, removal of point of contamination, is a major key player in the fight against H. Pylori.

I appeal to the host communities where research is being carried out not to be hostile to researchers as they are there in the interest of your community ". Yisau

Adding his voice to overcoming the challenge, the Director General, NIMR, Professor. John Obafunwa, an atomic pathologist said, staying away from alcohol intake, smoking, canned foods and low salt intake can help tackle infectious diseases.

Prof. Obafunwa said, "reports have shown that Environmental factors like coal or exposure to rubber, diets low in fruits and vegetables are associated with the gastric cancer".

He advised everyone to pay attention to H. Pylori and seek treatment early as this will help to eliminate the possibility of developing gastric cancer.

" H pylori does not necessarily translate to the development of gastric cancer, but, it is a function of managing the particular condition and hoping that there are no other factors superimposed". Obafunwa

He appreciated the Lagos State Government for helping to identify the majority of the cases of H. Pylori and Cholera despite its dense population.

I want the government to collaborate more and fund indigenous research in the management and treatment of H pylori, and educate people especially those in the rural areas on safe and best hygiene practices.

Citizens Pension hits the market in Grand style, promises highest standard of professionalism

The National Pension Commission, PenCom, has assured all pension contributors and retirees that, their retirement savings are secure, while the organization will continue to work tirelessly to safeguard their future.  

The Director - General, National Pension Commission, Mrs Omolola Oloworaran, gave the assurance in a message to the official launch of Citizens Pensions Ltd in Lagos. 

The DG, who welcomed the organization into the fold of licensed Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), said the license came with great responsibility, to uphold the trust of contributors and adhere to the highest standards of professionalism. 

 " I expected you to contribute meaningfully to the goals, offer Nigerians more choices and improved access to best-in-class pension services" he charged.  

 Oloworaran, noted that,, theimproveon reflects the growing confidence in the Contributory Pension Scheme CPS) and uderscores PenCom’s commitment to fostering a competitive, inclusive, and sustainable pension industry.  

He explained that the existence of the new administrator depends on fulfilling the rules guiding the operations adding that, it was  “Approval-In-Principle (AIP) to carry on the business of a Pension Fund Administrator subject to fulfilling the A.I.P conditions within ninety (90) days. 

Her message was delivered by the Zonal Head, South-West Zonal Office, National Pension Commission, Mr Shola Adeseun

Earlier, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, of Citizens Pensions, Helen Da-Souza identified the need for in-depth education to ensure that citizens understand their pension contributions and avoid misconceptions.

Da-Souza said, pension plan was essential to safeguard the quality of life and health at an advanced age as it provides a stable and dependable source of income after retirement.

" Many people are not in the know about pensions, most of them just make contributions, they don't even follow up on the scheme "The reason we want to embark  on in-depth education of citizens of Nigeria "Da-Souza

“We work closely with customers from their first income to retirement, providing. Listed service and support,’’ she promised. 

The Chairman of Citizens Pensions, Chukwuka Onwuchekwa, said the firm was s,epping into the space with a clear mission to provide retirement solutions that empower individuals and institutions to achieve their long-term financial goals.

According to him, this will ensure a comfortable and dignified retirement for all.

“At Citizens Pensions, we are inspired by these advancements. But inspiration alone is not enough. We understand that innovation must be adapted to local realities.

“Nigeria, with its dynamic population and unique challenges, presents an incredible opportunity to leapfrog traditional models and embrace a future where pensions are not just an obligation but a cornerstone of financial empowerment”.

Onwuchekwa called for collaboration with other PFAs to transform the pension system. “But let us be clear: building a transformative pension system is not a solo endeavor" he stressed 

 we invite collaboration. From regulators to financial institutions, from employers to employees. Yes, we must work together to create a system that is inclusive, efficient, and sustainable’’.

He thanked the National Pension Commission (PenCom) for their dedication to the growth and stability of Nigeria’s pension sector.

ECOWAS Commission Holds Stakeholders Meeting on Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project.

The ECOWAS Commission at the weekend held two stakeholder engagements on the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project. 

The engagements were held at Agbara and Seme, a border town between Nigeria and the Benin Republic.

Royal fathers, youths, community leaders, transport workers Union, border town communities, the military, Police, and para-military organizations such as the Customs, Immigration, engaged the ECOWAS Commission and the Ministry of Works officials.

The Director of Communication and Visibility Study for the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project, Mr. David Nwedu said, that the engagement was necessary especially as the design phase will be completed in May after which the construction will begin.

He said, " the construction will bring a lot of boom along communities on the highway corridor as there will be an increase in commerce, accommodations and other needs of the workers".

The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha said that the engagement would be the last before the commencement of the project.

" After this stakeholders engagement, the Ministry will not entertain any request for review of what has been agreed".

"Please, I want to plead for your support my Royal fathers, youths, and community leaders, do not disturb contractors on site when the project starts ". Kesha appealed 

She gave an assurance that, every property owner that was displaced for the project would be compensated and commended the former Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola for securing the right of way for the project and gazzetting same.

The Controller of Work stated that children of natives of the communities along the Corridor who have the necessary qualifications and skills would be employed to work on the project. 

Responding to questions, Mrs. Kesha said that, " there won't be bus stops or parks on the Highway Corridor and advised transport workers Unions to buy land that they can use as motor parks".

By Fabian Anawo 

5years under tree: National Theatre staff protests... Calls on President Tinubu to intervene

The Joint Congress of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service, Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) have raised concerns over the continued denial of access to designated offices at the National Theatre Complex in Lagos.

At a world news conference, the Unions condemned the situation, citing worker displacement and suspicions surrounding the concession of the national edifice.

To this end, the Joint Unions of the National Theatre, including RATTAWU and AUPCTRE, staged a peaceful procession around the complex, carrying placards with messages such as“18 months is now 5 years—workers are still under trees;” “Loss of billions of naira in revenue while keeping us under trees;” “National Theatre is not for sale;” and “Workers deserve rest and peace of mind in their offices.”

Speaking after the procession, Comrade Ishmail Adejumo, Chairman of RATTAWU, Lagos State Chapter, called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and reopen the National Theatre for workers.

"Despite a series of meetings, consultations, and letters to appropriate quarters informing them about our members' challenges, since the renovation, we have been seeing some clandestine movement in and around this complex."

"And that's why we are calling on President Bola Tinubu, the honorable.

Minister for Arts and Culture and Creative Economy, the house committee chairman in the lower and upper chamber, and all critical stakeholders to quickly as a matter of urgency open this national iconic symbol and allow them access". Adejimo appealed 

Comrade Adejumo expressed concerns over an alleged concession plan, warning that it could lead to mass job losses. 

" The prolonged restriction has not only affected productivity but has also caused psychological distress and professional displacement". He stated

On his part, the Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Lagos State Chapter, Comrade Olabisi Adebayo, emphasized that the National Theatre is a national heritage and that workers were initially told they would be back in their offices after 18 months.

However, five years later, they are still working under trees.

He outlined key demands to include relocation of workers to their offices and the provision of a conducive working environment.

According to Adebayo, All the staff are working under trees whereby we have a very beautiful structure on the ground. While our men are under the trees, they are still working and generating income.

" And if we can work in a conducive environment we are going to add to that. All those money that we have lost now, invariably will affect the economy". Adebayo

He explained and I quote, "The former minister of information and culture told us that they would spend 25 billion Naira but they spent 100 billion Naira, and up to date they did not put the structure in operation".

Some affected workers also shared their experiences of working under trees, describing it as challenging and demoralizing.

"Couple with the harsh weather, we have been doing our work, paying into government coffers. Before the renovation commenced, then Minister Alhaji Lai Mohammed, called us that they wanted to renovate the place and after renovation, we are going back to our offices".

Five years back now, the place is under lock. That's why we are calling on government so that we can go back and have a conducive environment", adding that, "the condition has been very harsh, despite the poor working condition, we have been able to still generate revenue into the TSA. "When we experience rainfall, we normally run into a bar where they sell food and drinks, writing memos under trees, that has been our situation". Responders said.

Renovation of the National Theatre began in July 2021 under the Federal Government’s plan to revamp the creative sector and unlock job opportunities for young Nigerians. 

It is gathered that the upgrade covers various facilities, including the 4,000-seater main bowl, banquet halls, cinemas, VIP spaces, clinics, fire station, and extensive roof repairs.

World Tuberculosis Day: stakeholders advocate support for People Living with TB.

Governments, healthcare providers, communities, and individuals have been urged to stand together in the fight against Tuberculosis, Support those battling the disease, encourage screening and treatment, and speak up against stigma in all its forms.  

In a message from the Centre for HIV/AIDS and STD Research (CHISTRE) on World TB Day 2025,  This year's theme, "Yes! We Can End TB!",  is a call to action, reminding world leaders that with collective effort, innovation, and unwavering determination, TB can be eliminated because it is a preventable and curable disease.  

According to the Executive Director of, the Centre for HIV/AIDS and STD Research (CHISTRE), Nduka Ozor, Tuberculosis has continued to affect millions worldwide, particularly in vulnerable communities. Yet, one of the greatest barriers to TB care is stigma. 

" Many people suffering from TB face discrimination, fear, and isolation which hinder their access to treatment and support, saying that the cycle must be broken". he said

He explained further that, "TB is not a curse, nor a death sentence it is a disease that can be treated and cured, advising that, " No one should feel ashamed or afraid to seek care".  

Executive Director, of Journalists Against AIDS, JAAIDS, Ms Laide Akanni, wants the federal government to prioritize the health of the citizens, especially with the withdrawal of funding by the United States government which is the highest global funder.

 

Ms Akanni stated that sincere commitment from political office holders, religious and community leaders and making a recommitment to creating more awareness and support to end Tuberculosis would bring hope to the people as several commitments made before now by world leaders have not been realized.

" There were commitments made that countries will be contributing a significant amount to end TB by 2027, The funding landscape on Tuberculosis across the globe is changing and that's why leaders need to step up more than ever before, it also means that we need to invest more domestic resources to enable us to meet the target ". Akanni

"Tuberculosis has affected millions worldwide, particularly in vulnerable communities, Yet, one of the greatest barriers to TB care is stigma".

She called on those who have tested positive for TB to take their drugs religiously to avoid infecting their loved ones.

" Treatment is free in government hospitals across the country, adhere to it and complete the treatment, because people who are in close contact are at risk so that they don't have active TB, adding that, they will place them on what is called, " TB Preventive Therapy".to prevent themselves from the onset of TB," she advised 

To support the campaign, the Steering Committee for TB, Office of the wife of the Lagos State governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwoolu, D.r Folasade Fadare has mandated that chairpersons and wives of Chairmen to lead the mobilization of volunteers to drive the sensitization for treatment and prevention in households, schools, worship centers and the hard - to - reach areas, among other levels of the grassroots.

Dr Fadare who identified stigma as one of the reasons for denial appealed to anyone who coughs for up to two weeks to present themselves for screening, assuring that early treatment leads to a cure within one and six months.

In an interview, Lagos State TB  Coordinator, TB People, Mrs Oluseyi Kadiri, described the group of survivors as veritable assets to awareness creation, advocacy on access to medication and adherence as well as protection of the rights of patients, because, " they have seen it all and are capable of sharing their experiences to encourage others ". 

Secretary of Lagos State Stop TB Partnership, Dr Ime Okon, clamored for creative strategies by stakeholders to ensure more cases are detected to meet the fifty thousand annual target towards elimination of Tuberculosis in lagos.

 

" If we must get it right, all hands must be on deck, people.must speak up so action can be taken. But we will not rest on our oas untill we achieve our aim ". 

At a forum in Lagos, the Manager, the State TB and Leprosy Control, Dr Olusola Sokoya, pointed out that, Lagos has contributed over three billion naira on Tuberculosis Prevention and this has increased the detected cases from eight thousand in 2019 to over nineteen thousand in 2024.

" Solving stigmatization and discrimination will reduce the Tuberculosis scourge by fifty percent, assuring that more drugs for the treatment of Tuberculosis will arrive in the country in weeks". He promised

Group review projects implemented with stolen returned assets: calls for inclusion of victims in decision-making.

The Federal government has been urged to maintain the Offenders Register by expanding the current list of alleged perpetrators of corruption crimes to ensure that offenders are added as stipulated by the Global Forum on Asset Recovery, GFAR, Principle 9.

This is one of the recommendations of the just concluded research report on implementing Key GFAR Principles in Asset Return to Nigeria after visits by CSOs and CLEEN Foundation to the three projects to ascertain the level of work done and present their findings to stakeholders for review and validation. 

The recovery and management of stolen assets, such as the $311.8 million recovered loot from the Bailiwick of Jersey are said to be used for the Lagos-Ibadan Road, Abuja-Kano Road, and 2nd Niger bridge projects as against insinuations that the monies were re-looted. 

The Executive Director, of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, ANEEJ, Mr David Ugolor, said, that having monitored the inflow of the looted assets and activities relating to transparency and accountability, inclusion of non-government organizations, return of funds to beneficiaries, and the preclusion of benefit to offenders which is commendable. 

The research however identified gaps in the asset recovery process and provided recommendations for improving future asset return agreements.

For instance, " Abacha Loot (III) of $311.8 million was covered by a Tripartite Agreement (between the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Bailiwick of Jersey, and the USA) and was signed in Washington, DC, on 3rd February 2020 in line with GFAR principle, it took both countries 13 years to effect the return of the asset " Ugolor.

He noted that A 2020 MoU between Nigeria and Ireland returned Abacha IV, €5.5m or $6.3m following a forfeiture order by a high court in Ireland in 2015, A 2022 Agreement on ‘Forfeited Mecosta/Sani Mohammed Assets’ (Abacha V), amounting to $23,493,724.98, made use of the existing structures, procedures, and mechanisms already defined in the 2020 US-FRN-Jersey 2020 Tripartite Agreement on Abacha III. This was also plowed into the 3 legacy projects.

Still talking Transparency and accountability,  Mr. Ugolor stated that "A 2021 MoU between UK and Nigeria returned James Ibori & Associates loot totaling £4,2m,"  A 2022 MOU between UK & FGN returned the Foster Wheeler assets amounting to £210,610

Another 2024 Agreement Between FGN & Jersey returned Jeremiah Useni/Miner Funds amounting to £2,125,944.

All the above-recovered assets he explained, have been plugged into the 3 Landmark projects of the 2nd Niger Bridge, Lagos-Ibadan Express Road, and Abuja-Kano Express Road, adding that, " Lagos-Ibadan Express Road and 2nd Niger Bridge have been largely completed using the recovered assets"

Transparency and accountability---3 which is the Abuja-Kano road got some issues leading to the termination of the contract of JB and re-awarded to another contractor, " Recovered $954,807.40 Alamieyeseigha loot returned from the US were still domiciled in the ‘CBN Designated Dollar Account’ 2 years after return ". he said 

Ugolor disclosed, " A total sum of US$355 million has been received so far during the five years covered by

this research compared to an estimated $ 10 billion that left through IFF, adding that, from the 7 agreements and MoUs, 4 specified costs recovery three did not. " For instance, Jersey cost recovery of $311m is $5m ". Ugolor stressed 

Quoting open procurement in line with the 2007 Act for utilization of assets

Awareness he noted that the government installed signposts at every 30 km intervals to indicate that the infrastructure roads projects and bridges were completed with a part of the returned assets.

Looking at the poverty level, it is on record that, 140million Nigerians, or 65% of its population are said to be multi-dimensionally poor, with a high unemployment rate.

" World Bank statistics show that from the 122 million Nigerians in the working age bracket, only 31 million are employed, and on Petty and Grand Corruption, Nigeria ranks 140th out of 180 countries on TI’s 2024 report",  Ugolor revered 

He said although the 2020 UNCTAD report puts illicit financial flight from Africa alone at $88 billion a year, Nigeria has made strident efforts at combating corruption since the return to Democratic rule in 1999, the reason it established agencies to arrest the situation.

The report findings by the CLEEN Foundation revealed that the roads have been completed and are all beneficial to the public having eliminated traffic congestion, and stress both on humans and vehicles but feedback from participants indicates that a lot still needs to be done in the areas of road mapping, the introduction of weighbridges, lightings, pedestrian bridges, security and under whose jurisdiction it is to maintain the roads, describing fee allocated for monitoring as too much, is of concern. 

The Deputy Programme Manager FCDO, Mr. Anicetus Atakpu, promised that the organization would continue to support the cause and wants the Government of Nigeria to address the poor awareness of returned assets and beneficial utilization that could help to address skepticism and build public trust.

Consultant on the Project, Mrs Sarah Praise Ikhile who represented the Audit firm, Mr Emmanuel Agbeboaye & Co, raised some concerns that some of the project imputes were not available. 

   " There is an urgent need to complete the Abuja - Kano road". 

But are Victims of the loot, part of the decision-making relating to project prioritization?

The report submits that there appear to be limited opportunities for sub-national governments to make their inputs and be held accountable, Ugolor quoting " the 2023 Agreement signed between USA and Nigeria on Alamieyeseigha Forfeited Assets ($954,807.40), which is meant for the government and people of Bayelsa State, yet they have no input into the agreement ". 

The report wants the federal government to consult Civil society and communities in the prioritization process on the choice of roads and bridges, Preventive measures against illicit financial flows should be instituted, such as periodic citizens’ engagements and quarterly reports to the public.

The report also called for the Overhaul of the Criminal Justice System for Speedier asset recovery and returns and work with asset-returning countries to ensure speedier and more effective criminal prosecution and timely repatriation of all forfeited assets.

Provide Central asset recovery agency through Amendment of POCA, 2022,  Act, 2022, reflecting the provisions for a central recovery agency to coordinate the activities of ACAs, facilitate the passing of the Whistleblower Protection Bill to support asset recovery and management to further enhance operational independence project completion audit mechanism to ensure all projects are audited independent of the implementing agencies before the issuance of Satisfactory completion certificate, among other demands.

Lagos marks 2025 World Oral Health Day...Distribute IEC materials, and care kits to pupils.

The Lagos State government has identified poor oral health as one of the reasons for low self-esteem, anxiety, and dietary deficiencies, that affect a child's development and academic performance. 

 Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, made this known while addressing pupils of Oregun Junior and Senior High Schools, Ikeja, commemorating the year 2025 World Oral Health Day.

The event, which focused on promoting oral hygiene among children, featured health education sessions,  demonstrations, and distributing of oral care kits to pupils.

The reason for World Oral Health Day, according to experts, is to identify the benefits of a healthy mouth and raise global awareness of oral hygiene, especially among children. 

 Dr. Ogunyemi stated. "Oral diseases can impact not only on individuals but also on communities and economies, making preventive care essential.”

She stressed the vital connection between oral health and mental well-being, noting that children with tooth pain, discoloration, or swelling may suffer from social anxiety and embarrassment. Hence, she encouraged students to prioritize their dental hygiene. She noted that “a healthy smile boosts confidence and self-esteem. You cannot be happy if you are constantly in pain due to poor oral health.”

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, urged the students to limit sugar consumption and adopt proper oral care habits.

 He warned against the dangers of excessive sweet intake, explaining that sugar residues stick to the teeth, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that leads to tooth decay.

"I know children love sweets, but you must understand that bacteria thrive on the sugar left in your mouth, leading to cavities and bad breath," he cautioned.

 "Good oral hygiene ensures fresh breath, healthy gums, and a confident smile. You don't want to be the child that others avoid because of mouth odor.” Ogboye 

Director, of Family Health and Nutrition, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Folashade Oludara, who praised the collaborative efforts of government agencies and school authorities in promoting oral health, urged pupils to share their newfound knowledge with their parents, siblings, and peers, reinforcing the importance of proper oral care.

The Principals of Oregun Junior and Senior High Schools, Mrs. Adesola Ajimuda and Mr. Olatunji Sunday Opeolu, expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Ministry of Health for selecting their schools for the initiative.

They emphasized that the lessons learned would have a ripple effect on families and communities, helping to instill lifelong healthy habits in children.

"When children learn good oral hygiene, they pass it on to their families. "This program is not just about today, it is about securing a healthier future for our students," Mrs. Ajimuda remarked.

The event also featured live demonstrations of effective tooth brushing techniques, led by oral health experts. Pupils eagerly participated in the hands-on exercises, learning how to properly clean their teeth, gums, and tongue. Teachers were also trained to reinforce these habits in school.

Pupils participated in a quiz session on oral health, where winners received prizes and additional oral care materials. The initiative was designed to make learning about oral hygiene fun, interactive, and memorable for students.

Oral care kits containing toothbrushes, toothpaste, and informational materials were distributed to all pupils. Health officials urged them to commit to daily brushing, regular dental checkups, and reduced sugar intake to prevent oral diseases.

The theme of this year’s celebration, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind,” underscores the link between oral health and overall well-being, particularly in children, with the focus on equipping students with more knowledge and practical skills to maintain healthy teeth and gums, thereby preventing tooth decay and other dental issues.