WSM Day, NGOs advocates uptake of Family Planning services.

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Safe Motherhood Day 2025, in line with the theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” 

The Challenge Initiative, TCI, says, Nigeria is celebrating a quiet but powerful revolution safeguarding the lives of mothers and children, the rise in access to family planning (FP) and childbirth spacing services across the country.

At the heart of this progress is The Challenge Initiative (TCI) — a proven model that puts local governments in the driver’s seat to sustainably scale reproductive health solutions. 

Nigeria with the support by TCI have a proven model that puts local governments in the driver’s seat to to constantly reduce reproductive health issues.

In partnership with over twelve state governments, The Challenge Initiative  TCI, is making motherhood safer, families healthier and futures brighter.

“Safe motherhood starts before the first contraction — it begins with informed choices, timely access to family planning, and a community that supports women at every step of their reproductive journey.

In an interview Country Team Lead, TCI Nigeria Dr. Taiwo Johnson says, "What we are seeing in Nigeria today is a bold move from awareness to action, from promises to programmes that truly save lives.” 

TCI over the years had empowered state governments to take ownership, scale up proven interventions, and drive impact across more states with an expanded reach that now includes both urban and underserved rural areas.

He explained that in all, Policy, progress and state-by-state success stories are

across Nigeria and states are translating family planning commitments into visible progress. 

Dr. Johnson pointed out that, through government leadership, community engagement, youth-centred services, and strategic partnerships, there are growing signs of impact. 

" The good thing is that, health facilities are experiencing increased client trust, local governments are mobilizing resources to reach more communities, and advocacy efforts are helping to reshape public perceptions—particularly through youth engagement, male involvement, and outreach to underserved populations ". He said

He stated that, even in complex humanitarian settings, family planning is being integrated with maternal health services, ensuring that care continues.

Johnson explained further, that despite the encouraging gains, much more still needed to be done, because progress is not yet uniform and there are gaps in access, quality, and equity persists. 

He urged all implementing states to sustain momentum by strengthening service delivery, expand access to marginalized groups, and address lingering myths and barriers. 

To truly fulfill the promise of reproductive health and rights for all, Johnson said, "no one should be left behind" noting that, continued investment, political will, and community-driven action are critical to ensuring that family planning services reach every woman, man, and young person who needs them—no matter where they live.

He pointed out that, a new standard of care for mothers and newborns was necessary because every year, Nigeria loses thousands of women to pregnancy-related complications — many of which are preventable through proper spacing and voluntary family planning. 

Efforts by TCI shows that when women have access to safe, affordable, and culturally appropriate FP services, maternal mortality drops, newborn outcomes improve, and families thrive. He stated.

The path to safe motherhood is not just paved in hospitals. It starts with conversation, choice, and community support,” says Onche Odeh, Project Lead at Development Communications Network.  

Odeh believe that, Looking ahead: hope made real as the 2025 theme emphasizes, “Healthy Beginnings” — like timely birth spacing — are key to unlocking “Hopeful Futures.”

TCI’s support according to Odeh has proven that states can lead their own reproductive health transformations. 

With growing political will, sustainable funding, and grassroots engagement, Nigeria is closer than ever to making safe motherhood not just a goal — but a guarantee.- he stated. 

NAFDAC mandates Bioequivalence in medicines for efficacy, quality, and safety...Ensures generic drugs, and scientific meet standards.

 

On Thursday, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) unveiled a new regulatory measure mandating bioequivalence, BE, studies for all generic drug products in Nigeria.

Disclosing this at a news briefing in Lagos, the agency noted that bioequivalence, as a critical scientific standard, will ensure that generic drugs deliver the same therapeutic benefits as their counterparts internationally.

Explaining in detail, the Director General of the Agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye stated that the initiative is part of NAFDAC’s activities to protect public health, check the circulation of substandard medicines, and promote rational drug use.

“Bioequivalence is not just a scientific term—it is a commitment to quality, safety, and efficacy. 

It assures the public that generic medicines will work just as well as the original brands they replace.

“Bioequivalence studies measure how a generic medicine is absorbed and distributed in the body compared to an innovator drug. 

When properly conducted, these studies provide scientific proof that generics can be safely substituted in treatment.”

Recognizing the scale of the pharmaceutical market and the need for industry adjustment, she said NAFDAC is adopting a phased implementation approach. 

She added that essential medicines such as antimalarial, antibiotics, and products for maternal and child health are being prioritized.

While acknowledging that only a small percentage of drugs currently meet the new standards, she disclosed that NAFDAC is receiving a growing number of submissions from local manufacturers responding to the mandate for BE study reports. 

“We are not expecting 100 percent compliance overnight. But we are firm in our direction, and the industry is responding.

She said to achieve this NAFDAC has developed a strategic roadmap and is implementing it systematically to align stakeholders and facilitate compliance. 

“First, the Agency has issued comprehensive regulations and guidelines for the pharmaceutical industry, detailing how to achieve therapeutically equivalent generic drug products through BE studies. 

These documents are accessible on NAFDAC’s official website (www.nafdac.gov.ng). 

“A specific “Note to Industry” has been released, outlining requirements for Contract Research Organisations (CROs), also available on the website. 

“NAFDAC is investing in capacity building by training its staff and stakeholders—including healthcare practitioners, researchers, CROs, and industry players. 

This ongoing training ensures a shared understanding and supports a smooth, effective, and sustainable implementation process.”

Adeyeye said the agency is also investing in capacity building, and training its regulatory staff, industry stakeholders, and healthcare practitioners to ensure broad understanding and seamless implementation of the new framework.

She revealed that it has held virtual meetings with key international manufacturers, mainly in India, to ensure that imported products also meet the new requirements.

“Any product coming into this country must meet our standards. If you're exporting to Nigeria, you must provide bioequivalence data.”

The agency also used the platform to caution the public against purchasing medicines from unlicensed sources such as kiosks and corner stores. 

NAFDAC urged Nigerians to obtain medicines only from registered pharmacies where products are traceable.

“Do not buy drugs from unknown sources. When you buy from a certified pharmacy, we can trace the product through the receipt, and hold suppliers accountable if problems arise.”

She further cited a previous case where a faulty medicine was traced to a manufacturer in the Northwest zone, leading to the temporary closure of the production line until corrective actions were taken.

Nothing that the NAFDAC’s bioequivalence initiative was part of a broader effort to build a trusted, evidence-based pharmaceutical ecosystem in Nigeria, she reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to a transparent, science-led regulatory process that prioritizes the health and safety of all Nigerians.

“We are setting a new benchmark. Our goal is simple: to ensure that every medicine on the Nigerian market is effective, safe, and trusted. Bioequivalence is how we get there.”

Senator Oluremi inaugurated projects in Bayelsa and advocated proper handling of the projects.

Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has inaugurated a free medical mission and Health Insurance Scheme in the Niger Delta.

Performing the ceremony at Otuasega Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, she urged the people to take advantage of the interventions and support efforts to enhance development in rural communities.

 The scheme is a partnership between the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC and the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative Twenty-Twenty-Five Education and Health Programme.

 While in Bayelsa State, Senator Oluremi Tinubu inaugurated the refurbished Cottage Hospital and newly built Community Secondary School at Otuasega undertaken by the Niger Delta Development Commission.

Other projects include the launch of the 2025 Medical Outreach in the Niger Delta, the Donation of 11 Ambulances to selected tertiary health institutions in the region, the donation of desks, benches and textbooks, medical equipment, new 4-bed ultra-modern operating theatre, labour and delivery room, 100KVA Sound proof generator and 60KVA Solar Power and Digital Colour Doppler UltraSound System among others.

On the occasion, the Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the free medical outreach and other initiatives were in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President geared towards improving the lives of citizens, especially in the Niger Delta for the better.

The Minister of Regional Development, Engineer Abubakar Momoh who stated that the success of the current board and management of the NDDC was due to the support of the President, challenged the newly created regional interventionist agencies across the country to follow suit by implementing policies and programmes that impact directly on the lives of the people.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku while reiterating the resolve of the current board and management to the development of the nine States in the Niger Delta, gave an assurance that the Agency would focus on delivering on its mandate.

In a remark, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State who solicited continued partnership between States in the region, the NDDC and the Federal Government to fast-track the development of the area expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for approving the award of a contract for phase two of the Nembe-Brass Road.

A former Speaker of the Old Rivers State House of Assembly, Chief Claudius Enegesi, who spoke on behalf of the Otuasega community, expressed gratitude to the First Lady and the NDDC for the projects in the area.

In separate goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the NDDC, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, said the National Assembly would continue to appropriate resources and provide oversight for the region's development. At the same time, the World Health Origination's Country Representative, Dr Walter Mulombo, reiterated the WHO’s readiness to partner with the government to provide universal health coverage to vulnerable people and communities.

By: Alambo Datonye

Lagos, ANPA trains health workers to combat maternal deaths.

In a bid to reduce maternal and child mortality in Nigeria, the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), in partnership with the Lagos State Government, has commenced a one-week intensive training for health workers in Lagos State.

The training is also meant to improve emergency medical response and boost chronic disease management in public health facilities.

Speaking at the event, the Director, Medical Administration, Training and Programmes, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, described the training as a strategic move to curb maternal mortality by empowering frontline health workers. 

“This collaboration with ANPA is to build the capacity of our healthcare workers in managing one of the leading causes of maternal mortality—Postpartum Hemorrhage,” she said.

According to Dr Erinosho, the selected facilities were chosen based on data indicating a high prevalence of PPH. 

" The trained participants would not only return to improve care at their stations but would be responsible for cascading the knowledge to colleagues, thereby institutionalizing the life-saving skills across the state". Erinosho

Earlier, "there was a comprehensive exercise on Obstetrics Emergencies, specifically Postpartum Hemorrhage, which had over 20 healthcare workers selected from 10 health facilities identified with high incidences of maternal deaths.

The President of, the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), Dr. Cliff Eke, who led the ANPA delegation from the United States, described the year 2025 ANPA Week meant to mark its 30th anniversary,

as the most expansive in the history of the association.

“This is the biggest of our ANPA weeks in 30 years. Lagos is the heartbeat of Nigeria, and what happens here can be replicated across the country,” he said.

Dr. Eke emphasized the importance of tackling postpartum hemorrhage, noting that it remains the number one killer of women during childbirth.

 “Losing over 500ml of blood after vaginal delivery, or 1000ml after a cesarean can be fatal," This training equips our healthcare workers to prevent or manage such situations effectively,” he added.

The Team Lead for the Obstetrics Emergencies Module at ANPA, Dr. Chinyere Anyaogu, reiterated the critical importance of early detection and aggressive intervention.

 “Postpartum hemorrhage is catastrophic and happens quickly. Prevention and preparedness are key to reducing not just mortality, but also long-term morbidity for mothers,” she noted.

She praised the Lagos State Ministry of Health for its commitment and described Lagos as a strategic launchpad for systemic change. “If we can make a dent in maternal mortality here, we can replicate the success across Nigeria,” she said.

Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at FMC Ebute Meta, Dr. Odofin James Taiye, a facilitator, said the hands-on training would prepare participants to make critical decisions during emergencies.

 “We’re not just teaching theory; this is practical, life-saving work. Knowing when to escalate care can be the difference between life and death,” he said.

Participants in the training expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge and skills. Dr Juliet Obiorah, Senior Medical Officer at Amuwo Odofin Maternal and Child Centre, described the session as timely and impactful.

 “I have learned to assess post-delivery bleeding thoroughly and when to escalate care to prevent fatalities,” she said.

Dr. Ogheneovo Okpare, Medical Officer at General Hospital, Gbagada, praised the organizers for the initiative. 

“This training has sharpened our skills in estimating blood loss, using uterotonics, and identifying birth canal injuries. We are ready to step down the training and improve maternal care in our hospitals,” he said.

The ANPA 30th anniversary celebration is anchored on health “giving back to the motherland” through impactful partnerships and service delivery.

The Programme will last one week.

AP Governorship Candidate in 2023 felicitates President Tinubu on his birthday... Prays for success in service to Nigeria.

The 2023 Governorship Candidate of the Accord Party in Akwa Ibom State, Dr Emem Coffie, has congratulated the President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his 73rd birthday.

Dr Coffie noted that it was a good thing that the special occasion coincided with the sacred celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, so it is the Lord's doing.

" I, Dr. Emem Coffie, MFR, on behalf of the Leadership and members of Accord Party, Akwa Ibom State, extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes ".

" Your exemplary leadership, commitment to national renewal, and dedication to democratic governance continue to inspire millions, " Your visionary economic and infrastructural reforms reaffirm your resolve to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth and global relevance". He said

According to Dr Emem, Reflecting on the political journey that led to the President's victory,  he noted, " I deeply appreciate the engagements with your esteemed representative then, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, which inspired my decision to rally Accord Party’s support in Akwa Ibom for you at the presidential elections in 2023.

" Today, our confidence in your leadership stands justified as we witness your administration’s many strides ". Reaffirmed

As you mark this double celebration, " I pray for Almighty Allah’s continued blessings of strength, wisdom, and good health upon you, Adding that, "May the season bring renewed hope, peace, and prosperity to our nation under your able leadership".Emem 

" Once again, congratulations, Mr. President! Wishing you a joyous celebration and continued success in service to Nigeria.

Abasi udióñ." he prayed.

Ighodalo to challenge Edo tribunal’s verdict moves to Court of Appeal.

The people of Edo State have been urged to remain peaceful, calm, and law-abiding, even as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 19 September governorship election in Edo, Mr Asue Ighodalo promises to challenge the tribunal’s judgment at the Court of Appeal.

To this end, Ighodalo said, “I have instructed my legal team to proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge this decision, which we consider a serious miscarriage of justice. 

The Edo election tribunal, sitting in Abuja on Wednesday, reaffirmed Gov. Monday Okpebholo’s victory and dismissed the petitions from the PDP and Ighodalo.

In a statement in Benin, Ighodalo said his decision to challenge the judgment was to protect the Edo people’s collective rights and ensure they freely determine their future.

" As a committed democrat, I respect the judiciary as the last hope of the common man and urge all Edo people to remain peaceful, calm, and law-abiding,” he stated.

According to Ighodalo, "This is not the end of the journey but the beginning of a greater struggle for justice, democracy, and the sanctity of the people’s mandate".

“While we may not all agree with the verdict, we remain steadfast in our belief that the rule of law must continue as democracy’s foundational bedrock.

The NAN reports that Ighodalo commended the people for their massive support, sincere love, and belief in their shared vision for a prosperous Edo, which had fuelled their journey.

“For us, this has never been about personal ambition but about our conviction to create a clear ‘Pathway to Prosperity’ for Edo while upholding democracy’s core values.

He stated, “This is not about me or any single individual, it is about democracy’s essence, our collective right to determine our future, and our legacy for generations unborn.

" We remain resolute. We remain committed. We shall not waver in our pursuit of truth and justice,” Ighodalo promised.

Tribunal Confirms Okpebholo as Edo Governor.

The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has upheld the election of Monday Okpebholo from the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the Governor of Edo State. 

On Wednesday, the three-member tribunal issued three separate judgments, ruling that the petitions filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo; the Action Alliance (AA) and its National Chairman, Adekunle Omoaje; and the Accord Party and its candidate, Bright Enabulele, were without merit. Consequently, the tribunal dismissed all three petitions.

The legal team representing the PDP and Ighodalo announced plans to challenge the tribunal's judgment in the Court of Appeal, asserting that they fulfilled their obligations to demonstrate that the election was neither free nor fair.

In the lead judgment, Tribunal Chairman Justice Wilfred Kpochi addressed two key issues in the PDP and Ighodalo's petition. The first issue was whether the petitioners provided sufficient evidence to support their claim that the election was invalid due to non-compliance with the Electoral Act. 

Justice Kpochi, after evaluating the evidence presented by the petitioners, concluded that they failed to meet the legal burden of proof required. He noted that none of the 19 witnesses called by the petitioners were relevant witnesses capable of providing eyewitness accounts of events at the polling units contested in the election. Most of the witnesses were either ward collation agents or local government collation agents, with the petitioners not calling polling unit agents or registered voters who actually voted.

He stated, “The failure of the petitioners to call polling agents, presiding officers, or even registered voters is fatal to their case. The petitioners did not present any substantial evidence to prove that the relevant forms were filled out improperly. The first to fourteenth witnesses only provided hearsay evidence because they were not present at the polling units during the election.”

Justice Kpochi also criticized the petitioners' star witness, the Director of Research and Strategy, for not being involved in the election process. He ruled that all documents and materials submitted by the petitioners, including election documents and Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS) machines, were not adequately demonstrated or linked to their claims.

He emphasized, “It is clear that these documents were presented without competent witness testimony to validate them. No eyewitnesses who could attest to the election process at the polling units were called. The court is not obligated to scrutinize documents when no witnesses connect them to the petitioners’ case. The BIVAS machines were never demonstrated at trial, nor did any witnesses testify regarding their contents.”

The tribunal also addressed the second issue regarding whether Okpebholo won the election with a majority of lawful votes over the petitioners. Justice Kpochi made similar observations about the insufficient evidence from the petitioners, stating that they failed to prove that aspect of their petition.

In the first judgment, concerning the AA petition filed by Omoaje, the tribunal dismissed it for lacking merit. The petitioners had claimed, among other points, that the AA candidate was excluded from the election because the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) accepted candidate details from an individual named Kenneth Eze, whom they alleged was not the party's National Chairman. They also argued that the AA was unlawfully prevented from nominating a rightful candidate since INEC did not accept the nomination details for the candidate whose form Omoaje signed as National Chairman.

The tribunal ruled that the petitioners did not provide sufficient evidence to support claims of exclusion or electoral malpractice. Additionally, it stated that since Omoaje was not a candidate in the election, he lacked the standing to challenge the election results.

The tribunal clarified that, having admitted that the AA participated in the election, the petitioners could not later claim exclusion. Earlier in the judgment, the tribunal upheld preliminary objections raised by INEC, APC, and Okpebholo, challenging the validity of the petitions. It ruled that the issues raised were related to leadership disputes within the AA, which do not fall under the tribunal's jurisdiction and were pre-election matters that had become statute-barred by the time of filing.