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Category: Health

  • Africa CDC appoints Osinbajo as Senior Strategic Adviser

    Africa CDC appoints Osinbajo as Senior Strategic Adviser

    ABUJA, April 7, 2026 (NPA) — The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has appointed former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo as Senior Strategic Adviser to Director-General Jean Kaseya, reinforcing leadership capacity for continental health priorities.

    The announcement was made by Margaret Edwin, Director of Communication and Public Information at Africa CDC, in a statement issued Monday.

    Edwin explained that the appointment aligns with the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda, which seeks to strengthen Africa’s voice in global health, boost domestic financing, and expand local production of health commodities.

    She said Osinbajo would advise on Africa’s positioning in global health architecture reforms, sustainable health financing, local manufacturing, and building strategic partnerships to advance continental health resilience and cooperation.

    Edwin added that the former vice-president brings exceptional experience across governance, finance, law, and diplomacy, noting that his leadership would be critical as Africa seeks greater authority in shaping its health future. “This appointment reflects Africa CDC’s commitment to mobilising African leadership of the highest calibre in service of the continent’s health security, sovereignty, and development,” she said.

    She further noted that Osinbajo’s experience in public policy and governance would support efforts to build resilient health systems across African Union member states, particularly in pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response initiatives.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Osinbajo, a Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, served as Nigeria’s vice-president from 2015 to 2023, contributing to policy and governance reforms during his tenure.

    He also served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, where he played significant roles in legal administration and institutional reforms.

    During his time in government, he chaired Nigeria’s Economic Sustainability Committee, led ease-of-doing-business reforms, and advanced social investment programmes, while coordinating key economic policies across multiple sectors nationwide to drive inclusive grow.

  • Nigerian Government partners Airbus, moves to procure emergency helicopters

    Nigerian Government partners Airbus, moves to procure emergency helicopters

    ABUJA, April 7, 2026 (NPA) — The Federal Government has commenced negotiations with European aerospace giant Airbus to procure emergency care helicopters for Nigeria’s proposed National Medical Emergency Management System (NEMSAS).

    The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, disclosed this during a working visit to France, following approval by President Bola Tinubu.

    In a statement issued Monday by the NEMSAS office, Pate explained that discussions with Airbus executives focused on developing an integrated national ground-to-air health emergency management system designed to strengthen rapid response and emergency care delivery nationwide.

    He noted that the initiative is expected to significantly improve medical evacuation services, particularly in hard-to-reach areas, while enhancing coordination between ground and air emergency response systems across Nigeria.

    On the sidelines of the meeting, the minister inspected an Airbus emergency care helicopter at a French government-supported air ambulance facility in Lyon. He emphasized that the proposed system would integrate ambulance services, emergency communication, and aeromedical evacuation into a unified national framework aimed at reducing preventable deaths.

    Prof. Pate stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening emergency preparedness and response as part of broader health sector reforms under the current administration.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria has long struggled with challenges in emergency medical response, including inadequate ambulance services, poor coordination, and delayed referrals between health facilities. These gaps have contributed to avoidable deaths from road traffic accidents, maternal emergencies, and other critical health conditions requiring timely intervention.

    Stakeholders have repeatedly called for the establishment of a coordinated national emergency medical system, including air ambulance services, to bridge access gaps, especially in rural and underserved communities. The partnership with Airbus marks a concrete step toward addressing these long-standing challenges and building a modern emergency response infrastructure for Nigeria.

  • WHO marks World Health Day 2026 with call to ‘Stand with Science’

    WHO marks World Health Day 2026 with call to ‘Stand with Science’

    INTERNATIONAL, April 6, 2026 (NPA) — The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged governments, institutions, and individuals worldwide to recommit to science and collaboration as the foundation for stronger health systems, launching its year‑long campaign under the theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.”

    The campaign coincides with World Health Day 2026 and the anniversary of WHO’s founding on April 7, 1948. WHO highlighted how scientific progress and international cooperation have transformed human health over the past century, citing a 40 percent reduction in maternal mortality since 2000 and a more than 50 percent drop in deaths among children under five.

    “Science is one of humanity’s most powerful tools for protecting and improving health,” said WHO Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Vaccines, penicillin, germ theory, MRI machines and the mapping of the human genome are just some of the achievements that science has delivered that have saved lives and transformed health for billions of people.”

    WHO emphasized that scientific breakthroughs are most effective when widely adopted. Advances such as modern anesthesia, global immunization campaigns, and early screening technologies have democratized access to lifesaving care, even in resource‑limited settings. For example, immunization efforts over the past 50 years have saved more than 154 million children, with the measles vaccine alone preventing over 90 million deaths.

    The organization also pointed to its role in coordinating global responses to health crises, including the rapid identification of the SARS virus in 2003 and the promotion of alcohol‑based hand rubs in 2009, which became critical during the COVID‑19 pandemic. WHO continues to set global standards on air quality and drinking water safety to protect communities from respiratory diseases and cholera.

    In line with this year’s theme, WHO and the G7 Presidency of France will convene a One Health Summit in Lyon from April 5–7, bringing together heads of state, scientists, and community leaders. WHO will also host the Global Forum of its Collaborating Centres from April 7–9, with representatives from over 800 institutions in more than 80 countries.

    “Science transforms uncertainty into understanding and reveals the pathways to protect and heal our communities,” said WHO Chief Scientist Dr. Sylvie Briand. “Today, we must stand together with science so that our collaboration is sustained, supported and enhanced for the better health of generations to come.”

  • WHO warns: Stroke deaths rising fast in Africa, urges immediate lifestyle changes

    WHO warns: Stroke deaths rising fast in Africa, urges immediate lifestyle changes

    INTERNATIONAL, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — The World Health Organisation (WHO) has outlined measures to prevent stroke, a serious medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted by a blockage or bleeding, leading to brain cell death.

    WHO urged people to adopt healthier lifestyles, including eating well, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Stroke, often called a “brain attack,” is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, requiring urgent medical attention to reduce long-term damage.

    There are three main types of stroke: ischemic, caused by blood clots blocking vessels; haemorrhagic, resulting from ruptured blood vessels; and transient ischemic attack (TIA), or “mini-stroke,” which produces temporary symptoms but signals future risk. Symptoms often appear suddenly and can be remembered with the acronym BE FAST: Balance problems, Eye changes, Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time — stressing the need for immediate help. Treatment ranges from clot-busting drugs and surgery to therapies that manage bleeding, while rehabilitation through physical, occupational, and speech therapy is vital for recovery.

    In Africa, stroke has become a growing public health crisis. Incidence rates reach as high as 316 per 100,000 annually, with prevalence up to 1,460 per 100,000. Alarmingly, the three-year fatality rate exceeds 80% in some regions.

    About 70% of global stroke deaths and 87% of stroke-related disability occur in low- and middle-income countries, including many across Africa, where limited access to emergency care and rehabilitation has made stroke one of the fastest-rising causes of death and disability.

  • WHO Chief condemns attacks on Sudan’s health facilities

    WHO Chief condemns attacks on Sudan’s health facilities

    INTERNATIONAL, April 4, 2026 (NPA) — The Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has urged warring parties in Sudan to immediately halt attacks on healthcare facilities, warning that the escalating violence is costing lives and crippling vital services.

    In a statement issued today, Ghebreyesus drew attention to a series of recent assaults on hospitals, health workers, and patients. He described the situation as a “new spate of tragic attacks on health across Sudan,” noting that incidents have included killings, assaults, looting, and damage from air strikes.

    He referenced the April 2 drone strike on Al-Jabalain Teaching Hospital in White Nile State, which killed 10 healthcare workers and injured 22 others. A day earlier, another strike on the central medical warehouse in Rabak injured three people, including a pharmacist, and left unexploded ordnance inside the facility.

    On the same day, the Family Hospital in Al-Daein, East Darfur, was looted, with patients and staff assaulted and expelled. The hospital is located just blocks from Al-Daein Teaching Hospital, which was recently destroyed in a strike that killed at least 70 people, including patients and health workers.

    Similar violence was reported on March 25 in Al-Kurmuk, Blue Nile State, where a hospital was looted, equipment destroyed, and staff and patients forced out. One health worker was critically injured.

    “The continued attacks on health care facilities, health workers and patients who depend on them are unacceptable. This worrying pattern reveals a level of disregard for human life that no responsible actor can tolerate,” Ghebreyesus warned.

    The WHO chief stressed that protecting healthcare is a fundamental obligation under international humanitarian law and called for accountability for those responsible.

  • Gloria Cancer Foundation urges FG to intensify colorectal cancer awareness

    Gloria Cancer Foundation urges FG to intensify colorectal cancer awareness

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — The Gloria Cancer Foundation has called on the Federal Government to step up awareness campaigns on colorectal cancer, warning that cases have tripled in Nigeria over the past four decades.

    Speaking during a hiking event tagged “Blue Hat Bow Tie” to mark Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Founder Mrs Gloria Okwu expressed concern that the disease has become one of the top five cancers in Nigeria, with many patients presenting late due to low awareness and frequent misdiagnosis.

    “Colorectal cancer has tripled in incidence over the last 40 years and is now among the top five cancers in Nigeria. We are worried because many people still present late as a result of misdiagnosis,” she said.

    She explained that the outreach aimed to educate both young and old on risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early medical consultation. According to her, increased awareness would encourage early detection, reduce stigma, and improve patient support.

    Okwu urged the Federal Government to establish more cancer treatment centres, upgrade existing facilities, and improve welfare for oncologists to curb brain drain in the health sector. She also appealed to well-meaning Nigerians to support patients, noting that such assistance could aid early detection and better management.

    Mrs Maimurna Barau, Founder and CEO of Maimurna Hope Foundation for Cancer and Ostomy Care, and herself a colorectal cancer survivor, stressed the importance of recognising warning signs such as blood in stool, persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal swelling. She advised individuals experiencing such symptoms to seek prompt medical attention, noting that “early detection and timely treatment save lives and reduce emotional and financial burden on families.”

    The event was supported by the Global Colon Cancer Association, Okapi Children Cancer Foundation, and THA Outdoor Tribe.

    According to World Health Organisation data, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer globally, with 1.9 million new cases recorded in 2022. Projections indicate a significant rise in incidence and mortality by 2040, with younger populations increasingly affected due to lifestyle and environmental factors.

    In Nigeria and across Africa, cases are steadily rising, though incidence remains lower than in developed regions. Late diagnosis, limited screening, and misdiagnosis remain major challenges.

    (NAN)

  • Lagos Police Command marks 2026 national police day with community outreach, medical outreach

    Lagos Police Command marks 2026 national police day with community outreach, medical outreach

    LAGOS, NIGERIA, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — The Lagos State Police Command will join the rest of the country to mark the 2026 National Police Day. According to a statement released on Monday, activities commenced with sanitation exercises across all Area Commands, underscoring that service to the community goes beyond law enforcement and extends to promoting a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment for residents.

    As part of the celebration, a medical outreach will be held at Computer Village, Ikeja, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The program will feature free medical check‑ups and essential health services, including health talks, counselling, blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, Hepatitis B and C screenings, eye examinations, retroviral screening, and free drug administration. All services will be provided at no cost, reflecting the Command’s commitment to public health and community well‑being.

    Beyond the immediate activities, the National Police Day celebration serves as a vital platform to strengthen trust between the police and the public. It highlights the role of the police not only as enforcers of law but also as partners in community development, fostering goodwill, cooperation, and a shared sense of responsibility for safety and progress.

  • Kenya vaccinates over 6,000 cows in Sabatia Sub-County

    Kenya vaccinates over 6,000 cows in Sabatia Sub-County

    AFRICA (Agency Report/Maureen Imbayi) — 28 March 2026 — More than 6,000 cows, representing over 20 per cent of the livestock population in Sabatia Sub-County, have been vaccinated against Foot and Mouth Disease under the ongoing e-Voucher vaccination programme.

    Speaking during a Heads of Departments meeting at the DCC’s boardroom, Sub-County Agriculture Officer (SCAO) Robert Anyolo said the target is to vaccinate about 30,000 cows by the end of the exercise.

    Anyolo noted that the programme initially faced challenges due to the time-consuming door-to-door visits required to identify and vaccinate animals. However, with the support of chiefs and their assistants, farmers are now being mobilised to bring their cows to central locations for identification and vaccination.

    “Just like fingerprints are used to identify people, cows are identified by their muzzles, which are unique to each animal,” Anyolo explained. He encouraged farmers to present all their cows for identification and vaccination, stressing that the process would also help reduce theft by making it easier to track animals.

    He added that while the cost of vaccinating one cow is Sh110, farmers are required to pay only Sh50, with the government covering the balance.

    Anyolo further highlighted that the programme is part of a nationwide effort to manage livestock diseases, improve breeding and feeding practices, and boost both the quality and quantity of yields.

    He also advised farmers to plant crop-friendly trees such as grevillea, fruit trees, and fodder to support sustainable agriculture.

  • Ghana advises citizens travelling to Senegal on new health directive

    Ghana advises citizens travelling to Senegal on new health directive

    AFRICA (NPA) — 26 March 2026 — The Republic of Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an advisory to Ghanaians planning to travel to Senegal, urging them to comply with new health directives introduced by the West African country.

    According to the Ghanaian authorities, Senegal has recommended vaccination against certain communicable diseases, notably yellow fever, diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus (DPT), measles, and hepatitis A and B, as part of measures to safeguard travellers’ health and safety.

    The advisory clarified, however, that presentation of vaccination certificates for these diseases is not mandatory for entry into Senegalese territory.

    The statement released on Thursday reads in part: “Ghanaian travellers are, nonetheless, encouraged to consult healthcare providers for their routine vaccinations prior to travel, in order to safeguard their health while abroad.”

    It further stressed that the Ministry remains committed to providing timely information to ensure the safety, welfare, and well-being of Ghanaian citizens travelling outside the country.

  • Nigeria approves ₦32.8bn for primary healthcare in Q1 2026

    Nigeria approves ₦32.8bn for primary healthcare in Q1 2026

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 26 March 2026 — The Federal Government has approved the disbursement of ₦32.8 billion under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) for the first quarter of 2026, advancing BHCPF 2.0 to strengthen primary healthcare, improve maternal and child health, and expand access to essential services nationwide.

    The decision was taken at the Q1 2026 meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC), which reviewed reforms to improve financing, coordination, and frontline results. Gateway agencies — NHIA, NPHCDA, and NCDC — presented updates, while ALGON and civil society groups shared field-level insights.

    A key focus was the accelerated rollout of BHCPF 2.0 under the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), aligning financing and accountability with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII). Priority interventions include MAMII (reducing maternal and newborn deaths), HOPE PHC (boosting service readiness and workforce capacity), and the National Health Fellows Programme (strengthening leadership and accountability).

    The Committee also reviewed progress on the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) and broader maternal and child health indicators. Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, stressed that BHCPF 2.0 ensures resources translate into real improvements at the primary care level. Minister of State, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, added that outcomes must be visible to Nigerians through safer deliveries and stronger emergency response.

    Resolutions adopted include structured private sector engagement, revised emergency transport tariffs, faster programme reviews, and reinforced quality assurance. The Ministry urged states, partners, and the private sector to align with BHCPF 2.0 priorities, while encouraging Nigerians to utilise primary healthcare services as access expands nationwide.