Month: July 2024

By Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Aliyu

On July 10, 2023, I received my deployment letter for the mandatory one-year national youth service in Oyo State. The orientation exercise was scheduled to start on July 12, which coincided with my induction ceremony into the Veterinary Profession. Unfortunately, I couldn’t report to camp that day.

I began my journey from Sokoto (Seat of Caliphate) to Oyo State (Pacesetter State) on July 13 and arrived at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin Local Government on July 14. After completing my registration, I resumed camp activities the next day. My camp experience was unforgettable; despite the stress, I learned a lot, made many friends, and broadened my horizons in all aspects of life.

On August 1st, we had our passing-out parade, and I was posted to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) in Ibadan North Local Government. Later, I was reposted to Clucky Livestock Farms Limited, a reputable organization in Ido Local Government, Ibadan South zone.

While travelling from the University of Ibadan to the Oyo State Secretariat for the World Rabies Day procession, organized by the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA, Oyo State Chapter), I received a call from someone with an American accent requesting a meeting. He offered a deal, which I accepted, and we scheduled a visit to the site.

The following day, I visited Clucky Farms Limited, a world-class poultry farm and chicken processing plant with a marketing unit. The company provides conducive accommodation, a lovely environment, growth opportunities, freedom of religion, staff equality, and a dedicated team committed to transforming the livestock industry and achieving food security.

The Managing Director/Chairman, Mr. Olawale Adeyemo Adewale, is a humble, generous, and approachable leader who has taught me valuable skills, including leadership and decision-making. He impressed me with his punctuality, arriving 15 minutes before our meeting time.

On Saturday, October 7, he picked me up from my initial residence at Ikolaba and drove me to my new accommodation at Clucky in his SUV. This gesture of humility from the Managing Director/Chairman of the company exemplifies his generosity and approachability. He is an amiable leader with a strong sense of equality, sincerity, dedication, and a knack for solving complex problems. He is highly resourceful and eager to learn.

Working with him has given me life-changing opportunities and skills, including leadership and decision-making. I consider myself the luckiest NYSC member in Oyo State, a sentiment shared by my friends and colleagues who have visited me. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Olawale and the entire Clucky Family for making my stay an incredible experience.

In addition to my primary assignment, I participated in the Community Development Service (CDS) at the Local Government level in the Freedom of Information and Awareness (FOIA) syndicate. I served under Mrs Ajijola Taiwo Joan, a devout and iconic Local Government Inspector (LGI). Her departing words, “Don’t ever allow anybody to shed tears because of you,” continue to guide me.

I appreciate my State Coordinator, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche (Mr. Wisdom), whose speech inspired me to write and reflect. My sincere thanks also go to Mrs. Bola Obarinde, the Local Government Inspector (LGI) of Ibadan North 1, the Zonal Inspector of Ibadan North zone, and the entire NYSC community in Oyo State.

I extend my gratitude to my family, the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) Oyo State Chapter, MCAN Family, MARD Oyo State, and everyone who made my service year prosperous and memorable. Serving in Oyo State was a distinct and rewarding experience.

Ibrahim Hassan Aliyu writes from Sokoto.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited declared a state of emergency on oil production.

This was a move towards increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production and growing its reserves.

Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, disclosed this in a keynote address at the opening of the 23rd edition of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition Week in Abuja, on Tuesday.

“We have decided to stop the debate. We have declared war on the challenges affecting our crude oil production. War means war. We have the right tools. We know what to fight. We know what we have to do at the level of assets. We have engaged our partners. And we will work together to improve the situation,” Kyari stated.

Nigeria’s absurd crude supply crisis and loses N636bn revenue as oil production dips NNPC withdraws suit against ExxonMobil, Seplat $1.28bn deal.

According to him, a detailed analysis of assets revealed that Nigeria could conveniently produce two million barrels of crude oil per day without deploying new rigs.

Still, the major impediment to achieving this is the inability of players to act in a timely manner.

He added that the “war” will help NNPCL and its partners to speedily clear all identified obstacles to effective and efficient production, such as delays in procurement processes, which have become a challenge in the industry.

By Anas Abbas

In a dramatic turnaround, operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have killed two kidnappers and freed four captives, including a Nigerian and three Indian nationals, in a daring operation.

The rescue mission occurred on Sunday night along the Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode expressway, near Delabo Junction, after a driver was shot and travellers kidnapped by gunmen.

Police Commissioner Abiodun Alamutu briefed reporters at the state headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, saying the anti-kidnapping squad traced the hoodlums to a bush hideout, where a fierce gun battle ensued.

“The suspects engaged our men, but our superior firepower led to the elimination of two kidnappers while others fled with injuries,” Alamutu said.

The police recovered 109 rounds of ammunition, five AK-47 rifles, eight AK-47 magazines, and two cell phones from the suspects.

The rescued hostages were reunited with their families, unharmed. The police commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, saying, “We will not tolerate criminality in Ogun State.”

This operation marks a significant victory in the fight against kidnapping and crime in the state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George will return to the NPFL with Rivers United.

Reports say Finidi met with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Tuesday to discuss his impending appointment, and he will shortly be presented as the head coach of the Port Harcourt outfit.

Long-serving coach Stanley Eguma was fired during the past season, and Evans Ogenyi led the team for the remainder of the campaign.

Former Ajax winger Finidi led Enyimba to win the NPFL championship the previous season before he was appointed Super Eagles coach in May.

He quit his Super Eagles post after the NFF appointed a foreign coach to be his boss following a 1-1 home draw with South Africa and a shock loss to Benin in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

By Mujahid Nasir Hussain

Diabetes Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes and encouraging prevention and management strategies to support those living with the condition globally. As the world comes together for Diabetes Week 2024, observed from June 10th to 16th, communities, healthcare professionals, and organizations united in a series of events and campaigns to foster a deeper awareness and a proactive approach towards combating the condition.

According to the 2024 International Diabetes Federation (IDF) report, diabetes is a significant and growing global health issue affecting diverse regions and populations. Approximately 537 million adults (20-79 years) worldwide are living with diabetes, with this number expected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. One of the major concerns regarding this increase is that Nigeria is among the countries facing such a significant rise, with current estimates showing millions affected and a substantial proportion of cases undiagnosed. Thus, there is a need for improved diabetes education, prevention programs, and accessible treatment options to combat this growing health crisis.

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels. This occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Persistent high blood glucose can damage various organs and systems, leading to significant health complications. Although there are many forms of diabetes, according to numerous literature reports, there are generally three. Viz: Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and Gestational diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This destruction leads to little or no insulin production, crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy, either through injections or an insulin pump, to manage their blood glucose levels. This type of diabetes often manifests in childhood or adolescence but can occur at any age. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, and blurred vision.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90-95% of all diabetes cases. It occurs when the body becomes insulin resistant, or the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. This condition is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. Risk factors also include age, family history, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Symptoms are similar to Type 1 diabetes but may develop more slowly, making early detection and management crucial. Lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin therapy are used to manage Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the extra needs of pregnancy. This condition typically resolves after childbirth but increases the mother’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes can lead to complications such as high birth weight, preterm birth, and increased risk of cesarean delivery. Managing gestational diabetes involves a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and monitoring blood sugar levels. In some cases, insulin therapy may be needed.

Diabetes Complications

Unmanaged diabetes can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications, emphasizing the importance of effective management. These complications include:

Cardiovascular Disease: People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing heart disease and stroke due to damaged blood vessels and nerves.

Neuropathy: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, especially in the legs and feet, leading to pain, tingling, and even loss of sensation. Severe cases can result in foot ulcers and amputations.

Nephropathy: Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease, which can progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Retinopathy: High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems and even blindness.

Skin Conditions: Diabetes can make individuals more prone to bacterial and fungal infections and other skin disorders.

Treatment Strategies for Diabetes

Effective diabetes management requires a multi-faceted approach that includes lifestyle changes, medication, regular monitoring, and education & support.

Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing intake of processed foods and sugary beverages. Regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, is essential to help maintain a healthy weight and improve insulin sensitivity.

Medication: Treatment depends on the type of diabetes. For Type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential. For Type 2 diabetes, oral medications like metformin or other hypoglycemics may be prescribed, and in some cases, insulin may be required.

Monitoring: Regular blood glucose monitoring ensures levels remain within the target range. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) provide real-time data, allowing for better management and adjustment of treatment plans.

Education and Support: Diabetes education programs help individuals understand their condition, make informed decisions about their care, and provide emotional support. Support groups offer a platform to share experiences and coping strategies.

Mujahid Nasir Hussain is an undergraduate prize awardee for Physiology 2023, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. He wrote via mujahidhnasir@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

An Osun State High Court sitting in Ede has convicted and sentenced five men to death by hanging for the kidnap and murder of Alhaji Ibrahim Adamu, a Fulani man.

The convicts, Ibrahim Issa, Lateef Bello, Abdul Ramon Soliu, Bello Ibrahim, and Abudu Mumini Jolaanobi Saheed – were arraigned on four charges, including conspiracy to kidnap and murder.

In her judgement, Justice Kudirat Akano found the convicts guilty on all four counts and sentenced them to death by hanging.

The prosecuting counsel, Faremi Moses, presented evidence that the five men kidnapped Alhaji Ibrahim Adamu on April 17, 2018, around 7:45 pm from his home in Owode-Ede, Ede North Local Government Area, Osun State.

Adamu was abducted in his Toyota Corolla and subsequently killed after his family paid a ransom of N3 million.

Faremi called three witnesses, including the investigating police officer, Mr Ganiyu Taofeek, who submitted several exhibits, such as extrajudicial statements and a mask recovered at the scene.

Counsel to the convicts, Bola Ige, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the accusation beyond a reasonable doubt.

Justice Akano ruled, “The prosecution has proved beyond a reasonable doubt that the convicts committed the offences. They are hereby sentenced to death by hanging.

“The convicts were led out of the courtroom in handcuffs, sobbing and begging for mercy.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Ibrahim Lawan, the suspended Director of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Yobe’s Nangere Local Government, has confessed to diverting Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) supplements intended to treat severe malnutrition in children.

The PHC board had suspended Lawan indefinitely and established a five-member committee to investigate the matter.

Lawan admitted to tampering with the supplements along with some staff members, acknowledging that his actions were wrong.”I tampered with some of the therapeutic food supplements, but the quantity is not as much as they alleged,” Lawan admitted in an interview.

He added, “However, I take responsibility for all that happened since I was the leader at the time.”

Lawan claimed that the quantity of supplements diverted was not as much as alleged (120 cartons), but took responsibility for the actions.

He appealed for leniency, citing cooperation with the investigation.”I am appealing to the state government to temper justice with mercy since I have cooperated and made the investigation easier for them,” he said.

The RUTF supplements are highly nutritious food packages used to treat severe and acute malnutrition in children.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malnutrition is a significant public health problem in Nigeria, with approximately 2 million children under the age of five suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

The investigation committee will also recommend strategies to ensure accountability in the distribution of medical consumables.

The Yobe state government has named Ibrahim Disa as the acting director of the PHC in Nangere pending the outcome of the investigation.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The abductors of Hajiya Hauwa’u Adamu, mother of famous Hausa musician Dauda Adamu (Rarara), have demanded a ransom of N900m for her release.

The abductors initially demanded N1bn but reduced the amount after a brief discussion with a family member.

According to a source close to the family, the abductors called the family with a phone they stole during the abduction and confirmed that Hajiya is in good condition.

The family is still waiting for the abductors’ call to continue with the negotiation.

The abduction was a well-coordinated operation, with the bandits using a photograph of Hajiya to identify her.

They woke up all the women in the bedroom and compared their faces to the photograph before taking Hajiya away.

The entire village of Kahutu is in shock over the kidnapping, as Hajiya is known for her generosity and kindness to many families in the village.

The family is still waiting for the abductors’ call to continue with the negotiation.

No arrests have been made, and the family is still waiting for the abductors’ next move.

The incident has left the community in shock and fear, with many calling for the safe release of Hajiya.

 By Anwar Usman 

The troops of the Nigerian Army killed a kidnap kingpin and arrested two other notorious terrorists during multiple raids of IPOB hideouts in the state, the army said in a statement on their X account formally known as twitter on Monday. 

One of the operations was conducted at a suspected IPOB hideout in Ezeinyen Okwe Umucheke, a community in Onuimo Local Government Area of the state.

The operation was targeted at the suspected IPOB Bigwig identified as Chinemerem, popularly known as “Bam Bam” in the community. 

“The operation led to the neutralisation of Chinemerem, as he attempted to reach for his weapon and the arrest of several of his accomplices,” the army said on their X handle. 

“A substantial amount of weapons, ammunition, and IPOB/ESN equipment were seized, and the hideout was subsequently destroyed.” 

The statement said the troops subsequently intercepted other suspected IPOB/ESN members at another hideout in Ama Hausa in Okigwe Local Government Area of the state. 

Tyey added that, “Overpowered in the ensuing shootout, the (suspected) terrorists were forced to flee in unruliness, abandoning a collection of ammunition and motorcycles”. 

Seventy-two rounds of 7.62 x 51mm NATO ammunition, four rounds of 7.62 mm (special), three rounds of 5.56mm, one FN rifle, a pair of military desert boots and one green beret were recovered from the hoodlums, according to the army. 

Though the army did not identify the security operatives who took part in the operations, it said the operations were conducted in collaboration with other security agencies. 

A similar operation was conducted in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, which targeted two other notorious Bigwigs – Izuchukwu Emejuru, otherwise known as “Kingkong,” and Chibuzor Chikwe, also known as ‘’Onyema.” 

During the operation, some valuables reportedly belonging to Ugonna Iriele, the traditional ruler of Ogberuru in the Orlu Council Area, were recovered by the troops. 

Furthermore, “The raid resulted in the arrest of these suspects and the confiscation of a variety of weapons, including a Semi-automatic pump-action gun, a locally made gun, and a pistol,” it said. 

IPOB, a group seeking the independent state of Biafra to be carved out of the South-East and some parts of south-south, Nigeria, has been linked to the deadly attacks in the regions.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu of Kano State High Court has, on Tuesday, adjourned until July 4, hearing an application in the ongoing Kano Emirship tussle case. 

The Attorney General of Kano State, Speaker Kano State House of Assembly and Kano State House of Assembly, through their counsel Ibrahim Isah Wangida Esq, filed a motion ex parte dated May 27 seeking an order restraining court the 15th emir, Aminu Ado-Bayero, and four other dethroned emirs of Bichi, Rano, Gaya and Karaye from parading themselves as traditional rulers. 

The respondents are Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero, Bichi Emir; Dr Ibrahim Abubakar ll, Emir of Karaye; Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Inuwa, Emir of Rano and Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim-Gaya, emir of Gaya. 

Others are the Inspector-General of Police, Director of the State Security Service, Nigeria Security and civil defence and Nigeria army. 

During the hearing on Tuesday on all pending applications, Counsel to the applicants, Mr Eyitayo Fatogun SAN, informed the court that he was served with five processes on July 1, at about 6:30 p. m by the first respondent, adding that the responses have been filed accordingly. 

“We urge the court to give us 30 minutes to stand down to enable us to serve the respondent with our responses.” Counsel to Aminu Ado Bayero, Abdul Muhammed SAN, opposed the 30 minutes stand down and sought for an adjournment to enable him reply and file all their applications. 

The court then adjourned the matter to July 4, for hearing of all pending applications and originating motion. 

The court had on May 27, granted an order of interim injunction restraining the 1st 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th respondents by themselves, servants, privies, from parading themselves as Emirs in the interest of peace in Kano. 

The State House of Assembly on May 23, dissolved all the four newly created Emirate council’s in the state and Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf, reappointed Lamido Sanusi, as the Emir of Kano.