Health

By Muhsin Ibrahim

I maintain that Malam Ibrahim Khalil is a towering figure in the realm of Islamic scholarship. His prominence predates my own existence, and I have no doubt that his legacy will endure for many years to come. I wish him and his family well.

However, Malam’s recent fatwas via Freedom Radio have been controversial. Indeed, he is not new to controversies, but not to this extent or at any time that I can recall.

While rounding up the debate on bleaching, I woke up to yet another one on breast and buttock augmentation—via drugs and surgeries. The first red flag in that short clip is how he mentioned those body parts without euphemism. This is quite embarrassing.

I am not a medical doctor. However, I read and watch a lot of documentaries and news. Thus, I am fairly informed about the dangers of what Malam “advocates.” Please, go to YouTube and search for “Botched plastic surgery.” You will see more videos than you can watch.

I respectfully call on Malam to ponder the broader implications of what he talks about. As I said before, clerics are VIPs. We not only respect them but also revere them. Some people take their words as gospel. So, they should not churn out fatwas “anyhow.”

Dear ladies, do not disfigure—or even kill—yourselves for a man. You will never satisfy him 100%. Perfection is God’s attribute.

No matter how sexy (you think) you are, two things will happen. First, nothing stays the same. Second, another woman is definitely sexier. Even if she is not, men are naturally inclined to admire and even desire other women besides their partners. So, it’s not your “perfect” body that holds him tight. It’s the love; it’s the faith; it’s the commitment to the union.

May we be guided, ameen.

Muhsin Ibrahim writes from Cologne, Germany.

By Aishat M. Abisola

Over the years, Nigeria has dealt with a profound crisis plaguing its healthcare system, exacerbated by the alarming rate of brain drain among its highly skilled medical professionals. Nigeria’s health sector is precarious as doctors, nurses, and other essential healthcare personnel depart for greener pastures abroad.

A closer look reveals a critical factor fueling brain drain, harming our health sector. The consequences of this phenomenon are dire. It has led to a shortage of healthcare professionals, compromising the overall quality of healthcare services in Nigeria.

One key reason for the brain drain in the Nigerian health sector is chronic underfunding, which results in dilapidated infrastructure and insufficient resources. Healthcare facilities in the country also suffer from a lack of modern equipment, outdated technology, and inadequate supplies.

Motivated by their desire to provide high-quality care, healthcare professionals flee to countries with well-maintained and adequately resourced healthcare infrastructure.

Brain drain can also be linked to the frustration healthcare professionals experience due to a lack of basic tools and resources necessary for their work. Insufficient funding for maintaining and upgrading healthcare facilities creates an environment that fails to attract and retain skilled professionals.

Funding issues in the Nigerian health sector have led to inadequate remuneration and poor working conditions for healthcare professionals. Doctors and nurses are often given meagre salaries, delayed payments, and a lack of essential benefits despite their importance in society.

The financial strain, coupled with challenging working conditions, can serve as a powerful motivator for them to seek opportunities abroad, where they can be better compensated and work in more conducive environments.

Several organisations in Nigeria have lamented funding issues and poor remuneration of our healthcare personnel. The Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) have organised strikes and issued ultimatums to the federal government to improve the nation’s health sector.

Last year, NARD asked the federal government to declare a state of emergency for the health sector. The NMA also spoke out against the federal government’s decision to implement a no-work, no-pay plan in response to an indefinite strike by NARD.

The lack of funding allocated to training and development programs within the Nigerian health sector also contributes to the brain drain crisis. Healthcare professionals want to seek continuous learning opportunities and career advancement. However, insufficient funds for training limit their growth within the country.

The scarcity of adequate professional development investments harms local talent retention. It encourages healthcare professionals to pursue opportunities abroad, where they can further their education and skill sets.

A united effort is needed to address funding challenges and combat brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector. Boosting investments in healthcare can create an environment that will retain and lure back skilled professionals. The federal and state governments can implement some of these strategies to mitigate the impact of brain drain:

Remuneration Improvements: Increase healthcare professionals’ salaries and benefits to make them more competitive on an international scale. Ensure timely salary payments address concerns about delayed payments, a common issue among healthcare workers.

Enhanced Working Conditions: Allocate sufficient funds to improve healthcare facilities, ensuring modern and well-maintained conditions, comfortable accommodations, and safe working environments—investment in technology and equipment to ensure that healthcare professionals have access to state-of-the-art tools and resources.

Investment in Training and Development: Funds should be allocated for continuous professional development programs to enhance the skills of healthcare professionals.
Establish partnerships with educational institutions to provide healthcare workers with ongoing training and learning opportunities.

Research and Innovation Grants: Create funding for local medical research and innovations to attract professionals interested in making healthcare advancements. Provide research grants to healthcare professionals, encouraging them to stay in Nigeria while pursuing groundbreaking research.

Infrastructure Development: Allocate funds for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of healthcare infrastructures (hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities). Equip healthcare facilities with modern technology and the resources to provide quality patient care.

Telemedicine and E-Health Initiatives: Allocate funds for telemedicine and e-health initiatives to enhance the accessibility and appeal of healthcare services to professionals. Invest in technology infrastructure to support telehealth services, reducing the need for healthcare workers to relocate physically.

Community Engagement and Support: Fund community programs to raise awareness about the importance of healthcare professionals in local communities. Establish support networks and incentives for healthcare professionals, including housing assistance, transportation, and other benefits.

Long-Term Strategic Planning: Implement and develop long-term plans for the healthcare sector, ensuring sustained and increased funding over time. Regularly assess funding needs and adjust budget allocations to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

Last line

Undeniably, the brain drain crisis in Nigeria’s health sector is strongly linked to constant funding challenges over the years. Concrete efforts and strategic investments in the healthcare system are essential to reverse this trend.

Adequate funding can improve infrastructure, enhance working conditions, and provide opportunities for professional growth, ultimately stemming the tide of skilled professionals leaving the country.

By addressing the root causes of brain drain through increased funding, Nigeria can build a more resilient and sustainable healthcare sector that meets the needs of its population.

Aishat M. Abisola is an NYSC member serving with PRNigeria Centre Abuja.

By Ibrahim Adamu Ingawa

In the vast expanse of Nigeria’s Katsina State, beneath the scorching sun and amidst the sporadic rains, a silent predator lurks, imperiling the health and well-being of its inhabitants. Climate change, though often overlooked, poses a formidable threat to public health in Katsina State, catalyzing the emergence and spread of infectious diseases at an alarming rate.

In recent years, the fingerprints of climate change have become increasingly evident, leaving behind a trail of devastation in its wake. From the bustling streets of Dutsin-Ma to the tranquil valleys of Bakori, the impacts of rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns are unmistakable, reshaping the landscape of disease transmission in profound ways.

Take, for instance, the surge in malaria cases that swept through Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area in 2019. Heavy rainfall and flooding provided the perfect breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, resulting in over 500 confirmed cases within a month. Similarly, the parched earth of Kankia Town bore witness to a cholera outbreak in 2017, fueled by drought conditions and inadequate sanitation infrastructure, claiming the lives of several hundred individuals.

But the toll of climate change extends beyond the realm of vector-borne diseases, reaching deep into the fabric of public health in Katsina State. The specter of Lassa fever loomed large over Bakori Local Government Area in 2016, as changing climatic conditions facilitated the spread of this deadly virus, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. Meanwhile, in Funtua, rising temperatures and increased mosquito activity paved the way for a dengue fever outbreak in 2015, further exacerbating the burden of disease in the region.

Yet, perhaps the most poignant manifestation of climate change’s impact on public health lies in the floods that ravaged Jibia in 2018. As torrential rains inundated the town, turning streets into rivers and homes into islands, a silent menace took root. Stagnant floodwaters became breeding grounds for disease vectors, leading to a surge in malaria cases and exacerbating the plight of already vulnerable communities.

In addition to the visible impacts on infectious disease outbreaks, climate change is also facilitating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Katsina State, thereby exacerbating public health challenges. The rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns create favorable conditions for the proliferation of resistant bacteria, as well as the emergence of new strains which are resistant to the drugs that are meant to kill them. Increased use of antimicrobial agents in response to climate-related infectious disease outbreaks further contributes to the selection pressure driving AMR. This alarming synergy between climate change and AMR underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address both phenomena and safeguard the health of Katsina State’s population.

Despite the magnitude of these challenges, hope remains on the horizon. Armed with knowledge and skills I acquired in addressing the most pressing issues of public health over the past few years, I am committed to leveraging my expertise to develop innovative interventions aimed at tackling the consequences of climate change on infectious disease outbreaks in Katsina State. From outbreak preparedness and prevention to the implementation of robust control mechanisms, I am zealous in my determination to contribute in safeguarding the health and well-being of my fellow citizens at the Home of Hospitality. But my journey has not been without its obstacles.

Since my return from the United Kingdom after my internship at the world-leading genomics research institute (the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge), there has been interference from certain elements, which has impeded my ability to implement meaningful change. Yet, in the face of adversity, my resolve remains unshaken, fueled by a burning desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of those most affected by the ravages of climate change in my dear State.

The impacts of climate change on infectious disease outbreaks represent just one facet of the multifaceted challenges confronting the public health milieu of my beloved State. I remain resolute in my commitment to driving forward the positive transformation of Katsina State’s public health sector. Anticipating the opportunity to deploy my skills and expertise, I stand ready and poised to seize it at any moment.

As I look towards the future, I am filled with optimism, knowing that together, we can overcome the challenges posed by climate change on ever-increasing infectious disease outbreak and forge a path towards a healthier, more resilient Katsina State. I believe that through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering determination, we can turn the tide against this invisible threat and pave the way for a brighter, healthier tomorrow.

Ibrahim Adamu (Ingawa) writes from Katsina State. He’s a
Project Grantee at The Foundation to Prevent Antibiotic Resistance (Sweden). He can be reached via ibrahimassalafee@gmail.com/ +2348134386907

By Muhammad Muzdaleefa

The groundbreaking ceremony for the AMA Medical Manufacturing OSD Plant marks a turning point for the Nigerian medical industry.

The new plant, which will produce oral solid dosage (OSD) medications, will not only boost the local economy but also improve access to high-quality healthcare for the Nigerian people.

It is a testament to the company’s commitment to investing in the future of healthcare in Nigeria.

The ceremony was conducted by the Director General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, and attended by a number of dignitaries, including the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Vice President’s representative, Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli among others.

A number of medical experts from UK, US, Germany and representatives from numerous health organizations were also in attendance, including the ambassador of Indonesia in Nigeria, partners from Korea, and representatives from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

Also, a number of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed during the ceremony, reflecting the commitment of various stakeholders to supporting the new plant and its mission to improve healthcare in Nigeria.

The event was a clear sign of the importance of the new plant to the future of healthcare in the country. It is imperative to note that prior to the establishment of the AMA Medical Manufacturing plant, there is virtually no medical companies operating in northern Nigeria.

This meant that many people in the region had limited access to high-quality, affordable medical products and services.

The AMA Medical Manufacturing plant aims to address this issue by providing a reliable source of quality medical products for the people of northern Nigeria.

In addition, the plant’s location in Kaduna State, which is central to the region, makes it accessible to a large population and well-positioned to serve as a hub for medical products distribution.

The founder of AMA Medical Manufacturing, Alhaji Musa Bello Abdullahi, chose Kaduna as the location for the new plant because of its strategic location and rich history.

Kaduna is a major transportation hub, with good road, rail, and air links, making it easy to get medical products from the plant to people across the region.

In addition, Kaduna has a long history as a center of industry and commerce, and the founder hopes that the plant will help to revitalize the local economy.

During her address, the DG of the WTO stated that she is pleased to see the establishment of the AMA Medical Manufacturing plant in Kaduna, and believes that it has the potential to become a global leader in medical equipment production.

She has expressed her commitment to providing the company with the necessary support and assistance to help it achieve this goal.

This includes helping the company to access international markets and comply with international standards.

The Minister of Health has also voiced the federal government’s support for the AMA Medical Manufacturing plant, stating that the government is committed to assisting the company in any way possible.

This includes providing regulatory and policy support, as well as assistance with accessing capital and markets. The Minister has expressed confidence that the plant will help to address some of the healthcare challenges facing Nigeria, and will contribute to the overall development of the country.

The establishment of the AMA Medical Manufacturing plant in Kaduna is a significant development for both the state and Nigeria as a whole.

The company has the support of both the federal government and the WTO, and has the potential to become a global leader in the medical equipment industry.

With the right support and commitment, the plant can play a major role in improving healthcare in Nigeria and making the country a more competitive player in the global economy.

The future of medical equipment manufacturing in Nigeria looks bright, thanks to the efforts of AMA Medical Manufacturing.

Muhammad Muzdaleefa writes from Kaduna and can be reached via mohammedadamu736@gmail.

By Aisha Musa Auyo 

Sequel to the recent loss of lives during the heated match between Nigeria and South Africa in the recently concluded 2023 AFCON, it is pertinent to begin sensitizing the public on the effects of anxiety, cardiac, and related attacks.

To avoid anxiety or a heart attack during sports or anything that excites you, try this visualization a few hours before the game or event.

…Expect the worst in this case, even if you don’t want to. Imagine the worst-case scenario a few times in your mind, and no matter how anxious your body becomes, let it be. Don’t resist it, and it will go away…

Anxiety is nothing but the manifestation of your deepest fears, and since you keep avoiding the worst-case scenarios, anxiety keeps building up. But if you have imagined and experienced it, the reality will not come as a shock. It will be something you have already envisioned. Whether the game ends in your favor or not, you will have control over how your body reacts to the outcome.

This is the explanation behind the fight-or-flight response, which is an automatic physiological reaction to an event that is perceived as stressful or frightening. The perception of a threat activates the sympathetic nervous system and triggers an acute stress response that prepares the body to fight or flee.

Sports-related anxiety and heart attacks can be influenced by various factors, and addressing them requires a multifaceted approach. Since this issue will continue to arise even after the AFCON, it would be beneficial to highlight the long-term approaches.

1. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity not only improves cardiovascular health but also aids in stress management. Incorporating both aerobic and strength training exercises can contribute to overall well-being.

2. Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco use are crucial components of preventing heart-related problems.

3. Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation. Managing stress levels is vital for overall mental and physical health.

Regular Health Checkups: Periodic health checkups help monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health. Early detection of potential issues allows for timely intervention.

5. Know Your Limits: Recognize your personal physical limitations and avoid pushing yourself too hard during sports activities. Gradual progression in intensity is essential to prevent sudden stress on the cardiovascular system.

6. Medical Consultation: If individuals have preexisting health conditions or concerns, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional before engaging in strenuous physical activities, including sports events.

7. Fan Engagement Awareness: For spectators, emotional involvement during sports events can lead to heightened stress levels. Being aware of one’s emotional reactions and finding healthy ways to manage them are essential.

8. Emergency Preparedness: Knowledge of basic first aid and access to medical facilities during sports events are critical in case of emergencies.

9. Community Awareness: Raising awareness within communities about the risks associated with sports-related stress and the importance of preventive measures can contribute to a healthier sports culture.

10. Education: Providing education on the signs of heart attacks and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention can empower individuals to respond effectively in emergencies.

By addressing these aspects, individuals can reduce the risk of sports-related anxiety and heart attacks, thus promoting a safer and more enjoyable sports experience.

To reduce sports-related anxiety and potential health risks, individuals should prioritize regular exercise, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and be aware of their physical limitations. Seeking medical advice and monitoring stress levels can also contribute to overall well-being.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctoral researcher in Educational Psychology, a mother of three, a homemaker, caterer, and parenting/relationship coach. She can be contacted via aishamuauyo@gmail.com.

By Aishat M. Abisola

Nigeria, a nation marked by diverse landscapes and cultural richness, grapples with significant healthcare disparities between urban and rural areas. While urban centers face issues such as minimal medical resources, a lack of healthcare workers and a lack of necessary equipment, they still provide decent healthcare services unlike rural communities who face numerous challenges that hinder their access to essential healthcare services.

Rural communities in Nigeria encounter formidable barriers on regular basis when it comes to accessing healthcare services. One of the primary challenges is the shortage of healthcare facilities and trained medical professionals in remote areas.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), there is a significant urban-rural divide in the distribution of healthcare resources in Nigeria, with the majority concentrated in urban centers.

Challenges in Rural Healthcare Access

Geographic Barriers: One of the primary obstacles to healthcare access in rural areas is the geographic isolation of these communities. Many rural regions in Nigeria are situated far from urban centers, making it difficult for residents to reach healthcare facilities promptly. Long distances, poor road conditions, and a lack of reliable transportation options have contributed to delays or altogether neglected healthcare seeking behaviors.

Shortage of Healthcare Facilities and Personnel: Rural areas frequently deal with a shortage of healthcare facilities and trained medical professionals. Nigeria has a disproportionately low number of healthcare facilities in rural areas compared to urban centers. This shortage not only limits the availability of essential services but also results in prolonged waiting times for medical attention.

Financial Constraints:
Economic factors also play a significant role in healthcare access, especially in rural communities where poverty rates tend to be higher. The majority of rural residents often struggle to afford healthcare services, medications, and transportation costs to reach medical facilities. Out-of-pocket expenses associated with healthcare often deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention, exacerbating health problems and perpetuating a cycle of poverty.

Healthcare Infrastructure Disparities: The disparity in healthcare infrastructure between urban and rural areas is stark. Urban centers have significantly better hospitals and clinics, while many rural healthcare facilities are plagued by dilapidation and a lack of essential medical equipment. The Nigerian government’s National Health Facilities Registry highlights the uneven distribution of healthcare infrastructure, with urban areas having a higher concentration of better equipped facilities.

Lack of Skilled Personnel: In addition to inadequate facilities, rural areas face a shortage of skilled healthcare professionals. The WHO reports that the distribution of healthcare workers in Nigeria is highly skewed as urban areas have a more significant concentration of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers. This scarcity of skilled personnel in rural regions further diminishes the quality of healthcare services available to residents.

Power Challenges: Another critical aspect of healthcare infrastructure often overlooked is the lack of reliable electricity in rural regions. Many healthcare facilities in remote areas struggle with power shortages which hinders the functionality of medical equipment and limits the provision of essential healthcare services. Electrification rates in rural areas are considerably lower than in urban centers, exacerbating the healthcare infrastructure divide.

Proposed Solutions

Investment in Rural Healthcare Infrastructure: Increasing investments in rural healthcare facilities is imperative in order to address the healthcare infrastructure disparities. Building new, well-equipped healthcare centers and upgrading existing ones will improve the availability and quality of healthcare services in remote regions. The Nigerian government, in collaboration with international partners, can allocate funds specifically for rural healthcare infrastructure development.

Training and Deployment of Healthcare Professionals: Addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals in rural areas requires a comprehensive strategy. Government initiatives and incentives should be implemented to encourage medical professionals to work in undeserved communities. Investing in the education and training of local community health workers can also enhance primary healthcare services in rural areas and provide a sustainable solution to the shortage of skilled personnel.

Improving Transportation Infrastructure: Efforts to improve healthcare access should also focus on transportation infrastructure. Constructing and maintaining reliable roads in rural areas, as well as implementing affordable and accessible public transportation options, can significantly reduce travel barriers for rural residents seeking medical attention.

Financial Support and Health Insurance: The government can establish and promote health insurance programs targeted at low-income individuals in rural areas. These programs can provide financial relief and encourage healthcare utilization by covering medical expenses. Additionally, subsidies for essential medications and preventive healthcare measures can contribute to a healthier rural population.

Alternative Energy Solutions: Implementing alternative energy solutions such as solar power is crucial to provide a solution to address power challenges in rural healthcare facilities. The integration of sustainable energy sources can ensure a reliable electricity supply, enabling the consistent operation of medical equipment and improving the overall quality of healthcare services in rural areas.

Last line

Nigeria’s urban-rural disparities in healthcare accessibility and infrastructure can only be resolved when there is a concerted effort from the government, healthcare organizations, and the international community. By acknowledging the challenges faced by rural communities and implementing comprehensive, sustainable solutions, Nigeria can pave the way for a more equitable healthcare system.

Bridging these gaps is not just a matter of social justice but a strategic investment in the nation’s health and development. When stakeholders work collaboratively, the possibility of attaining accessible, quality healthcare for all Nigerians, regardless of their geographic location, can become a reality.

Aishat M. Abisola is a NYSC corps member with PRNigeria in Abuja

By Jamila Yunusa Sulieman

They say ignorance is bliss, but only to the ignorant. Over the years, I have read articles on Sickle Cell Disease and witnessed some close associates deal with the unending crisis. Little did I know it would be a first-hand experience for me.

I got married without a genotype investigation, though my spouse was very sincere with his as I carelessly assumed I was of the AA genotype because my siblings all had the AA genotype except for my immediate elder brother. Careless, right? My genotype Status dawned on me during the routine medical test for antenatal. Naturally, I broke down, and full of disappointment, I prayed and cried. I had my first child and two more, which were all declared healthy and free of Sickle Cell Disease. 

It was bliss; family members would congratulate me and help me praise Allah; the feeling was more like hitting the jackpot. Four years passed by after the birth of my third child, and just then, pain and fear decided to take a seat in the kingdom of bliss. I had taken myself for an ultrasound in one of the prestigious Ultrasound service providers, where I was declared eight weeks gone. I took one of the fastest routes to my place. I walked slowly but could feel my heart beating faster; I didn’t have the excitement of pregnancy because all I felt were premonitions.

I would cry myself to sleep, and some nights, I would think deep into the night. I sparked out of melancholy. I started my antenatal clinics at 12 weeks of gestation. I became even more prayerful even though I knew I had very slim chances of having a child who wouldn’t have the SS genotype as scientifically proven. Time passed so fast, and it was 40 weeks already. I welcomed my bundle of joy with much happiness and prayers but with so much fear and guilt. 

The tension in me grew as the days passed by. He was one sickly child with a huge appetite. It was about six months when I finally summoned the courage to take him for genotype testing; after samples had been taken, I waited patiently for the test results; the wait seemed like forever. After waiting three hours, I had to enter the lab and demand the results. The microbiologist would give excuses, and so I knew something was up. 

A few minutes later, the most senior microbiologist in the lab walked up to me. Before he could complete what he was saying, I asked, “It’s SS, right?”. The affirmation on his face broke me. I walked home crying with my baby strapped to my back, and I kept repeating to myself, “I am a bad mother. I have failed my child. What have I done? How can I subject my own child to this?” I wept, I became sobber, I didn’t feel happiness or joy around me. It affected my work, my family life and my social life. 

Although I was down, I immediately registered him for the SCD clinics, I took precautions, I improved his diet, I began researching Sickle Cell Disease, I connected with mothers with Sickle Cell Disease, and we shared observations and suggestions. The nurses and doctors were always welcoming and readily available. Unfortunately, we come across people who do not understand our situation and make us feel we are just blowing things out of proportion. If only they knew the weight we carry in our hearts and the hopelessness we sometimes feel.

Sometimes, I forget his medical condition, but whenever he breaks down, it feels like the end of happiness; the whole feeling of guilt and carelessness becomes a rebirth in my life. Those days and nights of sleeplessness, the pain of watching him go through the pain and all I can do is pray and give him the best care I can. My heart gets shattered into bits and pieces. This I have brought upon my child. 

I question myself whether he would grow up to have a normal childhood like every child. What will be my answer when he begins to question his medical state in future? Would he forgive me? Would he see me as a good mother? Will there come a time when I will stop biting myself so hard?

Indeed, ignorance is not bliss but a silent time bomb waiting to explode. Love and attraction should not be the only basis for marriage; genotype plays a key role. It is time we stopped only reading about Sickle Cell Disease and began to give genotype investigation its due.

Jamila Yunusa Sulieman is an Abuja-based mother of 4 and a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University. She has a passion for enlightening others and imparting knowledge. She can be reached via suleimanjamila21@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi D. Hassan

Nigeria is described as the most populous black nation in the world, with over 200 million inhabitants, Africa’s biggest economy, and endowed with variant mineral deposits to improve the living standards of its citizens. Yet, the country is bedevilled by gross corruption. Poor governance, ethnic tension, and abject poverty threaten integrity and sovereignty.

Even though, in the past, Nigeria witnessed serial military rulers, The nation transitioned to democracy in 1999. Since then, Nigeria’s leadership has emerged; leaders have been elected from different platforms and regions. Thus, the problems lingered; most elections were marred by irregularities, political interference, and power tussles from one inch to the next.

The political parties adopt the concept of rotating power between the north and south to accommodate the plural ethno-religious groups in the country. After the two tenures of Muhammadu Buhari. Bola Tinubu was nominated by the All Progressive Congress (APC). Amidst serials of allegations labelled against him by the opposition to hinder his andidacy, The bulk of Nigerians were enthusiastic about the level of experiences and transformation built in Lagos from 1999 to 2032.

On May 29, a new Nigeria’s president, Bola, was sworn in. In his inauguration speech, he made a striking remark on Nigeria, mentioning, ‘Subsidy has gone, the controversial fuel subsidy scheme. Four decades of financial assistance were institutionalised in the 1970s by the government to minimise the excessive cost of fuel (Premium Motor Spirit) to consumers and affordability to average citizens. Within a week’s time, the prices of basic household items, transport fares, and electricity began to rise at a high pace. Thus, fuel subsidy is the direct government intervention for the common man that benefits directly, without an odd process. Subsequently, the price increment affects the pharmaceutical industry acutely.

In recent months, patients from economically deprived backgrounds with terminal illnesses and diseases have been on recommended drugs and life-support medications. They are exposed to the brunt of fuel subsidy removal principles. Patients with asthma, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, and sickle cell diseases find it hard to afford medications at exorbitant prices. Due to financial hardship, inflation, and 1000 per cent hikes in drug prices.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a British pharmaceutical and biotechnological company, withdraws from Nigeria. After 51 years of operation, The pharmaceutical firm is known for producing effective drugs, anti-biotics, anti-asthma, anti-malaria, allergy relief, painkillers, pain cream, and nasal decongestion. According to the report by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria faced a setback in sales of N7.75 billion ($9.83 million) from N14.8 billion last year. GlaxoSmithKline’s existence leads to a drug hike, patients being unable to have medication and an increase in fake drugs. Similarly, GSK faces challenges from the high cost of importation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), a lack of steady power supply, and the depreciation of the naira against the US dollar.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the value of pharmaceutical products imported into Nigeria rose by 68 per cent to N81.8 billion ($99.1 million) between July and September 2023. The reports revealed that most of the drugs were imported from China, India, the United States, France, and Germany.

From the price survey across the country, the drugs were selling: asthma inhalers from N4,000 ($4.86) to N12,000 ($14.57), hypertension drugs from N10,000 ($12.14) to N20,000 ($24.28), augmentin tablets from N6, 000 ($7.28) to N24, 000 ($29.14), and Glucophage from N3, 800 ($4.61) to N6, 200 ($7.53). The prices vary between cities and regions.

David Uja, 63, a retired army officer frail from prostate cancer, undergoes chemotherapy for two sessions. Each cost him $100. She said, “For almost two months. All the prescribed drugs I used have already expired. The little pension received from the government is not enough to buy medicines at a high price. The economy is bad for us; people battle deadly sickness.”

“After I complained to my doctor, who relocated to the UK, Thanks to him, he sent me an Orgovyx tablet via courier, an expensive drug over $400, said Mr David.

Dataphyte reports that in 2021, only three per cent of the Nigerian population will have health insurance. Despite the guidelines of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), it is mandatory for Nigeria to benefit from the insurance. Public servants have smooth access to it. An employer will contribute 10% of the monthly basic salary, while the employee contributes 5%. The insurance covers the contributor, spouse, and four biological children less than 18 years old. The current monthly minimum wage is $44.45. Technical non-government workers are denied access to health facilities and medication.

In October, the Central Bank of Nigeria lifted the ban on 43 items after 8 years to allow access to foreign exchange and import-listed goods in the country. Never, pharmaceuticals and medical essentials are excluded from the list.

Interestingly, oil is the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy. Even so, the country has remained poor, with its citizens living below the poverty line of $1 per day. Nigeria has been nearly six months without a fuel subsidy. The majority of Nigerians are unable to afford standard health service delivery. These led to fast and quick deaths among the vulnerable. Others reside in rural areas that lack the means to buy drugs at a high rate. Alternative to traditional medicines.

Therefore, deciding on traditional medicine, given its low cost of purchase, Such medicine lacks a scientific approach, and most traditional doctors determine the nature of an ailment by mere observation. Outwardly of any examination and sometimes depend on spiritual healings in order to detect the course of sickness. These have made life more difficult in a nation with a life expectancy of 53.87 years.

Abdullahi D. Hassan is a freelance journalist and writer from Abuja, Nigeria. His journalistic and literary pieces were published in Daily Trust, The Guardian, Triumph, Politics Today, The Daily Reality, and Kalahari Review.     

By Nusaiba Ibrahim Na’abba

We continue to lose a part of us – our brothers, sisters, friends and colleagues – to drug abuse. It keeps getting scarier, forcing all of us to have bleak thoughts about the future. For us to win this war against drug abuse, we need to do the following and, perhaps, more.

Communality: Our common fight against the pervasiveness of these substances was long lost here. Achieving common goals is now a bizarre thing of the past. When problems happen at family or community levels, we begin playing blame games. And to those who think their wards are ‘righteous’, they’ve done an impeccable parenting job. They describe people who are facing the heartbreak of child-related drug abuse as being incapable, too strict or too loving to their kids to let that happen. They then hop on the trend of gentle parenting as the key to having upright children. But reality shows that some parents who battle these problems possess proper parenting skills.

Now, in the case of the neighbourhood or larger community engagements, menial signs of danger are being neglected. Often, these drug dealings and businesses flourish where there is community negligence. The drug lords are purposeful enough to select urban areas where families live low-key lives. There, they conduct their sales without much or any attention from the communities, using selected morning hours for their exchanges. Quickly, a business of millions will happen in front of your house, and you will forever not know.

We must work together to be more vigilant. I am confident that the power of our communal efforts supersedes a few bad eggs that vow to torment the lives of our beloved youths with harmful substances. This battle is beyond a one-man thing. I’m also not generalising the drug dealings to happen in all urban areas in Kano, but there are several allegations about that.

Sustainable Income Options: About four years ago, the BBC Africa Eye gave staggering statistics of codeine consumption in Kano and Jigawa States in their investigative report titled Sweet Sweet Codeine. Well, the situation has only gotten worse with shisha parlours and other unthinkable substances aimed at destroying us in total. The mere imagination of how much is invested in this business is inconceivable. Unlike food, illicit substance addiction does not embrace sorry as an answer. Even in the eyes of the storm, addicts must get their day’s share. And this is why its market keeps expanding and thriving. Before you start arguing, they never fail in their businesses because they always have a market.

Unless a robust, sustainable income generation mechanism is found and proliferated in the minds of young adults into this business, we will continue to lose hope. It is extremely difficult to convince a young adult who has discovered the ropes of this illegal business to start a legal business with a low income. Their state of growth is one, and the reality you cannot overlook is difficult. Adding to the complexity of the already bad situation, you would find it difficult to neglect how politicians spend money lavishly, which is widely spread on social media.

This is one of the most difficult tools that must be deployed in this fight.

Women Groups: I’m 100% supporting creating women groups who can keenly monitor community levels. Women possess an indispensable role in upbringing, and they receive the largest share of agony when they lose their child to drug abuse. When they are part of decision-making, they can contribute immensely to the patterns they notice in their wards, and finally, they own the collective action.

Nonetheless, they must be trained rigorously on the processes they can use to fact-check drug abuse in their kids. It has been an issue that women do not understand the change in eating, sleeping, or engagement habits of their kids, which is drug-related. With the training, the problem can be tackled early before it escalates.

I can vividly recall when a mature lady entered our house some years ago. She came in with deep red eyes, along with a young girl who was 7 to 8 years old. It was in the evening, around 5 p.m., when we were seated in our compound, chatting. The woman, whose age I cannot ascertain, said she needed help with some money to buy foodstuff. By Allah, her appearance and language did not show she needed help. In fact, she appeared to be more of a well-to-do individual. But you could tell she was desperate for something, and the little girl kept giving her looks of disbelief with every sentence she made.

My mother said she had no money to help her. After a moment, she gathered momentum and said goodbye, leaving with the kid. It was only months after the encounter that my mother explained that she was sure that the woman was high on a substance and that she desperately needed money to keep going.

This world is a scary place.

Language and Codes: People who are associated with illicit substance abuse or business create codes for interaction so that they cannot be easily identified. It is usually only the people in their circle who can understand them.

There must be a way of breaking down their language and codes to identify them quickly. It creates a massive gap in understanding the context of discussions; hence, meeting points and business dealings can be set up effortlessly without anybody noticing. In community kiosks where these exchanges happen, they are facilitated by a unique language and code.

We need to break that language barrier to dissect the problem better so we can address it appropriately.

Nusaiba Ibrahim Na’abba wrote from Kano. She can be reached via nusaibaibrahim66@gmail.com.

By Salihi Adamu Takai

The case of culpable homicide has become a daily report case in Kano State. The crime is a rampant nuisance that disturbs the whole country today. This is horrible in a state like Kano, which is the most populous state in Nigeria.

The rampancy of the crime is not only confusing but also the human, physical, and emotional proximity of the parties that are involved in the commission of the crime. The case of the rampancy of the commission of the crime is abnormal considering how it has been in records in police stations and contained in many cases of laws.

Most of the reported culpable homicides in Kano show the relationship and social proximity of the parties involved in it. The accused persons of the reported cases had proximity to the dead persons. This started – (as I have noticed it) – from the Hanifa’s case. Hanifa was kidnapped and killed by her teacher. There was a human proximity between the dead person and the accused person.

The Chinese man who killed his girlfriend had human proximity to the dead person engaged in courtship, and he eventually killed her. The recent case of Hafsa is also a case that confuses lots of people in Kano. The accused person had proximity to the dead person, and she killed him. Yesterday, it was reported that a person raped and killed his sister in Kano.

Therefore, this rampant nuisance in the report of the cases of culpable homicide in Kano is not a mere thing of crime inconsistent with the Penal Code; it’s beyond human perspectives and avoidable. What a relationship that puts people into a dilemma! Son kills his mother, and mother kills her son!!

It’s a collective responsibility of the Kano State community to engage in the proper investigation of the causes of these crimes. Islamic scholars shall always deliver sermons to admonish people on such offences, and the life of the Prophet (SAW) shall be part of the sermon so Muslims can always remain in touch with it.