Nigeria

By Uzair Adam

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has disclosed that the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), and 13 other agencies failed to meet the standards set by its 2024 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS).

This revelation underscores the inability of several prominent institutions to adhere to the ethical benchmarks established by the ICPC.

The announcement was made on Thursday in Abuja during the unveiling of the agency’s EICS report by Dr. Musa Aliyu, Chairman of the ICPC, who was represented by Demola Bakare, the Director of Public Enlightenment and Education.

According to Aliyu, a total of 330 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were evaluated in the outgoing year, with none achieving full compliance.

Among the 15 non-compliant MDAs were the University of Ibadan (UI), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Legal Aid Council, Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, the Federal Civil Service Commission, and several others.

These agencies reportedly failed to conduct system studies or submit required financial and audit reports.

Aliyu cautioned that the ICPC would take necessary enforcement measures to ensure compliance.

Despite the shortcomings of some MDAs, he commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for leading the compliance rankings with a score of 89.75 percent, followed by the Nigeria Railway Corporation (89.33 percent) and Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (88.73 percent).

The assessment focused on indicators such as Management Culture and Structure, Governance and Executive Management, Financial Management Systems, and Administrative Systems. It also examined policies on ethics education, whistle-blowing mechanisms, and stock verification.

Aliyu stated that the EICS serves as a tool for identifying gaps, advising on policy, and fostering self-evaluation among MDAs. Between December 2023 and December 2024, the ICPC tracked 1,500 projects across 22 states, valued at N610 billion, recovering N346 million in cash, N400 million in assets, and saving N30 billion for the government.

The report highlighted that 29.55 percent of MDAs achieved substantial compliance, 51.62 percent partial compliance, and 2.92 percent were categorized as non-compliant.

Jimoh Sulaiman, Head of the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative, noted that tracking projects had increased completion rates and public accountability.

“Nigerians now realize that project funding originates from the Federal Government, not politicians’ pockets, leading to greater demand for accountability,” he said.

By Rabi Ummi Umar

Journalism is a global profession of significance, recognised and protected by constitutional statutes. In Nigeria, it is the only profession explicitly acknowledged in the 1999 Constitution.

Chapter 2, Section 22, titled Obligation of the Mass Media, mandates that “The press, radio, television, and other agencies of the mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this Chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people.”

Similarly, Chapter 4, Section 39 guarantees “freedom of expression and the press,” ensuring every citizen’s right to hold opinions and share information freely.

With these constitutional provisions, journalists are tasked with informing the public and bridging the gap between government and citizens. They serve as vital agents of transparency and accountability, reinforcing democracy by fostering open communication and trust.

However, the path of a journalist is fraught with challenges. While the profession is often romanticised as noble, those outside the field frequently underestimate its complexities.

In today’s digital era, citizen journalism has blurred the lines between professional journalism and unverified information shared on social media. The advent of blogs and platforms has given rise to individuals claiming to be journalists without formal training, undermining the profession’s credibility.

Real journalists with specialised training adhere to high verification and reporting standards. However, distinguishing them from impostors is becoming increasingly tricky, primarily online.

For instance, the recent case of Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff, who published unverified claims about the Sokoto State government, highlights the consequences of misinformation. Although she eventually apologised, her actions emphasised the need for professionalism and ethical standards in journalism.

Untrained influencers and bloggers often disseminate half-truths or outright falsehoods before verified news reaches the public. Their fame and large followings make it harder for audiences to discern fact from fiction.

This misleads the public and makes it challenging for trained journalists to correct narratives. Professional journalists face immense personal and professional pressures.

They contend with fatigue, low motivation, and depression but must persevere for the sake of public service. On the streets, they endure insults and harassment while gathering stories, often risking their safety and personal relationships.

Investigative journalists, in particular, face the highest risks, with some losing their lives in pursuit of the truth. Police harassment is another recurring issue. Journalists are frequently detained or obstructed while on assignments despite their role as allies serving the public interest.

Such hostility erodes trust between security agencies and the press, undermining collaboration.

Misinformation poses one of the greatest threats to journalism. Nigerians and citizen journalists must understand that setting the nation on a better path requires a civil, constructive approach. Publicly disparaging the government or amplifying unverified claims online worsens problems without offering meaningful solutions.

Journalists must be empowered to tackle these challenges effectively. This begins with creating an environment where journalists feel safe and valued. Providing resources for unhindered reporting, ensuring mental and physical well-being, and recognising exceptional contributions through awards can significantly boost morale.

Collaboration is also essential. Journalists should partner with lawyers, security agencies, and other stakeholders to form coalitions that uphold ethical practices and safeguard the profession’s integrity.

Finally, journalists must advocate for safe civic spaces where everyone can share information without fear. Upholding constitutional protections is crucial, but building trust, professionalism, and resilience is equally essential for journalism to thrive. Only then can the press fulfil its role as the cornerstone of democracy and accountability.

Rabi Ummi Umar is a student at Al-Hikmah University, and she can be reached via rabiumar058@gmail.com.

By Usman Abdullahi Koli 

The Nigerian healthcare system has long faced challenges that make accessing quality care difficult, especially for the average citizen. Many patients have endured unnecessary struggles during critical moments, from long queues at registration units to delays in retrieving medical records. Tragically, these inefficiencies have, in some cases, led to preventable losses—not just because of late arrivals at hospitals but also due to prolonged registration and file retrieval processes.

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) Bauchi has boldly changed this narrative. Staying true to its vision and mission, the hospital has introduced an innovative e-health system to alleviate these issues. This transformation goes beyond addressing immediate challenges—it sets ATBUTH on a path to becoming a leader in modern, patient-focused healthcare in Nigeria.

ATBUTH has been a symbol of hope for years, offering quality healthcare to countless patients while continuously striving to improve its services. Recognizing the growing needs of modern healthcare, the hospital has embraced advanced digital solutions to revolutionize how it delivers care.

Adopting an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system, seamlessly integrated with the eCMDS platform, reflects ATBUTH’s commitment to progress and patient well-being. This transformative step simplifies operations, improves administrative processes, and creates a more compassionate, patient-centred experience for everyone who walks through its doors.

The introduction of e-health at ATBUTH also aligns with a Federal Government policy to digitize public services. This initiative aligns with global trends, ensuring healthcare services are faster, safer, and easier to access. Digitizing patient records, registration, billing, and laboratory results drastically reduces waiting times and makes every interaction smoother.

The EMR system protects patient data from being lost or tampered with, while automated processes close gaps that could lead to fraud or revenue loss. Furthermore, the centralized database enables researchers to access accurate, real-time information, fostering medical advancements. This leap into digitization firmly establishes ATBUTH as a forward-thinking institution ready to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with leading hospitals in Nigeria and beyond.

Although the implementation of the e-health system has been highly successful, challenges still exist. One of the most pressing issues is network reliability, which can sometimes be unpredictable. However, the hospital’s management is actively working to resolve these issues permanently to ensure uninterrupted services. Unfortunately, specific individuals have also attempted to undermine this initiative by spreading misinformation and discouraging public trust. Such actions disrupt progress and risk undoing the remarkable strides ATBUTH has made in improving healthcare delivery.

Everyone must understand that progress is a journey that moves forward, not backwards. For ATBUTH to maintain its momentum as a leader in healthcare innovation, it needs the collective support of patients, staff, and the public. Adopting the e-health system is not just about modernizing healthcare—it’s about making services more accessible, efficient, and humane.

Despite being a relatively young institution, ATBUTH has achieved remarkable feats rivalling even the country’s most established hospitals. This e-health initiative is a testament to the hospital’s determination to excel and better serve its community.

ATBUTH’s e-health system is more than just a technological upgrade—it is a lifeline for thousands of patients who rely on the hospital for their care. As this digital transformation continues to evolve, the public must embrace and support it wholeheartedly. Together, we can ensure ATBUTH remains a trusted name in healthcare and a symbol of progress in Nigeria’s health sector.

Usman Abdullahi Koli writes from Bauchi.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu

Access to quality healthcare remains a pressing issue in Nigeria, particularly for the millions living in rural areas. Despite various initiatives to improve healthcare delivery, rural communities continue to face significant barriers, resulting in poor health outcomes and deepening inequalities in the healthcare system. 

These challenges underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare access. One of the most significant challenges rural communities face is geographical isolation. Many villages and settlements are far from urban centres where most healthcare facilities are concentrated. 

The distance to the nearest hospital or clinic can sometimes span hundreds of kilometres, making timely access to care nearly impossible for many rural residents. This problem is exacerbated during medical emergencies, where every second counts, yet patients must endure long and arduous journeys before reaching medical help.

A chronic lack of healthcare infrastructure plagues Nigeria’s rural areas. Many villages do not have hospitals or clinics; even where facilities exist, they are often under-resourced. Shortages of essential medical supplies, equipment, and trained personnel are common, making providing even basic healthcare services difficult. 

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria needs to increase the number of healthcare workers and facilities to meet the growing demands of its population, particularly in underserved rural areas. Poor transportation systems further compound the challenges of accessing healthcare in rural Nigeria. 

The lack of reliable road networks, especially during the rainy season, leaves many rural areas cut off from healthcare services. Sometimes, patients must travel on foot or rely on motorcycles, which may not be suitable for critically ill individuals. 

The absence of affordable public transport options also limits the ability of rural residents to seek medical care, particularly for routine check-ups or preventive healthcare. Financial hardship is another significant barrier. Many rural residents are subsistence farmers or engage in informal sector jobs with little to no stable income. 

As a result, they often cannot afford healthcare services, especially when these are not subsidised. Even when free services are available, hidden costs such as transportation, medication, and unofficial fees can deter people from seeking care.

Cultural beliefs and language differences present additional hurdles for rural communities. In some areas, traditional medicine is preferred over modern healthcare, leading to delays in seeking professional medical attention. Furthermore, healthcare providers unfamiliar with local languages and cultural practices may struggle to communicate effectively with patients, resulting in misunderstandings and mistrust.

The challenges of accessing healthcare in rural areas have far-reaching consequences. One of the most alarming is poor health outcomes, including higher rates of maternal and infant mortality. According to UNICEF, Nigeria accounts for a significant proportion of global maternal deaths, with rural women disproportionately affected due to a lack of access to skilled birth attendants and emergency obstetric care.

Delayed treatment is another critical issue. The inability to access healthcare promptly often leads to the progression of diseases to more severe stages, reducing the chances of successful treatment. For example, conditions like hypertension or diabetes, which can be managed with early intervention, often go undiagnosed and untreated in rural areas, leading to life-threatening complications.

Additionally, the economic burden of healthcare is devastating for rural households. The cost of treatment can deplete a family’s savings, forcing them to sell assets or take on debt. This cycle of poverty further entrenches the disparities between urban and rural populations.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. Governments and stakeholders must prioritise investment in rural healthcare infrastructure. Building and equipping clinics and hospitals in underserved areas is critical to reducing the geographical barriers rural communities face. Additionally, mobile clinics and telemedicine programs can bring healthcare services closer to people who live in remote locations.

Community-based healthcare programs are another effective solution. Training and deploying community health workers to provide essential services such as immunisations, maternal care, and health education can significantly improve health outcomes. These workers can serve as rural residents’ first point of contact, offering accessible and culturally appropriate care.

Financial support for rural residents is equally important. Subsidising healthcare costs through insurance schemes or direct financial aid can ensure that rural populations can afford essential services without economic hardship. The government’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) should be expanded and tailored to adequately cover rural residents.

Finally, addressing cultural and language barriers is essential for fostering trust between healthcare providers and rural communities. Training healthcare workers in cultural sensitivity and local languages can improve communication and encourage more people to seek care. Public health campaigns should also engage community leaders and use culturally relevant messaging to promote modern healthcare practices.

To conclude, the healthcare challenges in rural Nigeria are deeply rooted in geographical, infrastructural, financial, and cultural issues. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. 

Nigeria can take significant steps toward achieving equitable healthcare access for all its citizens by investing in rural healthcare infrastructure, implementing community-based programs, providing financial support, and addressing cultural barriers. Ensuring that no one is left behind in the quest for quality healthcare is a moral imperative and a necessary foundation for the nation’s development and prosperity.

Usman Muhammad Salihu was among the pioneer cohorts of the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship and wrote in from Jos via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed that over 25 million phones were stolen in Nigeria between March 2023 and April 2024.

This is according to findings from the bureau’s Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey 2024.

The report highlighted that approximately 17,965,741 individuals experienced phone theft during the reference period, making it the most prevalent crime at the individual level.

It noted that 13.8% of Nigerians reported phone theft, which accounts for a significant proportion of the 21.4% of citizens who reported being victims of crime overall.

The survey further disclosed that seven out of every 10 stolen phones were taken either at home or in public spaces.

Despite this, less than 10% of victims reported these incidents to the police, citing various reasons for their reluctance.

Among those who reported, only 11.7% expressed satisfaction with the police response.

This report underscores the pervasive nature of phone theft in the country, emphasizing the need for improved security measures and better law enforcement responses.

By Anas Abbas

As the Harmattan season arrives in northern Nigeria, its dry, dusty winds from the Sahara present both beauty and challenges. Lasting from late November to mid-March, this weather phenomenon often worsens respiratory and skin health issues. Medical experts offer essential advice to help individuals protect their well-being during this period of challenges.

In an exclusive interview, Dr Naser Yakubu Ismail, a seasoned medical doctor, shed light on key health risks associated with Harmattan and how to address them effectively.

Respiratory Health: A Key Concern

“The dry air and dust particles characteristic of Harmattan frequently trigger asthma attacks, bronchitis, and allergies,” warned Dr. Naser in a report by The Daily Reality. He stressed the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent respiratory complications during this period.

Skin Issues on the Rise

Beyond respiratory concerns, Harmattan’s low humidity often worsens skin conditions, such as dryness and eczema. “The dry air strips the skin of its natural moisture, leading to irritation and discomfort,” Dr. Naser explained. Those with pre-existing skin conditions may experience heightened symptoms, making proper skincare essential.

Additionally, cold temperatures can pose heightened risks for individuals with sickle cell disease, as they are more susceptible to painful crises triggered by sudden drops in temperature.

Expert-Recommended Preventive Measures

To reduce health risks during Harmattan, Dr. Naser provided several practical tips:

1. Stay Hydrated

“Drinking plenty of water is crucial to keeping both the skin and respiratory system moist,” he advised. Adequate hydration supports skin elasticity and overall respiratory function, lowering the risk of complications.

2. Dress Appropriately

For individuals with sickle cell disease, staying warm is non-negotiable. “Wear layers, including sweaters, hoodies, and socks, to retain body heat,” Dr. Naser recommended. Minimising exposure to extreme cold by staying indoors during frigid weather is also advised.

3. Manage Asthma and Allergies

Asthma patients are particularly vulnerable during Harmattan. Dr. Naser emphasised the importance of identifying and avoiding triggers such as cold air, dust, and pollen. He also encouraged consistent use of prescribed medications and maintaining a dust-free home environment.

4. Combat Dry Skin

Using moisturisers regularly can alleviate skin dryness. “Apply a thick layer of cream or ointment after bathing to lock in moisture and protect the skin,” Dr Naser suggested.

5. Monitor Symptoms

“Be vigilant about health symptoms during this season,” Dr. Naser cautioned. Persistent coughing, shortness of breath, severe headaches, or unusual fatigue should not be ignored. Individuals experiencing these symptoms, especially those with underlying health conditions, should seek prompt medical attention.

A Call for Vigilance and Proactivity

Dr Naser urged the community to prioritise their health during Harmattan. “Stay informed about weather conditions, take preventive measures seriously, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if needed,” he said.

Adhering to these recommendations—staying hydrated, protecting the skin, and prioritising respiratory health—individuals can mitigate the adverse effects of Harmattan. Awareness and proactive measures are essential for ensuring a healthy and safe season for all.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Senate has taken the first step towards banning the use of foreign currencies in the country.

A bill seeking to prohibit the use of foreign currency in Nigeria has scaled first reading in the House of Senate.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, aims to ensure that all payments, including salaries and transactions, are made using the local currency, the naira.

According to Senator Nwoko, the widespread use of foreign currencies in Nigeria’s financial system undermines the value of the naira.

He described the use of foreign currencies like the dollar and pound sterling as a “colonial relic” that hinders Nigeria’s economic independence.

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, No. 7, to Prohibit the Use of Foreign Currencies for Remuneration and Other Related Matters,” seeks to amend the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

This development has sparked mixed reactions, with some Nigerians expressing support for the move, while others have raised concerns about its potential impact on the economy.

By Sanusi Maikudi 

In her recent remarks, Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK Conservative Party, reportedly dismissed associations with Nigeria beyond her Yoruba heritage. She distanced herself from Northern Nigeria and associated it narrowly with Islamism. These comments, replete with historical ignorance and political misjudgement, reflect poorly on her understanding of the intertwined histories of Britain and Nigeria and, by extension, her role as a leader in one of the world’s oldest democracies.

It is troubling that Badenoch, a figure who aspires to statesmanship, would exhibit such a parochial view of her heritage and the complex relationship between the United Kingdom and Northern Nigeria. Her remarks not only betray an ignorance of British colonial history but also reflect a failure to grasp the significance of global citizenship—an essential quality for anyone seeking to lead in a post-imperial world.

Misunderstanding History

Badenoch’s attempt to disassociate herself from Northern Nigeria exposes a glaring lack of awareness about the region’s rich and diverse history. Long before colonialism, Northern Nigeria boasted a sophisticated socio-political structure exemplified by the Sokoto Caliphate and other emirates. These entities maintained written records, produced scholarly works in Arabic, and upheld organised governance systems.

British colonial explorers and missionaries documented these structures extensively. Figures like Hugh Clapperton, Mungo Park, and Frederick Lugard not only travelled through Northern Nigeria but also admired its governance systems. The British colonial administration, recognising the efficacy of Northern Nigeria’s traditional leadership, adopted the system of indirect rule to govern the region. This is a testament to the historical and administrative depth of the region—a depth Badenoch seems to have overlooked.

Furthermore, the Christian missionaries who ventured into Northern Nigeria risked their lives not to trivialise or divide but to understand and engage with its people. Their contributions are preserved in archives that form part of Britain’s collective memory. Denying or dismissing this history is ignorant and disrespectful to the legacy of British-Nigerian relations.

A Failure of Diplomacy

As a leader in a global power, Badenoch is expected to demonstrate diplomatic acumen and cultural sensitivity. Her dismissive remarks, however, suggest a narrow worldview that is unbecoming of someone in her position. Britain’s legacy as the patron of the Commonwealth—a union of diverse nations shaped by shared history—requires its leaders to embody inclusivity and understanding.

Badenoch undermines her credibility by distancing herself from Northern Nigeria in such a derogatory manner. Her comments seem less like the musings of a seasoned statesperson and more like pandering to fringe nationalist sentiments. Was she addressing British society, which has long recognised and documented the importance of Northern Nigeria? Or was she appealing to a clandestine audience of Yoruba nationalist agitators? Either way, her remarks reveal a political novice more concerned with short-term rhetoric than long-term statesmanship.

The Irony of Her Position

Badenoch’s position as a British politician of Nigerian descent is itself a product of the historical forces she now dismisses. Like many others from former colonies, her parents benefited from the opportunities created by Britain’s imperial legacy. She was born in London, a city shaped by centuries of global migration and colonial history. Ironically, the very system she now seeks to lead is a product of the multiculturalism and interconnectedness she seems to reject.

It is also worth noting that Badenoch’s rise to prominence coincides with the UK’s struggles with political leadership. The Conservative Party’s internal crises have eroded its cadre of charismatic leaders, paving the way for figures like Badenoch. Yet her divisive rhetoric and lack of historical understanding alienate mature voters and diminish her standing as a potential statesperson.

Populism and the Far-Right Trap

While Badenoch may be tempted to align herself with the growing populist and far-right ideologies in Europe, she is ultimately a victim of these movements, not a beneficiary. The same far-right ideologies that demonise immigrants and minorities would not spare someone of her background. Her attempts to position herself as “more Catholic than the Pope” by demonising others only highlight her vulnerability within such spaces.

Conclusion

Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch’s recent remarks reveal a troubling ignorance of British and Nigerian history. Her attempt to distance herself from Northern Nigeria not only disrespects the region’s rich heritage but also undermines her credibility as a leader in a globalised world. Her rhetoric, steeped in parochialism and divisiveness, starkly contrasts the qualities of diplomacy, wisdom, and inclusivity required of a true statesperson.

Rather than deriding others, Badenoch would reflect on the interconnected histories of the nations she represents and aspire to a leadership style that unites rather than divides. As history has shown, those who fail to learn from the past are often relegated to its margins. Let her words serve as a reminder of the perils of ignorance and the importance of informed leadership in a complex, interconnected world.

Sanusi Maikudi wrote from the Network for Justice, Kaduna, Nigeria, via sanusihmaikudi@yahoo.com.

By Anas Abbas

The Naira has declined in value within the parallel market, trading at N1,585 per dollar compared to N1,550 per dollar on Monday. In contrast, the official foreign exchange market reported an appreciation of the Naira, with rates improving to N1,525 per dollar, up from N1,538 per dollar earlier this week.

According to the latest data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) published in the Daily Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM), the indicative exchange rate for the Naira has strengthened by N13, reflecting a notable shift in the official market.

Figures from FMDQ reveal a significant increase in dollar transactions on the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM). Trading volume surged by 129 per cent to $401.17 million, up from $175.15 million on Monday.

The surge has resulted in a widening gap between the parallel market and the NFEM rate, which has expanded to N60 per dollar from just N12 per dollar at the start of the week.

By Uzair Adam

In a ground-breaking advancement for diabetes diagnostics, Nigeria-born Dr Fahad Usman, an Assistant Professor of Optical Engineering Technology in the United States, has introduced a highly sensitive optical biosensor capable of non-invasive diabetes screening.

Dr Usman’s pioneering work focuses on a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor that detects exhaled breath acetone, a key biomarker for diabetes. This innovative approach offers an alternative to traditional blood glucose tests, which are invasive and often painful.

Dr Usman’s research, published in top journals like Results in Physics and Polymers Journal, presents a novel ternary composite material made from polyaniline, chitosan, and reduced graphene oxide. With enhanced electrical conductivity and thermal stability, this material underpins the SPR biosensor, allowing it to detect acetone concentrations as low as 0.88 parts per billion. 

This collaboration with researchers from Malaysia, France, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S. addresses the global diabetes crisis. With over 537 million affected worldwide and projections of 783 million by 2045, this innovation promises a significant impact. According to the National Institutes of Health, over 37 million people in the U.S. are affected by diabetes. 

Due to its non-invasive nature, the optical sensor ensures greater accuracy, sensitivity, and reliability and enhances patient compliance. 

Dr Usman’s work represents a significant leap forward in healthcare innovation. It positions the U.S. at the forefront of global scientific advancements.

This technology offers potential beyond healthcare, with broader industrial applications in optical sensing and materials science.