Author: Ifunanya Okafor

The United States has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), removing one of the UN agency’s largest financial supporters. President Donald Trump initiated the withdrawal by signing an executive order a year ago, accusing the organisation of being overly aligned with China during the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, the decision was based on what it described as the WHO’s poor handling of the pandemic, failure to implement reforms, and susceptibility to political pressure from member states. The WHO has strongly denied these allegations. Its Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, described the US exit as a setback not only for the organisation but also for global public health. The agency highlighted its role in tackling polio, HIV/AIDS, maternal deaths, and enforcing international tobacco control agreements. Following the pandemic, WHO members worked on a global pandemic treaty aimed at improving preparedness and response to future outbreaks, including fairer access to vaccines and treatments. The agreement was finalised in April last year by all member states except the United States. Historically, the US has been among the WHO’s biggest contributors. However, it failed to pay its membership dues for 2024 and 2025, triggering widespread job losses within the organisation. While WHO legal advisers argue that the US is still required to settle outstanding payments estimated at about $260m (£193m), Washington has rejected this obligation. US officials confirmed that all government funding for the WHO has been halted, American staff and contractors have been withdrawn from the agency’s headquarters in Geneva and other offices worldwide, and hundreds of collaborative engagements have been suspended or terminated. In a joint statement, US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused the WHO of undermining US contributions and acting against American interests. They claimed the organisation had strayed from its core mission and cited issues including the handling of US symbols at its headquarters. They added that future US involvement with the WHO would be limited solely to completing the withdrawal process and protecting the health of Americans. The health department said the US plans to maintain disease surveillance and information-sharing through direct partnerships with other countries, though it did not specify which nations were involved. Officials also said the US would work with non-governmental and faith-based organisations to continue efforts against diseases such as polio and HIV, but provided no details on existing partnerships. When asked about continued participation in global influenza vaccine development and data sharing, officials said no clear decision had been made. After Trump signed the withdrawal order at the start of his second term, the WHO expressed hope that the US would reconsider, noting that cooperation between the two had saved countless lives and protected populations worldwide. The agency said a reversal would benefit millions of people globally. Pandemic responses in several advanced health systems, including the US and the UK, have since been criticised as delayed and ineffective. Many governments were slow to impose lockdowns, fearing public resistance, a delay that research suggests contributed significantly to the virus’s rapid spread. The US recorded one of the highest Covid-19 death rates, partly due to inconsistent implementation of public health guidance on mask-wearing and social distancing, according to former public health official Drew Altman. In a 2020 medical journal article, Altman criticised the lack of coordinated national leadership, arguing that the response became politicised, with differing approaches across states. He concluded that shortcomings in policy and leadership were central to the country’s pandemic failures. A separate research paper published in the UN’s National Library of Medicine similarly described the federal response under the Trump administration as slow and poorly managed.

Since January 2025, Nigeria is facing a serious Lassa fever crisis that has resulted in 95 deaths and 509 confirmed cases across 70 Local Government Areas. This alarming rise in infections has pushed the case fatality rate to 19.4%, up from 17.5% during the same period last year. Key Affected Areas and Demographics States such as Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi are bearing the brunt of the outbreak, collectively reporting a large share of the cases. Early reports also indicate that young adults between 21 and 30 years, with a slightly higher incidence among males, are among the most affected groups. Government and Health Sector Response In response to the escalating outbreak, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has activated its National Lassa Fever Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System. The coordinated efforts include: Rapid Response Deployment: National Rapid Response Teams have been sent to high-risk states including Gombe, Nasarawa, and Benue. Healthcare Worker Training: Specialized training on Lassa fever management is underway in key states such as Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue. Enhanced Surveillance: Intensified monitoring, contact tracing, and community outreach programs aim to quickly identify and isolate new cases. Distribution of Essential Supplies: Authorities are ensuring that affected regions receive vital commodities like personal protective equipment and the antiviral drug Ribavirin. Community Engagement and Preventive Measures Public health officials are also emphasizing the importance of preventive practices. Citizens are encouraged to maintain proper hygiene, store food securely, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, or unexplained bleeding. Additionally, plans for a nationwide rodent control initiative are being discussed, as rodents remain a key transmission vector for the disease. With multiple agencies and international partners involved, the government is determined to curb the outbreak. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and comply with all health advisories to help control the spread of Lassa fever.

In a significant stride towards de-extinction, scientists at Colossal Biosciences have successfully engineered a “woolly mouse” that displays several traits characteristic of the long-extinct woolly mammoth. Using advanced CRISPR gene-editing technology, researchers inserted key mammoth genes into mouse embryos, producing rodents with a thicker, wool-like coat and enhanced fat metabolism, adaptations vital for surviving in frigid environments. This pioneering experiment serves as an important proof-of-concept for Colossal Biosciences’ broader ambition to revive the woolly mammoth. The company plans to apply a similar genetic strategy to Asian elephants, aiming to create a hybrid that exhibits mammoth-like traits. If successful, the project could eventually lead to the birth of a woolly mammoth calf as early as 2028. The breakthrough has ignited both excitement and debate within the scientific community. Proponents see it as a promising step toward restoring lost species and even reviving ecosystems that once thrived with these ancient giants. Critics, however, urge caution, raising questions about the ecological implications and ethical challenges of reintroducing extinct species. Colossal Biosciences’ work not only highlights the potential of modern biotechnology to rewrite nature’s past but also sets the stage for a new era in conservation science. As research continues, the success of the woolly mouse experiment offers a tangible glimpse into what might one day be achieved; a bold blend of genetic innovation and conservation aimed at reshaping our understanding of biodiversity   Want to know more? Explore Colossal Biosciences’ groundbreaking technology on their official website: Colossal Biosciences. Photo credit: Colossal Biosciences

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced the appointment of 16 directors to head its key departments, marking a significant step in strengthening the institution’s leadership and regulatory framework. The appointments, come after several positions had remained unfilled for nine months following the departure of previous directors. In a bid to enhance its operational efficiency and oversight capabilities amid evolving economic challenges, the CBN has filled roles across various critical areas. The new directors will lead the following departments: Banking Supervision: Dr. Olubukola Akinwunmi Akinniyi Payment System Supervision: Yusuf Rakiya Opeyemi Consumer Protection: Aisha Isa-Olatinwo Banking Services: Abdullahi Hamisu Medical Services: Dr. OJumu Adenike Olubunmi Procurement & Support Services: Mr. Makinde Kayode Olanrewaju Information Technology: Mrs. Jide-Samuel Omoyemen Avbasowamen Financial Policy and Regulation: Mrs. Sike Rita Ijeoma Monetary Policy: Dr. Victor Ugbem Oboh Trade and Exchange: Mr. Nakorji Musa Strategy Management and Innovation: Dr. Vincent Monsurat Modesola Reserve Management: Mr. Farouk Mujtaba Muhammad Other Financial Institutions Supervision Department (OFISD): Solaja Mohammed-Jamiu Development and Finance Institutions Supervision: Hassan Umar Currency Operations and Branch Management: Adedeji Adetona Statistics: Okpanachi Moses CBN officials stressed that these strategic appointments are expected to inject fresh expertise into the bank’s leadership, enabling it to navigate Nigeria’s complex financial landscape more effectively. The restructuring aims to bolster the bank’s supervisory functions and improve its capacity to implement policy measures that support the country’s economic stability and growth.   Photo Credit: A2F.ng

China has unveiled a series of policies aimed at tackling its declining birth rate and rapidly aging population. The measures, outlined in two official government documents released on Wednesday, focus on childcare subsidies, free preschool education, and improved elderly care as part of a broader strategy to balance the country’s demographic challenges. Key Measures Introduced: Free Preschool Education & Childcare Subsidies: To encourage higher birth rates, China will gradually introduce free preschool education and provide financial support to families with young children. This move aims to reduce the economic burden of raising children and improve access to quality early childhood education. Support for Families & Women: Policies will include extended maternity leave, financial aid for families, and increased maternity insurance coverage. The government also plans to expand childcare services to help working parents balance career and family life. Elderly Care & Retirement Reforms: With a growing elderly population, China will enhance pensions, medical care, and retirement policies. Authorities are also considering gradually raising the retirement age to sustain the workforce while ensuring adequate support for senior citizens. China’s population has been in steady decline, with birth rates dropping for several years. Officials stress that these measures are part of a long-term plan to create a more sustainable and balanced population structure. By easing financial and social pressures on families and strengthening elderly care, the country aims to stabilize its demographic outlook and ensure future economic growth.

The South Korean government has announced the creation of a 50-trillion won ($34 billion) policy fund to support key industries, including semiconductors, automotive, aerospace, biopharmaceuticals, and artificial intelligence. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s economic security amid rising global competition and trade restrictions. According to the government, the fund will provide low-interest loans and investment support to companies involved in these strategic sectors over the next five years. The aim is to enhance domestic technological capabilities and ensure South Korea remains a key player in the global supply chain. This move aligns with South Korea’s ongoing efforts to secure critical industries, especially as geopolitical tensions and protectionist policies continue to reshape international trade. Officials emphasized that the fund will help local businesses maintain their competitive edge in emerging technologies while fostering long-term economic resilience. With this investment, South Korea reaffirms its commitment to innovation and industrial leadership, ensuring its technology-driven economy remains robust in the face of evolving global challenges.

National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning over the illegal distribution of the Knowit Insulin Syringe 40 IU 29G x 1/2, labeling the product substandard and falsified. The alert comes amid growing concerns over the circulation of medical devices that do not meet regulatory standards and pose serious health risks. NAFDAC explains that the Knowit syringe was originally approved for use with Lente animal insulins administered at a 40 IU/ml concentration, when both 40 IU/ml and 100 IU/ml versions were in circulation. However, with the discontinuation of animal insulins and the widespread adoption of human insulin standardized at 100 IU/ml, the 40 IU/ml syringe is now obsolete. Its continued use could lead to dangerous dosing errors, potentially resulting in life-threatening complications for diabetic patients. The agency further revealed that the product is being marketed under a falsified registration number (03-2933), as the original license expired in 2019. The distributor, Chivic Limited, is now under scrutiny as NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance efforts and remove the illegal product from the market. NAFDAC urges importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and consumers to exercise extreme caution. Authorities advise verifying the authenticity of all medical devices before use and to report any suspicious products or adverse events through official channels. Consumers can contact NAFDAC via its toll-free hotline at 0800-162-3322 or email sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng. This decisive action underscores the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring that only approved and safe medical products are available in the market.

In a bold move amid mounting trade tensions, Chinese authorities have announced a ban on all imports of gene sequencing machines produced by the U.S.-based Illumina. The decision, which takes effect immediately, targets advanced genetic sequencers vital for DNA and RNA analysis used in diagnostics and research. The measure follows a series of retaliatory actions between the two economic giants and comes as a response to recent U.S. tariff hikes. Chinese officials argue that the ban is a necessary counter-step against what they view as unfair trade practices, underscoring a broader strategy to protect national interests. Illumina, a leader in genetic sequencing technology, derives about 7% of its sales from the Chinese market, a segment that now faces significant uncertainty. Industry experts warn that the ban could disrupt ongoing research efforts and impact the broader medical equipment sector, adding to the volatile atmosphere in global high-tech and healthcare markets. As tensions continue to simmer between Washington and Beijing, both sides brace for further developments. The latest action reflects the increasingly complex interplay between trade policies and technological innovation, setting the stage for potential long-term shifts in international economic relations.   Photo credit: Bloomberg

A groundbreaking study released yesterday paints a stark picture of the future of global health. Researchers warn that a “monumental societal failure” to address unhealthy diets and lifestyles is driving obesity and overweight rates to alarming levels. According to the study, more than half of the world’s adults, and nearly one-third of children and young people could be affected by 2050, translating to over 3.8 billion adults and 746 million youths struggling with excess body weight. The report, which analyzed trends from 1990 to 2021 and used robust forecasting models to predict future outcomes, highlights a dramatic escalation in the obesity epidemic. The findings suggest that the current public health approaches have not only stalled progress but are also ill-equipped to reverse decades of rising obesity rates. The surge in overweight and obesity cases is expected to significantly increase the burden of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers, ultimately straining healthcare systems and economies worldwide. Experts involved in the study are calling for urgent, coordinated action. They stress the need for comprehensive public health strategies that promote healthier eating, encourage physical activity, and create environments that support overall well-being. Without decisive measures, the predicted trends could lead to devastating long-term health and economic consequences. As nations grapple with this impending crisis, the study serves as a clarion call to policymakers and public health leaders alike: reversing the trajectory of the obesity epidemic is not just a health imperative, it is a societal one. Published March 3, 2025 | The Lancet