Author: Lifestyle & Wellness Desk

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to include dedicated funding in the state’s annual budget to strengthen cancer awareness, early detection, and treatment programmes. He made the commitment on Tuesday in Abeokuta while receiving a delegation from the Cancer Awareness and Screening Team during the commissioning of a free breast screening centre. Governor Abiodun said the state government would partner with relevant organisations to expand cancer prevention and management initiatives, adding that financial support for such programmes would be prioritised. “The government cannot do it alone, but I assure you that we will provide the necessary support, including budgetary provisions, to sustain cancer prevention and treatment efforts,” he said. He described cancer as a disease that “knows no boundaries of status or wealth,” stressing that early detection remains key to saving lives. The governor also disclosed plans to integrate cancer screening into the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme to ensure wider access to healthcare for residents. He further appealed to corporate organisations to include cancer awareness and treatment support in their Corporate Social Responsibility programmes. The delegation included the wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma; the wife of the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Dr. Zainab Bagudu, who is also the President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control; the wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun; the General Manager of Roche Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Company; and Ogun State Commissioners for Health and Women Affairs and Social Development. Mrs. Uzodimma explained that the visit was part of a nationwide breast cancer awareness campaign in partnership with Roche Healthcare and the Ogun State Government. “We are working together to raise awareness, pay medical bills for cancer patients, and advocate for improved cancer care. We urge the state to incorporate cancer screening into its health insurance scheme and establish a dedicated Cancer Health Fund,” she said. Mrs. Abiodun commended Roche Healthcare for donating the Breast Screening Centre to Oba Ademola Hospital, Abeokuta, describing it as a significant step toward improving healthcare access in the state. Roche Healthcare’s General Manager, Dr. Ladipo Hammed, noted that the partnership, which aligns with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aims to strengthen national health systems and emphasised that early detection is crucial to reducing cancer-related deaths. Dr. Bagudu also called for the institutionalisation of cancer awareness and screening initiatives within Nigeria’s healthcare policies to ensure continuity and sustainability.

A humanitarian organisation, Anambra Women Union Incorporated, based in Chicago, USA, has launched a free medical outreach for women in Anambra State. The initiative was unveiled at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka, by the President of the Union, Lady Sophia Ekwensi-Ojukwu, who explained that the programme forms part of the organisation’s corporate social responsibility aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of less privileged women. Ekwensi-Ojukwu stated that the medical outreach would strengthen the state government’s efforts through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare to empower women across various sectors. Represented by Mrs. Blessing Nweke from the Ministry of Women Affairs, she said, “Health remains one of our top priorities, which is why we are offering these free services to vulnerable women in Anambra State. This effort also supports the government’s continuous campaign for healthy living.” She further revealed that beneficiaries were enrolled in the Anambra Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) scheme, with each participant’s annual premium of ₦12,000 fully covered by the organisation. “Our goal as a women’s body is to strengthen the capacity of the state government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, to ensure that Anambra women are empowered in all aspects of life,” she added. Ekwensi-Ojukwu commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, and the ASHIA management team for their dedication to improving the welfare of women in the state. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the gesture and pledged to share the knowledge gained during the exercise within their communities. The event also featured a breast self-examination demonstration and a health sensitisation lecture titled “Turning Awareness into Action to End Breast Cancer,” delivered by Prof. Chukwudi Okani, a consultant oncologist from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam. The outreach, conducted across the three senatorial districts of Anambra State, included breast cancer awareness campaigns, mammogram registrations, and health insurance enrolment for vulnerable women, in partnership with the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare.

The Abia State Disability Commission has unveiled plans to distribute free sunscreen lotions to persons with albinism across the state as part of its efforts to enhance their health, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and promote social inclusion. Chairman of the Commission, Mr. David Anyaele, disclosed this during a one-day medical sensitisation programme organised by the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), Abia State Chapter, at the School for the Blind, Afara, Umuahia. Themed “Meeting the Needs of Persons with Albinism through the Medical Model,” the event addressed the unique health and social challenges faced by persons with albinism (PWAs). Anyaele noted that the sunscreen initiative aligns with Governor Alex Otti’s broader commitment to improving the welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Abia State. Each participant, he said, would receive four packs of sunscreen lotion to protect their skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. “The commission will provide four packs of sunscreen lotion to each participant to help prevent sun-related skin damage and reduce the risk of cancer,” Anyaele said. “The AAN chairman will communicate a suitable date for the distribution, and transportation support will be provided for members attending the event.” He encouraged persons with albinism to take active steps in raising awareness about their condition and not rely solely on government interventions. Anyaele highlighted that prolonged exposure to sunlight often leads to skin cancer, vision problems, and reduced participation in education and daily life. He also acknowledged the economic and social barriers faced by many PWAs due to discrimination and limited employment opportunities. According to him, the Otti administration has trained all 17 Local Government Chairmen, Permanent Secretaries, and officials across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies on disability inclusion, the Abia State Disability Law, and disability budgeting. The Commission is also collaborating with health and education officers across the 17 LGAs to strengthen understanding of disability issues, with Ms. Ijeoma Okoronkwo representing the albinism cluster on the board. Anyaele further stated that the Commission has extended financial support to all disability clusters, including the AAN, to help them commemorate international disability awareness events. He commended the AAN for its leadership in organising the sensitisation programme and stressed the importance of continuous education to dispel myths and misconceptions about albinism. While decrying the ongoing stigma and discrimination faced by PWAs, Anyaele referenced incidents in some African countries, such as Tanzania, where individuals with albinism have been targeted in ritual-related attacks. He noted that in Nigeria, they continue to experience prejudice, bullying, and exclusion. The initiative, he said, demonstrates Abia State’s commitment to disability inclusion and public health. It highlights the importance of collaborative governance and advocacy in addressing the medical and social challenges faced by persons with albinism, while promoting equality, dignity, and access to care. Anyaele concluded by urging PWAs to take the lead in promoting self-awareness, advocating for their rights, and partnering with government and civil society to foster inclusion and protection.

The Plant Treatment Oasis Association of Nigeria, comprising professional biochemists, has urged the Federal Government to formally integrate herbal and alternative medicine into the national healthcare system to enhance public health and well-being. Speaking after the association’s 2025 conference in Abuja, its president, Olayemi Ikotun, emphasized that Nigeria could harness the vast medicinal potential of natural plant-based supplements, which have proven effective in treating various health conditions with minimal or no side effects. Ikotun noted that the association has conducted extensive research and developed natural medicinal products that have shown positive results in managing ailments such as fibroids, piles, and other chronic diseases. “We, as biochemistry practitioners, possess the capacity to address many of our nation’s healthcare needs. Our members have created highly potent and safe natural supplements from raw plant materials—effective alternatives without the harmful effects of synthetic drugs,” he said. He lamented the continued marginalization of traditional and alternative medicine despite its deep roots in Nigerian culture, stressing that formal government recognition would strengthen healthcare delivery across the country. Ikotun further explained that older generations thrived on herbal remedies that modern science can now refine through biochemistry and improved production techniques. He also called for stronger government policies to regulate, research, and incorporate herbal medicine into the broader health framework, adding that these remedies are affordable, accessible, and safe. The association’s conference, themed “Advancement of Natural Plant Supplement in Nigeria,” also featured the induction of new members and renewed commitment to research and innovation in natural medicine. Participants reaffirmed their dedication to providing scientifically supported and culturally relevant healthcare solutions rooted in Nigeria’s rich biodiversity.

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s healthcare and education sectors have voiced growing concern over the decline in professional ethics, discipline, and moral values among young nurses, urging a return to the core principles that define nursing as a noble and compassionate profession. Speaking at the second induction ceremony for Bachelor of Nursing Science graduates of Trinity University, Yaba, Lagos, the Acting Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), Alhaji Ndagi Alhassan, emphasized the need for renewed commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability among practitioners. Addressing the inductees, Alhassan underscored the importance of maintaining a professional image and conduct to earn patients’ trust and uphold the dignity of the nursing profession. “Nursing is not merely a career—it is a calling built on compassion, responsibility, and self-respect. Nurses must always reflect these noble values in their appearance, behaviour, and service. Today’s induction is both a celebration and a reminder that nurses are held to the highest moral and ethical standards,” he said. The ceremony marked the induction of 35 graduates into the nursing profession and featured goodwill messages from healthcare leaders, government representatives, and academics who all emphasized the importance of ethical integrity in nursing practice. Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Professor Clement Kolawole, reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to producing graduates who combine academic excellence with moral uprightness. He noted that Trinity University’s nursing programme has gained national recognition for its holistic approach that integrates clinical competence, intellectual development, and moral training. “As a faith-based institution, we understand that technical knowledge alone does not make a great nurse. At Trinity, we intentionally nurture purpose, discipline, and compassion. Our goal is to produce not just nurses, but leaders and changemakers who will transform the healthcare sector,” he said. He urged the newly inducted nurses to uphold professional ethics, serve humanity with empathy, and continue learning in an evolving healthcare landscape that values innovation and integrity. Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Transitioning from Student to Professional Nurse,” Vice-Chancellor of Achievers University and renowned nurse educator, Professor Omolola Irinloye, highlighted the rapid evolution of the nursing profession, with new global frameworks and standards introduced in recent years. She advised the graduates to embrace change with courage and adaptability, noting that success in nursing requires more than academic qualifications. According to her, “The key pillars for professional growth are seizing opportunities, building strong networks, and maintaining ties with your alma mater. Nigerian nurses are respected globally, and it is your duty to uphold that trust.” She added, “There are now more opportunities than ever—specialisations, leadership roles, global placements, and digital health innovations. But to benefit from them, you must stay proactive and engaged.” Also speaking, Commissioner IV at the Lagos State Health Service Commission, Dr. Ololade Fadipe, urged the graduates to embrace Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, which emphasizes compassion, respect, and a healing presence. She cautioned that technical expertise alone is not enough, stressing the importance of empathy, teamwork, and continuous self-improvement. Similarly, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, Dr. Faosat Animashaun, described the induction as a transition from academic learning to professional responsibility. She reminded the new nurses that integrity and accountability remain the foundation of their calling. “Use your licence with pride and responsibility. Every patient you encounter deserves respect and care,” she advised. In his welcome address, Trinity University Registrar, Mr. David Olubukola Oyejide, said the institution is proud to be contributing to Nigeria’s pool of qualified healthcare professionals. He noted that the university’s partnerships with hospitals and medical centres have helped students acquire both theoretical and hands-on experience. He commended the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria for maintaining high professional standards and noted that the induction of the second cohort of graduates reflects Trinity University’s steady progress in advancing health education and national development. “These graduates are not only equipped to deliver quality healthcare but also to lead, advocate, and make a lasting impact in their communities,” he said.

Nottingham Forest have named Sean Dyche as their new head coach on a contract running until 2027, the Premier League club confirmed on Tuesday. The 54-year-old former Burnley and Everton manager replaces Ange Postecoglou, who was dismissed on Saturday after just 40 days in charge at the City Ground. Dyche, who began his career at Forest under legendary manager Brian Clough, becomes the club’s third manager this season and his first role since leaving Everton earlier this year. “A respected and experienced Premier League manager, Dyche brings the perfect blend of character, tactical knowledge, and proven success to guide the club through its next chapter,” the club said in a statement. Dyche’s first match in charge will be Thursday’s Europa League fixture at home against Porto. Postecoglou’s departure came shortly after Saturday’s 3-0 defeat to Chelsea, making him the shortest-serving permanent manager in Premier League history. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis ended the Australian’s tenure after the team failed to secure a win in their opening eight league games. Postecoglou had been appointed following the sacking of Nuno Espirito Santo in September, who left after a breakdown in his relationship with the club owner. Currently, Forest sit in the Premier League relegation zone with just five points from eight matches, despite over £100 million ($134 million) being invested in the squad during the summer transfer window.

Nigeria’s Net Domestic Credit (NDC) declined by 12.8% year-on-year in August 2025, standing at ₦98.97 trillion, according to the latest money and credit statistics from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). In August 2025, bank credit to the government was ₦23.133 trillion, while credit to the private sector reached ₦75.843 trillion, bringing total NDC to ₦98.97 trillion. In comparison, during the same period in 2024, credit to the government was ₦39.391 trillion, and private sector credit was ₦74.072 trillion, resulting in a total NDC of ₦113.463 trillion. On a monthly trend, NDC was ₦102.406 trillion in January 2025 and grew slightly by 0.9% to ₦103.369 trillion in February. However, in March, it dropped sharply by 34% to ₦68.177 trillion. In the second quarter of 2025, NDC rose by 49.6% to ₦102.002 trillion in April, declined by 1.03% to ₦100.955 trillion in May, and further dropped by 3.13% to ₦97.787 trillion in June. Although data for July was unavailable, August recorded a slight increase of 1.2%. Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), welcomed the Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC) decision to lower the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), describing it as a “timely and necessary intervention.” He noted that the combination of a reduced MPR and lower Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) would enhance banks’ lending capacity, ease borrowing costs, support business growth, and stimulate job creation. However, he cautioned that monetary policy alone would not suffice, stressing that “fiscal authorities must prioritise infrastructure development, strengthen regulatory institutions, and maintain fiscal discipline to promote macroeconomic stability and investor confidence.” Also commenting, David Adonri, Executive Vice Chairman at HighCap Securities Limited, warned that the persistent decline in credit could hinder business financing amid inflationary pressures, foreign exchange challenges, and weak consumer demand. He added that Nigeria’s move aligns with a broader trend across Africa, as several central banks begin to ease monetary policy in response to moderating inflation. Recently, Ghana cut its policy rate by 350 basis points to 21.5%, while Kenya lowered its benchmark rate to 9.5% in mid-August. Despite this, Nigeria’s MPR remains among the highest on the continent, reflecting ongoing inflationary concerns.

More than 46,842 children aged between nine months and 14 years have been vaccinated against Measles-Rubella in Makurdi Local Government Area within the first two days of the ongoing 10-day Integrated Immunisation Campaign, which began on October 18. According to the Makurdi Local Government Immunisation Officer, Andrew Tartenger, the exercise will run until October 27, with two additional days set aside for mop-up activities. Tartenger revealed that within the same period, over 47,305 children aged zero to 59 months also received the Novel Oral Polio Vaccine Type 2 (nOPV2). He added that the council received 228,980 doses of the Measles-Rubella vaccine, which were distributed across the 11 council wards. Commending parents and caregivers for their impressive turnout, Tartenger attributed the success to the massive mobilisation and sensitisation efforts carried out before the campaign began. “The acceptance of the vaccines has been encouraging. With the level of turnout, we are confident of meeting and possibly surpassing our target,” he stated. At the Makurdi Ultra Modern International Market, which currently shelters internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Yelewata in Guma LGA, over 766 children were vaccinated within the first three days. Supervisor of the vaccination post at the camp, Benedicta Aboh, said, “We started on Saturday and immunised 250 children. On Sunday, we had 251, and by Monday, 264. The turnout is impressive, and there has been no resistance.” Similarly, the Ward Focal Person for Ankpa/Wadata Ward, Grace Ande, noted that community engagement strategies helped eliminate past resistance to immunisation in Wadata. “We started mobilisation early, and religious leaders were key in spreading the message, especially in mosques,” she said. “Our projected target is 40,911 children, and we’re confident we will exceed it. We’re also visiting schools and worship centres to ensure no child is left out.” She emphasised the significance of the campaign, stating, “This is the first time Rubella vaccination is being administered in Benue, and its benefits are enormous. I encourage all parents to bring out their children.” The Executive Secretary of the Benue State Primary Health Care Board, Mrs. Grace Wende, represented by the State Immunisation Officer, Innocent Adega, described the programme as an integrated immunisation campaign covering both Measles-Rubella and routine immunisations. Adega disclosed that the state deployed 1,110 fixed teams and 1,274 house-to-house teams across the 23 LGAs to ensure full coverage. In total, 2.7 million doses of Measles-Rubella vaccines and 2.3 million doses of Oral Polio Vaccines were received for the exercise across Benue State. A mother, Mrs. Hadisa Adamu, who brought her baby for immunisation at Wadata Primary Health Centre, expressed gratitude to UNICEF, the Federal Government, and other partners for supporting the programme. “We’ve been told about the dangers of Rubella, including the risk of giving birth to children with health challenges,” she said. “That’s why we are ensuring every child within the age bracket is vaccinated. We appreciate everyone who made this possible.”

The FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile concluded with Morocco making history as champions after a 2–0 victory over Argentina, powered by a stunning brace from teenage star Mohamed Zabiri. This triumph marks Morocco’s first-ever U-20 World Cup title, making them only the second African nation—after Ghana in 2009—to lift the trophy. The North Africans enjoyed an impressive campaign, winning all their matches except a narrow loss to Mexico in the group stage. Below is the complete list of award recipients from the tournament: Othmane Maamma (Morocco) – Golden Ball (Best Player of the Tournament) Yassir Zabiri (Morocco) – Silver Ball (Second Best Player) Milton Delgado (Argentina) – Bronze Ball (Third Best Player) Benjamin Cremaschi (USA) – Golden Boot (Top Scorer, 5 goals) Neyser Villareal (Colombia) – Silver Boot (Second Highest Scorer, 5 goals) Lucas Michal (France) – Bronze Boot (Third Highest Scorer, 4 goals) Santino Barbi (Argentina) – Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper, 4 goals conceded in 7 matches) USA – Fair Play Award (Outstanding Sportsmanship and Discipline)

U.S. President Donald Trump said Sunday that the ceasefire in Gaza remains in effect, despite a series of Israeli airstrikes following accusations that Hamas violated the truce. Israel launched dozens of strikes on Hamas targets in southern Gaza after alleging that its troops were attacked in what it called a “clear breach” of the nine-day-old ceasefire. When asked by reporters if the truce was still in place, Trump replied, “Yeah, it is.” The U.S. president, who helped mediate the agreement, suggested that any ceasefire violations were carried out by “rebels within” rather than Hamas leadership. “We want to make sure it’s peaceful with Hamas,” Trump said. “It’ll be handled firmly but properly.” Gaza’s civil defense agency reported that at least 45 people were killed across the territory in the strikes, a figure confirmed by four local hospitals. The Israeli military said it was verifying reports of casualties. The army stated it had “renewed enforcement of the ceasefire” but warned it would respond firmly to any violations. Hamas denied targeting Israeli forces, accusing Israel of creating “false pretexts” to restart hostilities. According to a security official, Israel has also paused the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, citing the alleged ceasefire violations. The ceasefire, which took effect on October 10, ended more than two years of intense conflict between Israel and Hamas. It included terms for hostage and prisoner exchanges and a roadmap for Gaza’s reconstruction, though its implementation has faced challenges. Israel confirmed that two of its soldiers were killed in clashes in Rafah, prompting retaliatory airstrikes and artillery fire. Witnesses in Gaza said fighting resumed in the city, with one resident describing the situation as “as if the war has returned anew.” Images from central Gaza showed residents fleeing bombardments and wounded civilians arriving at hospitals. Israel’s defense minister warned Hamas would “pay a heavy price for every attack,” while Hamas reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire, accusing Israel of violating the deal. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance urged Gulf nations to help build a “security framework” ensuring Hamas’s disarmament — a key component of Trump’s peace plan. Under the arrangement, Israeli forces have withdrawn from parts of Gaza but still control about half the territory, including its borders. Hamas has released 20 hostages and is returning the bodies of those who died, while Israel has handed over 15 Palestinian bodies, bringing the total to 150. The war, which began after Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, has killed more than 68,000 people in Gaza, according to the territory’s health ministry — figures the United Nations considers credible. Over half of the victims are women and children. In Israel, 1,221 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the Hamas attack, according to official figures.