“Reputation is a transactional currency.” – Mazi Sam I. Ohuabunwa
In branding, just as in selling, people buy you before the product. The salesman who is selling the product is a complete product who must be outstanding at all times. Do your best to maintain a great reputation. A good name is priceless. You can’t talk about building a good personal brand without talking about reputation. Reputation opens doors.
Your brand is as good as you
In Aristotle’s Three Elements of Persuasion – Ethos, Pathos, and Logos – the beginning point is Ethos, which expresses the importance of character, integrity, and ethics. Persuasion, in any context, should stand on the strong foundation of a great reputation of the person behind the persuasion.
Persuasion should have an element of Ethos, which means, ethics and character; Pathos, which means emotional appeal and empathy; and Logos, which means logic and facts. Aristotle’s elements of persuasion can be applied in leadership and management, sales and marketing, and several aspects of life.
Bringing the elements of persuasion to our discussion, we will therefore conclude that your brand is as good as You. The way you are is the way your brand will be perceived. A lion will always give birth to a lion. Something must be wrong when a lion gives birth to a goat! What you are must be consistent with your brand. You and your brand are one. Therefore, before building a brand, build a reputation!
The higher your reputation, the higher your worth
There are brands people identify with over the years because they have proved that they can be trusted. This status continues to give them enviable brand equity.
In personal branding, reputation determines your worth. The higher your reputation, the higher your worth. As a salesman, as a professional, focus on building a great reputation. When you build a desirable reputation, other things will follow naturally. People cluster around men and women they can trust. Your success begins with the name you have built for yourself.
I have several authorities I can call mentors because they are people of great character. Their reputation quotient is high and I go to them to seek counsel when I want to make important decisions. These individuals have continued to be relevant in their industries because of the level of reputation they have built overtime. People like to identify with them anywhere their names are mentioned. Some of them have led their professional associations nationwide. Some of them have contributed immensely in the society by way of social investment, mentorship, and advocacy.
Keep your promise
There’s no better reputation than when people know that you keep your promise. Repeat customers is about promise kept and promise kept is about reputation. Don’t say what you can’t do. It is better you don’t promise and later deliver, than to promise and don’t keep to your promises.
Failed promises kill brands! Keep doing your best to get better. Improve in knowledge. Be innovative and keep discovering new ways to delight your target audience. Personal branding is something you continue to get better at.
Your lifestyle matters
In personal branding, everything you do counts. The individual building a personal brand must be careful about his private and public life. He must be seen to be the same person in private and in public life. This is a way onlookers appraise the reputation of the personal brand.
Choices and actions can make or mar a personal brand. We have seen this happen in many cases. Many individuals have gone down because of their private lives that affected their personal brands.
How do you want to be seen? What word do you want people to use when they see or hear about you? As you work on your personal brand, be mindful of the brand you want to be known as. Work on Yourself to be the person You admire.
The Selling Champion Consulting Annual Masterclass
South-East / South-South Edition holds in Enugu on Sat 3rd August, 2024.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall brain health, impacting cognitive function, mood, and mental well-being.
Essential nutrients for brain health
Omega-3 Fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3s are vital for brain structure and function. They support cognitive processes and have anti-inflammatory properties that protect brain cells.
Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, found in fruits and vegetables, help combat oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
B Vitamins: B6, B12, and folic acid are essential for brain health. They aid in the production of neurotransmitters and support cognitive functions and emotional regulation. Leafy greens, legumes, and whole grains are good sources.
Amino acids: These are the building blocks of neurotransmitters, which are crucial for communication between brain cells. Foods rich in protein, such as meat, dairy, and legumes, provide essential amino acids.
Glucose: The brain’s primary energy source. Stable blood sugar levels, supported by complex carbohydrates from whole grains and vegetables, ensure a consistent supply of energy to the brain.
Benefits of proper nutrition for the brain
Enhanced cognitive function: Nutrients like omega-3s and antioxidants improve memory, learning, and overall cognitive performance.
Mood regulation: Balanced nutrition supports the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood and prevent depression and anxiety.
Reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases: A diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods can reduce the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Improved concentration and mental clarity: Proper nutrition ensures a steady supply of energy to the brain, enhancing focus and reducing mental fatigue.
Practical tips for a brain-healthy diet
Incorporate fatty fish: Aim to eat fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or sardines at least twice a week.
Eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables: Ensure a diverse intake of antioxidants by consuming a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables daily.
Choose whole grains: Opt for whole grains over refined grains to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can impair cognitive function, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Limit processed foods: Minimise intake of foods high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives, which can negatively impact brain health.
Proper nutrition is fundamental for maintaining brain health throughout life, supporting everything from daily cognitive functions to long-term mental well-being. By prioritizing a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, you can significantly enhance brain health and overall quality of life.
Foods harmful to brain health
Certain foods can negatively impact brain health, especially when consumed in excess or regularly. Here are some foods considered harmful to the brain:
Sugary drinks
Soft drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices: High in sugar, these can lead to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, increasing the risk of brain-related diseases. Excessive sugar intake can also impair memory and learning abilities.
Refined carbohydrates
White bread, pastries, and processed snacks: These foods have a high glycemic index and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, potentially leading to cognitive impairment and an increased risk of dementia.
Trans fats
Margarine, frosting, and fried foods: Trans fats can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, damaging brain cells and increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline.
Highly processed foods
Fast food, ready meals, and packaged snacks: Often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and salt, these foods can negatively affect brain health. They may cause inflammation and disrupt the brain’s reward system, leading to overeating and weight gain.
Aspartame
Diet sodas and sugar-free products: This artificial sweetener can have neurotoxic effects, potentially leading to headaches, mood swings, and impaired learning.
Alcohol
Excessive alcohol consumption: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to brain shrinkage, disrupted neurotransmitter function, and an increased risk of dementia. Even moderate alcohol consumption can impair cognitive function and memory over time.
Foods high in saturated fats
red meat, butter, and cheese: High levels of saturated fats can negatively impact cognitive function by increasing cholesterol levels and promoting inflammation.
Foods containing high levels of mercury
Certain fish (e.g., shark, swordfish, king mackerel): Mercury is a neurotoxin that can accumulate in the brain and impair cognitive function and development, particularly in children and pregnant women.
Excess salt
Processed and fast foods: High salt intake can lead to hypertension, restricting blood flow to the brain and increasing the risk of cognitive decline and stroke.
Nitrates and nitrites
Processed meats (e.g., sausages, hot dogs, bacon): These chemicals can lead to the formation of harmful compounds in the body, potentially contributing to oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
By being mindful of your diet and avoiding these harmful foods, you can support your brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline and other brain-related issues.
Mrs Chima Ejimofor is the lead partner of Infinite Health Consult and is available for the purchase of FLP high-quality nutritional supplements, health talks, and wellness seminars. She is based in Lagos, Nigeria. Telephone/WhatsApp: 07033179632, Email: infinitehealthconsult@gmail.com
Professor Babatunde Lawal Salako, the immediate past director general of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), recently concluded his two terms, spanning eight years, at the institute. In this exclusive interview, the professor of Nephrology and former provost at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, shares with Temitope Obayendo the highlights and defining moments of his stewardship. Excerpts:
Congratulations on completing your second tenure as NIMR director general. Reflecting on your administration, how would you describe the journey so far?
Thank you. On the 25 July, 2016, two days after my birthday, my appointment as the director general of NIMR was announced. I resumed temporarily on 9 August because I was the provost of the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan at the time. I needed to oversee the election of a new provost before I could fully take on my role at NIMR. So, for one month, from August to September, I was acting as both provost and DG of NIMR. I fully resumed as DG on 9 September.
The first thing I did was have all departments and units present their current situation, including their challenges and potential solutions. We compiled this into a comprehensive needs assessment document. We concluded that the first step was to create a strategic plan for the institution. In 2016, we organised a national retreat, which led to the creation of our strategic plan for 2016-2021. The plan focused on research development, especially translational research, funding, creating a conducive research environment, and fostering national and international collaborations. Private sector participation in research was also a key focus.
We held bi-annual monitoring and evaluation sessions, with mid-year and end-of-year evaluations conducted during annual retreats. This approach helped staff understand the importance of setting targets, which significantly improved the working environment. The initial strategic plan ended in 2022, so we developed a new plan for 2022-2026, which we are currently working on.
Looking back at your tenure, what would you identify as your most important milestone at the institute?
It’s challenging to single out one achievement as the most important, but if I must choose, it would be establishing adjunct positions for researchers. This initiative allowed our researchers to work in universities, supervise, teach, and examine students. They could also be promoted to professorships. This innovation helped retain researchers who aspired to academic careers similar to those in universities.
Before this, many researchers left NIMR for university positions. By creating MOUs and adjunct positions with Nigerian universities, we were able to promote our first set of five professors in 2018, significantly boosting the research environment and providing hope for younger researchers.
This initiative drastically reduced internal brain drain, as new PhDs and MPhils stayed, seeing a clear path for career advancement. Additionally, university adjuncts also held research positions at NIMR, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. This collaboration led to increased networking, more grant opportunities, and a higher number of publications, enhancing NIMR’s visibility both nationally and internationally.
Before now, we’ve heard about your contributions to research. How has medical research improved healthcare in Nigeria today?
Medical research improves healthcare in numerous ways. Innovations and discoveries lead to new health solutions and product development, which can spur the growth of start-up companies, providing employment and economic benefits. Health research brings new knowledge and solutions to diseases. For instance, the COVID-19 vaccines, developed through health research, helped control the pandemic, revitalising economies worldwide.
Despite the immense benefits, health research in Nigeria is underfunded. Adequate funding could train researchers, support research, foster innovation, and address specific health challenges unique to Nigeria. For example, research could provide lasting solutions to endemic diseases like Lassa fever, which we currently address with a reactive, rather than proactive, approach.
Currently, we are dealing with an outbreak of cholera. What has NIMR done in response to this?
NIMR is actively supporting surveillance and developing a point-of-care instrument to diagnose cholera, using body fluids and water. Cholera often stems from water and food contamination, and poor hygiene. Our diagnostic tool, which is 80 per cent complete, aims to detect cholera quickly and cost-effectively, similar to a dipstick urine test. This tool will be locally produced, affordable, and accessible, allowing for early detection and prevention of epidemics.
We are also conducting surveillance of wastewater in canals and around hospitals to detect potential contamination sources. Cholera outbreaks often follow heavy rains and floods that mix with drinkable water. Our goal is to identify and mitigate these risks early.
Having spent eight years at NIMR, what are your recommendations for the new DG to move the institution forward?
My first recommendation is to maintain an open-door policy. Accessibility fosters transparency and prevents misinformation. Engaging with unions, individuals, senior and junior staff, and treating everyone with respect is crucial.
A respectful and inclusive environment motivates the workforce and enhances productivity. I see that as one of the secrets behind the success of this administration. We talked to the unions, we talked to individuals, we talked to seniors, we talked to juniors, and we treated everybody with respect, because that’s very important.
No matter the innovations or resources brought to the institution, success depends on a motivated and prepared workforce. Treating staff with respect ensures mutual respect and cooperation, which is essential for achieving institutional goals.
As a successful director general, who has served two terms, do you have any regrets?
I pride myself on being “Mr No Regrets.” I believe in taking decisions and accepting responsibility for their outcomes. However, if I must mention something, it would be the superficial oversight that sometimes costs the institution unnecessary expenses. While oversight is necessary, it should be altruistic and genuinely aimed at improving the institution, not hindering its progress.
There were moments of frustration when it felt like genuine efforts to help the system were met with obstacles. But overall, I have no regrets and believe in taking responsibility for my actions and moving forward.
You have achieved so much at NIMR and raised the bar. Where do you see NIMR in the next five years?
In five years, I envision NIMR as a hub for scientists seeking knowledge, skills, and research funding. By then, we should have established a funding agency that supports extensive research. NIMR will be akin to the US National Institutes of Health, a center for learning, research funding, and innovation.
We will see many policy supports, treatment guidelines, and discoveries arising from our research. NIMR will continue to be a beacon of scientific excellence, contributing significantly to healthcare advancements in Nigeria and beyond.
What is your next step after leaving NIMR?
I was the provost at the College of Medicine, and I still have some years left in the system. I believe my job is waiting for me, so I will continue working for the government and contributing to medical research and education.
Castor seeds are obtained from the castor plant, which is scientifically known as Ricinus communis Linn (Fam. Euphorbiaceae). Though the plant originated from East Africa, the Indian subcontinent and the Mediterranean Sea are currently the two extensive sources of the castor plant. The plant is called cika-gidaa in Hausa, ogili ugba or ogili isi in Igbo and ilara in Yoruba. Other names of the plant include African coffee tree, Castorbean, Castor Bean, Castor Bean Plant, Castor Oil, Castor Oil Plant, Castor Seed, Ricin, Ricinus communis, Tangantangan Oil Plant, Wonder Tree.
Constituents: Castor seeds are found to be rich in proteins, carbohydrates and calcium. They also contain oleic acids, ricinoleic acids and linoleic acids, among other fatty acids, that are extremely beneficial for a person’s health.
Preparations: The plant castor can be available as the seed, oil or paste.
Pharmacological actions and medicinal uses: The major benefits of castor oil are relief of muscle and joint problems like rheumatism and arthritis, as well as relief of menstrual pain. The ricinoleic acid found in castor seeds eases the flow of menstruation and relieves the extreme pain along with the cramps. The extreme levels of pain caused by arthritis can be alleviated considerably by regularly massaging castor seed oil onto the affected areas.
Application of castor seed oil is said to help in fighting acne, stretch marks, dryness and sunburn, improving skin tone and texture among other things; thus its use as an ingredient for skin creams used in treating stretch marks all over the world. Castor seed oil is a great remedy for bruises and wounds and much more. This may be because it is effective against yeast and fungal infections, warts and many more. The high concentration of fatty acids in castor seed oil can penetrate the skin with ease, providing quick relief from dryness and cracked skin, thus making it a great skin moisturizer.
Castor seed oil enhances hair growth, is a remedy for treating split ends and controlling hair breakage problem, and can also help enhance the thickness of the eyelashes.
Castor oil is used as a laxative for constipation, to start labour in pregnancy, and to start the flow of breast milk. Castor seeds can be used to stimulate the lactation process. Castor seeds contain trace amounts of toxic protein, ricin, which when used in very small dosages, can be tremendously effective for birth control. It is said that castor oil may be a great ingredient for spermicidal lotions, gels, and creams.
Some people apply castor seed paste to the skin as a poultice for inflammatory skin disorders, boils, carbuncles, pockets of infection (abscesses), inflammation of the middle ear, and migraine headaches. Castor oil is used topically to soften skin, bunions and corns, to dissolve cysts, growths and warts. Castor oil is used in the eyes to soothe membranes irritated by dust or other materials.
Adverse effects: Excessive use of castor seed oil during pregnancy can lead to abortion. In some people, castor oil can cause stomach discomfort, cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration and faintness, liver, kidney and pancreas damage, and death. Excessive use of castor oil on the skin can turn skin red.
Economic uses and potentials: When pressed, castor seeds yield an oil that can be transformed into biodiesel, a renewable energy source. In manufacturing, castor seeds are used to make paints, varnishes, and lubricating oils. Ricin from the hull of the castor seed has been tested as a chemical warfare agent. In 2018, a tonne of castor seed cost ₦180,000.00. Castor oil has potentials in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, energy and paint industry.
By Pharm. Ngozika Okoye MSc, MPH, FPCPharm
(Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency)
Email: ngozikaokoye@yahoo.com
Reference
Fordous H. (2020). Health Benefits of Castor Seed And Its Side Effects. Lybrate. Available at: https://www.lybrate.com › Topics. Accessed July 10, 2024.
A cross-section of pregnant women during ante-natal clinic at the Iya Seun Trado Medical Home, Ijebu East, Ogun State.
In Ogun State, inadequate modern healthcare facilities lead many pregnant women to choose traditional birth homes. In this report, Oladejo Adebayo, highlights this trend in Sagamu and Ijebu East, where traditional birth attendants (TBAs) are preferred due to government’s neglect of rural primary healthcare, despite the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
On a sunny afternoon on 24 February, 2022, Omobolanle Olayinka, a 35-year-old trader who resides at Ayepe Road, Sagamu Local Government Area (LGA), Ogun State, began experiencing severe stomach discomfort. Since she was five months pregnant, she hurried to Agura Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Sagamu, where she had registered for antenatal care services. Upon arrival, she encountered only one staff member, who was visibly overwhelmed with her workload as she attended to several patients simultaneously.
According to Olayinka, the healthcare official who is a CHEW (community Health Extension Worker) advised her to get a pregnancy scan. After the scan, she was given two sachets of Ampiclox and was told to take them at home. Olayinka took the medication around 2 p.m. and rested for a few hours.
However, by 6 p.m., her discomfort returned, and her water broke shortly thereafter. She was rushed back to the health centre, where the staff member, still overwhelmed with work, asked for another scan. This time, she informed Olayinka that the baby was struggling for survival, but there was nothing she could do.
Olayinka was then referred to Divine Hospital, a private hospital in the area. Upon arrival, the doctor there said the medication given to her was inappropriate and that she should have received better care earlier. Sadly, she lost the pregnancy.
Another woman, Mrs Yusuf Olayinka, a resident of Alagbon Mefa, Sagamu, faced a similar ordeal. Over two years ago, she lost her first child four months before delivery. It took her 20 months to conceive again. It was such a traumatic experience that her husband had to insist on finding a reputable traditional birth home for her.
“The experience discouraged me from using any PHC. I have since vowed that I will never step foot in a PHC again. In addition, my husband and his parents have warned me against using a PHC again,” she said.
After months of frantic search, Mrs Olayinka learned about the Olorun Ayo Spiritual Birth Home from a neighbour. In February 2024, she finally became pregnant.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines primary healthcare as the cornerstone of a robust health system, covering health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. Yet, in rural areas in Ogun State, this promise falls short. Many communities lack primary healthcare centres (PHCs) entirely, and existing ones are often inaccessible or poorly equipped.
Consequently, women often with the support of their husbands are increasingly turning to traditional birth attendants (TBAs), leading to an increase in concerns about safety and complications during childbirth.
A cross-section of pregnant women during ante-natal session at the Olorun Ayo Spiritual Maternity Home, Sagamu, Ogun State.
Why women opt for traditional birth attendants over hospitals
According to a 2019 WHO-led study, researchers from Ghana, Guinea, Myanmar, and Nigeria found that out of 2,016 women directly observed, 838 (41.6 percent) experienced physical or verbal abuse during or after childbirth in health facilities. Additionally, 945 (35.4 per cent) of 2,672 surveyed women experienced physical or verbal abuse, stigma, or discrimination. These findings highlight some of the systemic issues in healthcare facilities that contribute to women seeking alternative care options
Given the challenges with formal healthcare facilities in several Ogun communities visited, many women are turning to TBAs for deliveries. Reports of neglect and mistreatment in hospitals contribute to this shift.
Mrs Odunayo Olatunberu, a 42-year-old businesswoman from Itusokun Community, Sagamu LGA, chose a TBA for the delivery of her second child after a series of disappointing experiences with hospitals. She faced frequent strikes and unresponsive staff at healthcare centres in the course of her pregnancy, which heightened her anxiety about potential complications.
“Feeling overwhelmed and anxious, I was ready to abandon hospitals altogether,” Olatunberu said.
“That’s when my mother-in-law recommended Olorun Ayo Spiritual Maternity Home. Now, with my second child on the way, I’m confident in this decision.”
Similarly, 27-year-old trader, Balikis Adeyinka from Alagbon Mefa, Sagamu LGA, opted for the same spiritual home as others during her first pregnancy based on her father-in-law’s warnings about complications at a nearby healthcare centre.
“Besides, my mother-in-law is a friend to the matron. As a first-time mother, I found the support and experience satisfactory during my delivery which happened at midnight.
“I registered my second pregnancy here (with the TBA) while also using a private hospital. However, when I went into labour during a scan appointment at the private hospital, despite being attended to, I lost the baby. This is now my third pregnancy, and I’ve decided to stick with this TBA exclusively,” she said.
Omolade Fasunde, who delivered her first child on 6 May, 2024, at Iya Seun Trado Medical Home in Onipetesi Village, Ijebu East LGA, chose the traditional clinic due to negative testimonies about PHCs in the area. As a first-time mother, she preferred to avoid complications.
Mrs Damilola Joseph, a 25-year-old artisan originally from Togo and now living with her husband in Onipetesi Village, said she chose the TBA because it was the popular choice in the area.
“A lot of people in the community encouraged us to come here when I conceived, and my husband agreed. This is my second pregnancy; I delivered my first at a similar TBA in Ayegbami Village. I’m currently nine months pregnant, and since I started using this place, I have no regrets and no issues with their services. Financially, we are not pressured; we pay what we can afford either before or after delivery,” she said.
Mrs Kehinde Raji, a middle-aged woman who has lived in Onipetesi for over 15 years, applauded Iya Seun Trado Medical Home for offering trust and comfort, qualities she felt were lacking in PHCs. She delivered all her children at the traditional home, including her 12-year-old twins, and plans for her grandchildren to be born there as well.
As indicated from the narratives of women above, our correspondent during the investigation observed that many women’s decisions regarding childbirth were significantly influenced by their husbands. This trend was seen across various communities where husbands often play a crucial role in deciding whether their wives should opt for TBAs over modern healthcare facilities.
Mrs Rashidat Adedayo, chairperson of Ogun State TBAs, Ijebu East Branch, and founder of Iya Seun Trado Medical Clinic, said that many husbands bring their wives to the clinic and ensure they follow health advice, adding that majority of women have their husbands’ consent and, more often than not, directive.
Damilola Joseph shared her experience thus, “When I conceived, many in our community recommended this place, and my husband sanctioned it. This is my second pregnancy; the first was delivered at a similar Traditional Birth Home recommended by my husband.”
Omolade Fasunde, 18, delivered her first child at Iya Seun Traditional Clinic, Onipetesi. She said, “My husband insisted I stay home without working while he focused on farming. So, when it was time to register at a clinic, it was his decision as well,” she explained.
18-Year Old Omolade Fasunde (right), with Mrs Rashidat Adedayo, founder, Iya Seun Trado Medical Clinic, after the delivery of her first child.
According to Omobolanle Olayinka, the experience of poor medical attention she had at Agura PHC in Sagamu, which made her to lose her first pregnancy discouraged her from using a PHC again.
“I have since vowed that I will never visit any PHC again. In addition, my husband and his parents have warned me against using the PHC again,” she said.
In a chat with this correspondet, Mr Michael Ewenje, an elder in Onipetesi Village said that most women in the village do not work, relying instead on their husbands for financial support.
“We have no other place to deliver our babies apart from Iya Seun Traditional Clinic,” he lamented, citing the difficulty of accessing the nearest primary healthcare centre due to bad roads.
Alfa Abdulwaheed Tewogbade, who is a blacksmith and farmer in Onipetesi said, “We had all our six children delivered by the TBA. She is a lifesaver for our community, providing what the government could not.”
However, Mrs Bolanle Bushirat Adelani, a nurse in Sagamu LGA, expressed concern about how women’s healthcare choices are often considered insignificant by their spouses. She said, “Spousal inequality is prevalent here and troubling, especially among women who live close to their in-laws. Their husbands often assert authority, deciding healthcare choices for their wives even if they are not okay with it.”
How poor investment in primary healthcare enables TBAs business
The Files of the 7 registered pregnant women at Gbamu Gbamu PHC.
A report by the JDPC, Ijebu Ode, reveals a troubling trend of budgetary neglect for PHCs in Ogun State. Funding allocated to improve maternal health outcomes prioritises secondary and tertiary facilities in urban areas, leaving rural PHCs struggling with pre-existing challenges. This lack of investment compounds existing issues with primary healthcare services, thereby jeopardising maternal health outcomes in these underserved communities.
Torn net of Gbamu Gbamu PHC
Although Ogun State allocated a significant portion, N51.5bn, of its 2023 budget for health expenditures, the distribution across healthcare entities raises concerns. Funds were directed towards the ministry of health, the health insurance agency, and teaching hospitals, while the critical role of PHCs in ensuring accessible maternal healthcare appears under-resourced.
Of the Ogun State Health expenditure budget for 2023 N51,533,917,617.88, ministry of health got N9,306,845,783; the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency got N890,279,856; Ogun State Primary Health Care Development Board, N15,230,879,396; Preparedness & Response Project N38,143,990; Ogun State Road Safety Advisory Council (ministry of health) N24,788,134; Olabisi Onabanjo UniversityTeaching Hospital N10,605,685; Ogun State Hospitals Management Board, N7,869,287; State Hospital, Sokenu, Abeokuta, N1,932,561,992; State Hospital, Ijebu Ode N1,329,798,828; State Hospital Ota N1,193,828,896; State Hospital, Ilaro, N606,209,050; State Hospital, Isara, N585,429,679; State Hospital, Ifo, N698,388,983; Ogun State Alternative Medicine Board, N361,166,941; and the College of Health Technology, Ilese, got N860,622,213
In spite of the significant investment in the Ogun State Primary Healthcare Development Board, a lot of gaps still exist in healthcare services in the state. Findings from Gbamugbamu, Onipetesi, Agboro, and Ojelana communities in Ijebu East LGA reveal a disturbing reality.
Local healthcare centres are in a deplorable state, suffering from failing infrastructure, insufficient equipment, understaffing, and a lack of basic necessities like road, power and proper maintenance. These conditions render them unsuitable for providing adequate maternal healthcare services.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers in these communities are at the receiving end. They narrated to this reporter the challenge of traveling long distances on dusty and poor roads to access basic healthcare in the area.
Patients sleeping on makeshift mattresses at the Ojelana PHC
A resident of Ojelana community, locally known as ‘Olori Odo’ expressed concerns about health emergencies at Ojelana PHC in the night. He noted that the health facility often refers patients to Ogbere, approximately five kilometres away, along a very bad road.
A visit to Gbamugbamu PHC in Ijebu East LGA of Ogun State further reveals the harsh reality of healthcare neglect in rural communities. Torn windows, broken furniture, and a thick layer of dust covering medical equipment shows that the facility is in dire need of repair and resources. Gbamugbamu community is situated within a government forest reserve area and is predominantly inhabited by farmers. The health facility is surrounded by bushes and a few houses, with access via a dusty and rough road.
The only staff available, Mrs Fatimoh Jimoh, a CHEW, lamented the lack of patronage from residents. According to Jimoh, who is nursing a few months old baby herself, “We conduct deliveries here, but many people prefer not to use this facility. They often register just for the sake of it and later opt for delivery at nearby TBAs or even at home.”
She continued: “We go to their homes to encourage them to come here, but they cite the lack of conducive conditions as their reason. Despite its deplorable state, this PHC is still cleaner and more conducive than the mud houses where they often deliver,” she said.
Mrs Oyewusi, facility’s head, Gbamu Gbamu PHC
Identified as Mrs Oyewusi, the facility’s head and a qualified Principal CHEW, arrived about 30 minutes later. She lamented the challenges faced by the PHC, including the lack of access to clean drinking water, and the absence of electricity for several years.
“We don’t have clean water. We rely on the well in front of the facility. Pregnant women and other patients avoid staying here due to insecurity, mosquito infestations, and inadequate bed spaces. Most patients don’t linger because of these issues. Despite having seven registered pregnant women, only about two attend antenatal sessions regularly,” she said.
Mr Dauda Alade, who is the ward development committee (WDC) chairman in the area, confirmed that the health centre still enjoys little patronage but stressed the urgent need for maintenance and upgrades to meet up with national standards. The National standards set by the NPHCDA stipulate a minimum of 24 staff members for a primary healthcare centre, including medical officers, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and support staff.
“If this centre is well-maintained and equipped, it wouldn’t appear as neglected as it does now. Since I became chairman in 2010, the initial influx of patients has dwindled. Imagine a woman in labour at night with no light and only one usable bed. It’s a dire situation, and I’ve encountered snakes here more times than I can count,” he lamented.
Unlike Gbamugbamu PHC, the Ojelana facility has undergone recent renovation and improvement, but residents describe it as ‘Big Body, No Engine.’
The PHC is registered to provide a wide range of services including medical, surgical, pediatric, special clinical services, antenatal care, immunisation, HIV/AIDS services, non-communicable diseases, family planning, nutrition, health education, and community mobilization. However, despite the renovations, the centre still faces challenges with inadequate equipment. Wards and offices were observed empty, and a few patients seen were resting on makeshift mattresses on the floor during a visit by this reporter.
Mrs Abiodun Yusuf, the matron at Ojelana, shared her experience: “I was posted here in February this year. But since then, we haven’t recorded any delivery. Some pregnant women do come, but they often don’t return. Currently, we have registered pregnant women, but we haven’t established regular antenatal days due to low numbers. Our operations are hindered by lack of electricity and water supply.”
According to findings, the centre relies solely on solar power for lighting and fetches water from nearby wells and streams. Despite serving the community round the clock, transportation remains a challenge, with one staff member per shift.
Notoriety of TBAs in Ogun communities
One of the most significant concerns regarding TBAs is their lack of formal medical training. Unlike certified midwives and obstetricians, TBAs often rely on traditional practices and may lack comprehensive knowledge of modern medical procedures and emergency interventions. According to experts, this can lead to complications during childbirth that they are not equipped to handle, increasing the risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.
The front view of the Olorun Ayo Spiritual Maternity Home, Sagamu, Ogun State
Ogun State has the highest child mortality rate in Southwestern Nigeria, with 56 out of 1,000 infants dying before their first birthday in 2022. Community members attribute some maternal deaths to TBAs, citing the poor state of PHCs and the lack of emergency response systems as contributing factors.
During visits to several health facilities, health workers expressed concerns about TBAs instilling fear in pregnant women. Many women register at both TBAs and PHCs but are often warned against delivering at PHCs by their families, particularly husbands and in-laws.
At Itusokun PHC, Ward 6, Sagamu, Mrs Abosede Omoniyi, a community health worker, highlighted the challenges they face despite the centre’s recent upgrade to a full primary healthcare facility with round-the-clock services in February 2024.
“We’ve encountered cases where deliveries become complicated, and despite referrals to General Hospitals or Ogun State University Teaching Hospital, women return to TBAs, believing in their ability to ensure safe deliveries and fearing potential harm or curses if they do not comply,” said Omoniyi.
A Consultant Clinical Pharmacologist and Malaria Scientist at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, Dr Samuel Obaro, believes TBAs have increased the maternal mortality rate in the country rather than reduced it. He says outcomes are better when pregnant women are assisted by skilled birth attendants and maintains that the Federal Ministry of Health has not adopted TBAs practice as a line of action in maternal care.
How cultural beliefs hinders healthcare delivery
Traditional healing practices, deeply entrenched in many communities, often intersect with modern medical advice. According to experts, a reliance on herbal remedies, spiritual healing, or ritualistic practices can sometimes lead individuals to forego evidence-based treatments. In some cases, these practices can pose direct risks to patients, such as the use of unsterilized instruments or harmful substances.
The front view of the Iya Seun Trado Medical Home, Ijebu East LGA, Ogun State.
Mrs Bolanle Bushirat Adelani, head of the reproductive health unit and apex nurse for Sagamu LGA, attributed the prevalence of traditional childbirth practices to cultural and traditional beliefs.
“There’s a strong adherence to traditional methods in our communities,” she explained.
“This often involves a belief in the superior abilities of TBAs. While we respect cultural practices, our focus is on promoting safe and effective maternal healthcare. We’re not competing with them but advocating for professional and safe practices. Collaboration is essential as we cannot address these challenges alone.”
The impact of cultural beliefs on healthcare is sharply clear, especially given Nigeria’s critical shortage of medical professionals. Despite the World Health Organisation’s recommendation of a 1:600 doctor-to-patient ratio, Nigeria has only 24,000 licensed medical doctors available in the country as at 2022, less than 10 percent of the number needed to meet WHO standards. This shortage contributes significantly to high maternal and infant mortality rates. It is estimated that more than 60 percent of births occur outside medical facilities in Nigeria, stressing the vital role TBAs play in maternal health care, particularly in underserved rural areas.
In marginalised Ogun communities visited, delivery statistics at TBAs vary significantly. Ola-Iya Trado Medical Home in Agboro Village, Ijebu East LGA, reported 25 deliveries and 12 registered pregnant women so far this year. Olorun Ayo Spiritual Maternity Home in Alagbon Mefa, Sagamu, recorded 60 deliveries with 25 pregnant women on its register. Similarly, Iyanu Oluwa Mission Home in Isote, Makun Sagamu, had 10 deliveries and 5 pregnant women registered, while Iya Seun Trado Medical Clinic reported over 40 deliveries and 25 pregnant women on its register. In contrast, nearby Ojelana PHC and Gbamugbamu PHC have not recorded any deliveries in the last four months, with fewer than 10 pregnant women on their registers.
Experts react
Dr Oluwatoyin Ajayi-Osakwe, CEO, Foundation for Family Reformation and Medical Director at Shelters Hospital, Lagos, acknowledged the complementary role of TBAs in healthcare, especially in underserved areas where formal healthcare access is limited. He noted that TBAs can provide initial care and support critical for pregnant women who might otherwise receive no care.
However, Ajayi-Osakwe cautioned against the risks associated with TBA services, particularly in managing complicated deliveries. He expressed concerns that TBAs may lack adequate skills and equipment to handle emergencies, which could lead to adverse outcomes for mothers and infants.
In his opinion, Dr Michael Obaro, senior lecturer in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, noted that although collaborative healthcare is a practice that has been established in advanced countries like China, US and others, in Nigeria caution should be applied due to safety and quality control issues.
“For us to think about incorporating traditional birth practices into the conventional healthcare, we need to do a lot of things, including awareness creation, education and orientation. We need to find a way to control and ensure their quality control before their methods can be allowed to be used. I know there are a lot of people that patronise the TBAs, but it’s not one that is recognised yet by the official health system. Conventional healthcare is highly regulated, so for the TBAs to be recognised, there should be a framework for regulation.
Dr Michael Obaro
Also, the Managing Director, Crystal Herbal and Wellness, Damilola Ogunlola, emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to address the preference for traditional birth homes among underage pregnant women. “Improving healthcare access and affordability, increasing education and awareness, and amongst others are key to achieving better health outcomes for young mothers and their babies.”
Reactions from government officials
In a telephone interview with our correspondent, the Ijebu East LGA Chairman, Hon. Adetutu Elizabeth Oyesanya stressed the efforts of the local government towards improving health facilities in the area.
“I am deeply committed to healthcare and assure you that all necessary actions will be taken to address the challenges faced by PHCs in the local government area. We are aware of existing difficulties and are prepared to resolve them.
The frontal view of Gbamu Gbamu PHC, Ijebu East LGA, Ogun State.
“The condition of some health centres in our local government has been a significant concern for me. The State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, is equally committed to prioritising healthcare. In my eight -month tenure, we have undertaken several initiatives to improve primary healthcare centres. This includes the rehabilitation of Ojelana Health Centre in Owu Ijebu; Atoyo Health Centre in Ijebu Itele; and the construction of a new Primary Health Centre at Orita J4, serving nearly 30 villages in that area. We have also installed solar street lights at several health centres across the Local Government,” she said.
The newly renovated Ojelana PHC in Ijebu East LGA, Ogun State
Furthermore, she said that the LGA has implemented measures to monitor community engagement with healthcare infrastructure in the area.
“We have implemented measures to monitor community engagement with health facilities, sensitisation efforts by health personnel on the importance of antenatal and postnatal care for pregnant women in rural areas, and ongoing monitoring of disease outbreaks and immunisation efforts within each community.
“The Governor has initiated new electrification projects, resulting in restored electricity to some areas, although Ojelana currently remains without power.”
Meanwhile, Dr Tomi Coker, the commissioner for health in Ogun State, emphasised in a telephone interview that the state government is steadfast in improving healthcare interventions. She highlighted the “Ibidero” initiative launched earlier this year by the state government, aiming to benefit 15,000 pregnant women as part of efforts to reduce maternal mortality.
Dr Tomi Coker, commissioner for health, Ogun State
Coker stressed that, “The state government is committed to prioritising maternal healthcare by offering them free health insurance covering for antenatal care and delivery, including cesarean sections. Each woman also receives 5,000 Naira upon delivering at our health centres.”
“Ibidero” is a health insurance scheme targeting vulnerable pregnant women across Ogun State’s 20 local government areas. Enrolled women receive free maternal health services at designated health centres to minimise pregnancy-related complications. Additionally, participants receive a stipend upon delivery, and registrations are facilitated at hospitals within walking distance to their homes. Last year, 3,000 pregnant women benefited from the pilot phase of the program.”
Regarding collaboration with TBAs, Coker recognised their significant presence and patronage, indicating they are indispensable partners. She emphasised the need for collaboration and support from the government to ensure safe maternal healthcare practices across the state.
However, efforts to reach Dr Elijah Ogunsola, Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Primary Health Care Development Board, proved abortive. Despite multiple attempts via phone calls and WhatsApp messages, he could not be reached, even though the messages were delivered and read.
*This report is supported by the International Budget Partnership IBP and the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR)
President of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Miss Oluwanifesimi Agbede
In this exclusive interview, the President of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students (PANS), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Miss Oluwanifesimi Agbede, speaks on her interesting pharmacy journey. The Ondo State-born young scholar, who is presently in 500-Level, also recounts her foray into PANS politics as well as the achievements of her administration. Excerpts:
Tell us about your pharmacy journey.
Pharmacy wasn’t my first choice, as I wanted to be a nurse back then in secondary school. I spent three years seeking admission to study nursing science, but nothing worked out.
A good friend of mine, Anita Harris-Isa, was the first person to tell me about considering pharmacy. I didn’t know much about it then, but I was open to trying out a new challenge. Thankfully, it was a good decision I made.
Pharmacy school turned out to be adventurous and fun, amidst the many “shades” characteristic of our dear pharmacy school. The best part is that I can’t wait to become a proud pharmacist in a few months.
What were your motivations for contesting for the post of PANS president?
My major motivation is my love for serving others and helping people. Besides, I find myself naturally predisposed to filling in the gap for administrative roles and other roles that give me the capacity to influence decisions or policies for the benefit of the larger population.
While I had served in other less prominent positions of leadership before now, the eureka moment came when I first campaigned for the office of vice president. I was very confident that I would do a great job serving the students to the best of my ability. I gleaned so much insight and experience from that office.
The goal hasn’t changed since then: making a difference and helping people solve problems.
Can you tell us some of your achievements and challenges so far in office?
We are more than halfway into our tenure, and thankfully, I have been able to check many boxes of the things planned out for the tenure. There were also a couple of other things that came up unplanned but for which lasting solutions were applied.
One of the earliest issues that came up during our tenure was the increase in tuition and accommodation fees, which was a wide-scale issue that affected virtually all federal universities. This sudden development constituted a potential jeopardy for many students, and thus, PANS needed to help the situation as much as we could.
We started with dialogue with the school authority for a reduction, but not so much could be achieved. I was able to partner with some organisations, like the African Women on Board, which made generous donations to the students.
We awarded scholarships to many students who were unable to finance their tuition, and the cumulative funds raised for this project ran into millions of naira. I couldn’t have been happier to have been a part of how these students were given renewed hope.
Other things we have achieved so far in this administration include the renovation of the PANS-UNILAG Secretariat to create a befitting environment. We also held a skills acquisition programme during the holiday. We partnered with some organisations like Hibreed and PANSites and honed skills such as data analysis, graphic design, and video editing, to mention a few.
How are you balancing academic work with the stress of running the PANS office?
I have learnt firsthand that leading in a capacity such as this and managing academics is a daunting task, and only a hard-working person can successfully navigate both duties.
Delegation is a vital skill that has helped me thus far. As I said, the tasks are intimidatingly vast, and no one person can individually do them all. Thanks to true comrades into whose capable hands I have been able to confidently leave certain tasks, while I take more of a supervisory position in seeing them done. This also allows me to channel my time and energy to other things that require them as a matter of emergency or greater priority.
In all, diligence underlines a true leader’s core values. I do my best to give my best to my academics in the rather little time that is left for it. Thank God for sustenance.
If you had the privilege of changing some things about pharmacy education at UNILAG, what would they be?
I have noticed that the majority of pharmacy students are smart, but their grades aren’t a reflection of their academic prowess. Some students fail some courses not because they’re not so smart but because they don’t understand the topics taught and they aren’t so good at cramming.
That being said, changing the grading system in pharmacy school is something I would love to do. Our grades shouldn’t be determined by our in-courses and examinations alone; our lecturers can start grading our presentations and assignments for each course as part of our cumulative score.
I would also love for pharmacy students to get more practical knowledge than theory, and I would also love the addition of important courses to our curriculum that we need in the outside world to become outstanding pharmacists. In this ever-evolving world, we need courses on technology, entrepreneurship, and good managerial skills.
What is your advice to female pharmacy students seeking to follow in your footsteps by vying for PANS presidential posts?
You can do anything, irrespective of your gender or background. Don’t allow any limitations from people. Believe in yourself, and be ready to serve others selflessly. On a lighter note, “your reward is in heaven”; this isn’t a paid job, but it will help you build capacity as a female leader and it will help you stand out in the outside world.
I would love to see more females step up and take up this role. We shouldn’t leave it for men only. Females are not limited to taking up lower positions. If I can do it, you can do it too, and do it even better.
Sequel to the nomination exercise for the Dean of the Year 2024, which ended 3 August, 2024, four nominees have emerged with highest nominations, and met the stipulated criteria for the poll.
The candidates shortlisted for the poll are as follows: Professor Ibrahim Adamu Yakasai (BUK); Professor Emmanuel Attih (UNIUYO); Professor Gloria Ayoola (UNILAG); and Ass. Prof. John Alfa (Bingham University).
You are to vote for the candidate of your choice among them, while the candidate with the highest votes emerges the winner.
Please note that VOTING STARTS on 10 August, and CLOSES on 29 August, 2024 at 12: 00 Noon
You can only vote once. The system will prevent you from voting if you have voted before.
HOW TO REGISTER AND VOTE
1. Click on the register button below.
2. Fill out the form with your details, Username, Email (valid), Choose User Password and confirm the User Password.
3. Click on submit (confirmation link will be sent to your mail)
4. Login to your mail, click on the link sent to you from Pharmanews
5. Login to Pharmanews site with your username and password ( if you are not redirected to the voting poll, click on the Vote for the Dean of the Year 2024 link )
6. Scroll down to the POLL WIDGET (If the poll did not show, click on the Back to Vote button)
7. Click on the name of your preferred candidate to Vote.
NOTE: Your email must be confirmed
Your comments are highly welcome. However, comments do not count as vote cast.
Managing Director of Miraflash Nig. Ltd, Pharm. Moses Olurotimi Oluwalade, with his wife at his 60th birthday celebration in Lagos
For the Managing Director of Miraflash Nigeria Limited, Pharm. Dr Moses Olurotimi Oluwalade, 6 June 2024, was a day of celebration, as pharmacists, friends, family, and well-wishers gathered at Regency Hall, Ikeja, Lagos, to celebrate his 60th birthday.
In his message during the birthday service, Pastor Wole Ajayeoba, acting regional pastor of Region 11 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), said that a birthday celebration is an opportunity to reflect and measure one’s days on earth.
Ajayeoba explained that there are four stages of life for every person: the morning, afternoon, evening, and night stages. He encouraged everyone to reflect on each stage of their lives, serve God, and contribute to humanity while they still have the strength to do so, emphasising that a time will come when they may no longer have the strength.
The acting regional pastor described the Miraflash boss as a humble and silent achiever who does not seek attention. He urged everyone to be humble, wise, and above all, to fear God, which he said is the beginning of wisdom.
Pharm. Moses Olurotimi Oluwalade with his family.
At the reception, the Chairman of the occasion, Pharm. Rotimi Ogungbade, who is also the managing director of Fontana Pharmacy, described Oluwalade as an honest person with impeccable character, integrity, and a deep fear of God. He advised the celebrant to take things easy at 60 by slowing down a bit and putting processes in place to manage his company effectively.
Mr Seun Oluwalade, a younger brother of the celebrant, described him as the pillar of the family, saying he is someone who always helps and ensures that people are supported at various levels.
In response to the outpouring of love he received at the event, Oluwalade, who is also a pastor in charge of a zonal headquarters in RCCG, expressed his gratitude and humility. He said, “I don’t know what I have done to receive God’s favour, but I pray that God will help me continue doing those things.”
Miraflash Nig. Ltd. is an indigenous pharmaceutical company specializing in manufacturing antibiotics, specifically beta-lactam. The birthday event was attended by many pharmacists, top RCCG pastors, family members, and well-wishers.
In an era where healthcare challenges are becoming increasingly complex, the role of pharmacists in Nigeria has never been more crucial. The 2024 International Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), held 22-27 July in Ibadan was a landmark event that underscored the urgent need for innovation and collaboration in pharmacy practice. As healthcare providers, pharmacists are uniquely positioned to lead transformative changes that enhance patient care and improve health outcomes.
Pharmacy practice in Nigeria is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and changing patient needs. The conference’s theme, “Advancing Community Pharmacy Practice through Innovation and Collaboration,” aptly captured this shift. In today’s digital age, technology is revolutionising how pharmacists operate. Digital tools such as electronic health records (EHRs), telepharmacy, and mobile health applications are making healthcare more accessible and efficient. These innovations enable pharmacists to provide more personalised and comprehensive care, reaching patients in remote areas and ensuring continuity of care.
Keynote speaker, Pharm. Remi Adeseun, global director at Salient Advisory, emphasised the critical role of technological advancements in reshaping the healthcare landscape. He highlighted how digital health innovations are driving community-based care, making it more patient-centred and effective. The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in pharmacy practice, for instance, allows for more precise medication management and adherence monitoring, ensuring that patients receive the right treatments at the right time.
In addition to technological innovation, the conference also highlighted the importance of policy support in advancing pharmacy practice. A recent policy change by the Nigerian government, eliminating tariffs, excise duties, and VAT on imported pharmaceutical inputs, is a significant step toward making medications more affordable and accessible. This policy not only reduces the cost burden on patients but also empowers pharmacists to provide better care by making high-quality medications more readily available.
Collaboration is another cornerstone of advancing pharmacy practice. The conference underscored the importance of building strong partnerships among pharmacists, other healthcare professionals, and policymakers. Such collaborations are essential for a holistic approach to healthcare, where pharmacists work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers to manage chronic diseases, provide preventive care, and address public health challenges. This collaborative approach is particularly crucial in managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, where pharmacists can play a key role in patient education and medication management.
Public health initiatives also form a critical aspect of pharmacy practice. Community pharmacists, due to their accessibility and trust within communities, are ideally positioned to lead initiatives such as vaccination drives, health screenings, and health education campaigns. These initiatives not only promote wellness but also help in early detection and management of diseases, thereby improving public health outcomes.
Despite these positive developments, there is no denying that challenges remain. The conference acknowledged issues such as inadequate funding, regulatory barriers, and infrastructural deficits that continue to hinder the full potential of pharmacy practice. However, the shared resolve among pharmacists to overcome these challenges was evident. The discussions at the conference were filled with optimism and a clear vision for the future, driven by the commitment to leverage innovation and collaboration.
In all, “Oluyole 2024” was more than a reflection on the state of community pharmacy; it was a clarion call to action. It highlighted that embracing innovation and fostering collaboration are not just responses to current challenges but proactive strategies for shaping the future. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, pharmacists in Nigeria must position themselves to play a leading role in delivering integrated, efficient, and patient-centred care.
Looking ahead, the momentum generated at the ACPN conference offers a hopeful vision for the future. By embracing innovation and collaboration, Nigerian pharmacists are not only adapting to the changing healthcare environment but also setting the stage for a more dynamic and responsive healthcare system. This transformation holds the promise of a future where pharmacy practice stands at the forefront of healthcare innovation, improving health outcomes for all Nigerians.
Essentially, the advancement of pharmacy practice through innovation and collaboration is not just a concept but a movement. It is about redefining the role of pharmacists, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and fostering partnerships that enhance patient care. It is our belief that the future of pharmacy practice in Nigeria is bright, and the journey towards a more innovative and collaborative practice has only just begun.
In the annals of pharmaceutical and scientific research in Nigeria, very few luminaries have recorded such ground-breaking achievements as Professor Michael Umale Adikwu. Indeed, anyone who has closely monitored his exploits from his university days to date cannot but conclude that he is, so far, the victor ludorum of pharmacy scholarship in the country.
A paragon of profound intellect and prolific ingenuity, Adikwu has not only redefined the boundaries of pharmaceutical research but also elevated Nigeria’s global standing in this vital discipline. His journey, marked by an unwavering commitment to research, education, innovation and administration, serves as a monumental testimonial of what can be achieved through passionate pursuit and commitment to excellence.
To begin with, Adikwu holds the remarkable record of being the youngest pharmacist to achieve professorship in Nigeria at just 35 years of age – a feat he could have achieved even earlier! Beyond this, however, as each letter of his name rightly suggests, Adikwu is an Accomplished pharmaceutical scientist, a Distinguished academic, an Illustrious innovator, a Kinetic instructor, a Wonderful administrator and an Unstoppable highflier.
Accomplished pharmaceutical scientist
Born on April 19, 1963, Adikwu’s path to becoming a revolutionary scientist was shaped from his younger years. Growing up in a village, he often fetched roots of Alchornea cordifolia (Christmas bush) for his mother to treat his siblings’ malaria. This experience, coupled with his fascination with the natural world, inspired his passion for transforming everyday materials into potential medicinal compounds.
“I was a village boy and very playful, and I thought some of those things that I used to play with could easily be converted to drugs,” he recalls. This early interest laid the foundation for his trailblazing accomplishments in pharmaceutical sciences.
From a humble start at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Primary School, in Benue State, to Federal Government College, in Jos, Adikwu showed a strong penchant for excellence. He pursued his passion for pharmaceutical sciences at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, graduating in 1986. Since then, he has consistently expanded the frontiers of pharmaceutical science and education.
Adikwu’s pioneering work in raw materials utilisation and sustainability has been significant. His research has also explored genetic engineering, lymphocyte hybridoma, taste-masking of chloroquine through microencapsulation, pharmaceutical microbiology, and, most notably, the beneficial effects of snail and slug mucin.
He has been invited to overseas laboratories thrice: first as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow in Germany (1999-2000), second as a Matsumae Fellow in Japan (2002), and third as a Royal Society Fellow in Manchester, United Kingdom (2006). He has also received international grants from the Royal Society of Chemistry of Great Britain (2002), the Third World Academy of Sciences, Italy (2004), and the International Foundation for Science, Sweden (2004). Locally, he has received grants from the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), Abuja, and the Wellcome Nigeria Trust, Lagos.
In 2007, Adikwu was appointed the national coordinator of Science and Technology Education Post Basic (STEP-B), a project aimed at improving post-basic and higher education in Nigeria through the World Bank IDA system. Under this project, eleven Centers of Excellence emerged based on various national needs.
Distinguished academic
Adikwu’s journey as a distinguished scholar is nothing short of remarkable. Upon graduating with B.Pharm in 1986, his passion for research, ignited during his undergraduate project on genetic engineering, motivated him to pursue a career in academia. He began his postgraduate studies at UNN, focusing on the taste-masking of chloroquine through microencapsulation, under the guidance of his Indian supervisor. Despite balancing his internship and National Youth Service Corps in Kwara State, he completed his master’s degree practical work and later defended his thesis.
After a stint at the University of Jos, he returned to Nsukka and fully immersed himself in academic work. His innovative study on the Essential Drugs List Decree and its impact on drug formulations garnered international attention, with his article published in The Lancet. This publication significantly advanced his academic career, leading to his rapid promotion to senior lecturer, surpassing his seniors in less than three years.
Three years later, with over 41 research papers, Adikwu applied for professorship but was initially denied due to internal university conflicts. Undeterred, he applied again in 1998 with 61 papers and was eventually promoted to professor, setting an unbeaten record. Adikwu has since mentored numerous postgraduate students, eight of whom are now professors of pharmacy in various universities. His commitment to academic excellence is reflected in his prolific research output, with over 270 publications that have earned him local and international recognition. His contributions have enriched the academic community and have had a lasting impact on pharmaceutical education in Nigeria and beyond.
Illustrious innovator
Adikwu has distinguished himself among his contemporaries by ensuring that his research efforts do not end “on paper.” His innovative spirit, driven by childhood curiosity about natural remedies, has led to pioneering pharmaceutical breakthroughs. Among these are his wound healing devices (formulations) based on snail mucin research. This research earned him the prestigious NLNG Nigeria Prize for Science in 2006. The annual prize, awarded for excellence in scientific breakthroughs, is Nigeria’s highest scientific award, and Adikwu was the first scientist to win it singlehandedly. He outperformed nine other contestants who submitted works in fields such as Physics, Veterinary Clinical Virology, Quantity Surveying, Mathematics, and Agriculture.
According to the award organisers, Adikwu’s work, titled “Wound Healing Devices (Formulations) Containing Snail Mucin,” was “a significant contribution to drug formulation and drug delivery systems that would promote the potentials of local materials in the formulation of drugs.” Specifically, the work established that snail biopolymer mucin can be made into various pharmaceutical formulations such as ointments, creams, gels, and films for wound healing, as well as antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral treatments. Tests on his products on rats and rabbits showed no serious allergic or toxic effects.
Kinetic instructor
As an educator, Adikwu has consistently impacted his students’ lives in tremendous ways. His dynamic teaching methods and dedication to fostering critical thinking have helped him nurture a new generation of pharmacists and researchers, many of whom have become celebrated scholars and giants of industry. He once jokingly referred to himself as the “grandfather of professors”.
Moreover, Adikwu’s passion for all-around intellectual empowerment has led him to advocate for a research foundation to bring postdoctoral fellows from around the world to Nigeria. He believes this is a crucial factor in helping advanced countries with their research and development.
Wonderful administrator
In 2014, Professor Adikwu was selected from a pool of 124 candidates to become the vice-chancellor of the University of Abuja. At the time of his appointment, the university, described by a former minister of education as “a systemic failure,” ranked 105th in Nigeria. Under Adikwu’s exceptional leadership, the university experienced significant growth and development in every aspect. He ensured that all faculties, except one, moved to the main campus and that all programmes received accreditation.
His ability to foster a harmonious environment among staff and students, coupled with his strategic partnerships with international universities and organisations, transformed the institution, which had risen to the 9th position by the time he left in 2019.
Unstoppable highflier
Given his unparalleled achievements as a scientist, educator, and administrator, it is no surprise that Adikwu’s career has been adorned with numerous accolades and recognitions. Besides his historic Prize for Science, he has received the May and Baker Prize for Excellence in the Practice of Pharmacy (2009) and the World Academy of Science Prize for the Development of Materials for Use in Science and Technology (2019), among others.
Despite his numerous achievements and accolades, which have cemented his reputation as a global leader in scientific scholarship and set a benchmark for future generations, Professor Adikwu’s dedication and passion remain unwavering. He says, “My research interests have actually not changed. I see my research on snail mucin as incomplete and I am still looking at it very critically. I want to work on slugs and see how they can give indices that can be used to protect the environment.”
The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, has described drug abuse as a pandemic in the state, requiring urgent attention.
Ogunlende, 44, urged youths in the state to shun drugs capable of truncating their future, while speaking at the “Empowering Her Fortune Initiative on Tuesday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the empowerment programme was organised by Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area in conjunction with MTN Momo, a Fin-Tech Subsidiary of MTN, Nigeria.
The commissioner called on all relevant stakeholders and well-meaning individuals to join hands in the fight against drug abuse in various communities to secure the lives and future of the youth.
Decrying several risks substance abuse had caused young people, Ogunlende said, “This drug affects all of us”.
He said that substance addiction had caused numerous havoc, including diseases and road crashes that had sent many to their untimely grave, including innocent people.
Ogunlende said: “So, let us not say we are not concerned, it does not matter, or it does not involve us because we do not take it.
“Please, I want us to take it seriously. It is a pandemic. I have been involved in several conversations about these drugs in Lagos.
“Once something is a pandemic, it is something every one of us must continue to be a part of.
“The government cannot do it alone, the private organisation cannot do it alone; we must form partnership and collaboration to ensure our community continues to thrive and be safe.”
He said that the state government’s war against drug abuse informed the launch of the awareness campaign tagged ‘Lagos Kicks Against Drug Abuse.
“We must ensure a greater Lagos continues to rise,” he added.
Ogunlende, who commended the comportment of Lagos youths during the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, said that the Lagos state government had not taken youths for granted.
According to him, youths should take advantage of various opportunities to get themselves empowered including the state “Students Loan’ scheme.
He commended the Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, Mr Fuad Atanda-Lawal, for taking women’s empowerment seriously to boost their trade.
Ogunlende urged the council boss never to forget the youths because of the population and challenges.
NAN reports that the programme, which empowered 1000 women with N50,000 each, was attended by lawmakers, traditional white cap chiefs, and APC leaders.
The human race relies mainly on herbal drugs for the treatment of infectious diseases. This is deeply established in the ancient Indian Ayurvedic literature, where the use of herbs is disclosed in the management of myriad systemic disorders. The plant in the remedy of human ailment is very popular because of the easy availability, certain therapeutic activity with no side effects, and economic effectiveness compared with modern medicine. Origanum vulgare belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It has warm, slightly heavy, and penetrating properties and is bitter in taste. In this present study, the bacterial culture was used to observe the in-vitro antibacterial activity of the plant extract. For in-vivo study, a total of 12 Wistar rats were considered for the treatment.
The dried leaves of Origanum vulgare were then extracted in two different solvents, i.e. distilled water and ethanolic solvent. The antibacterial efficacy of the aqueous and ethanolic extract was investigated by agar well diffusion method. Maximum activity was observed in Pseudomonas aeuroginosae, showing a 17.33 mm zone of inhibition by 100 mg/ml of ethanolic extract, followed by CHJ5 B. hangzhouensis, showing a 15.66 mm zone of inhibition by 100 mg/ml of ethanolic extract. The antibacterial efficacy of the aqueous and ethanolic extract followed a dose-dependent response against all the standard bacterial strains. The acute administration of ethanolic extract did not show any significant changes in serum biochemical parameters such as urea, creatinine, and albumin in Wistar rats.
The aqueous extract of the plant showed dose-dependent antimicrobial activity against all the tested bacterial strains except Aeromonas veronii biovar in the maximum dose considered in this study, while at the maximum dose, the ethanolic extract showed antibacterial activity against all tested standard bacterial strains in the present study. The antibacterial activities of ethanolic extract at the maximum dose are more significant than the activities shown by the aqueous extract at the maximum dose. The LD50 of aqueous and ethanolic extract was not possible to be determined as up to 4000 mg/kg of aqueous extract and 5000 mg/kg of ethanolic extract was inoffensive and did not show any indications of metal poisoning in Wistar white rats.
Literature Review
The antimicrobial properties of this plant are due to the existence of essential oils in Origanum species. There are plants like lemon balm (Melissa officinale L.), sage (Salvia officinale L.), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), and marjoram (Origanum vulgare) whose essential oils have a negative impact on the growth of many pathogenic bacteria. The aim of this research was to diagnose and isolate pathogenic unwanted bacteria in rats, to apply Origanum vulgare at a normal dose (5ml/kg) regularly to determine the antibacterial properties of the mericrde and meraque extracts, and to determine which medications the extracts are as effective as antibiotics, and those with the most effects. The aqueous extract of Origanum vulgare was studied at different concentrations of 100 and the ethanolic extract at different concentrations of 50. Both had an antimicrobial effect against some of the microorganisms grown from the cultures of the identified isolates.
Other researchers conducted pharmacological surveys on aqueous and ethanol extracts of Origanum vulgare (plant study extracts). First, in vitro tests were carried out on two types of bacteria: aureus and dead bacteria. The results of the work showed that all plant study extracts were effective in both bacteria at varying concentrations. Moreover, fifty Wistar rats (12–16 weeks old) were used in the investigation, which were divided into aqueous and ethanolic groups, each composed of 25 animals. They were further divided into five subgroups (1, 2, 3) and (2 control groups). The aqueous and ethanolic Origanum vulgare groups received 50 mg/ml, 100 mg/ml, and 150 mg/ml (the third booster effect) for 10 days. The fourth group was treated with the simulated standard drug (espgentamicin) at 3.3 mg/ml using quantities due to animal surface area. All rats in the group showed antibacterial effects of the doses in the urine and kidneys, and those with the greatest antibacterial capacity were determined. In conclusion, the aqueous extract of Origanum vulgare showed less antibacterial effect, and the most effective dose in both organs was the ethanolic extract, which was close to the standard antibiotic in effectiveness in both organs. There was no effect of the dose gradient in the groups on the degree of the natural growth that had been isolated. So, we find that the two doses of 100 and 150 mg/ml for the aqueous extract are more effective on the bacteria in both organs, with no significant effect of age or body weight of Wistar rats of both genders on growth.
Materials and Methods
Plant Material Collection and Preparation: Three packs of dried Oregano (Origanum Vulgare) leaves was bought at a supermarket at temperature between 24 °C to 27 °C. After purchase the specimen was kept in the laboratory for 24 hours at a temperatures that varies between 23 and 30 °C.
Preparation of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts: The dried oregano material was converted into the powder using a blender and it was then filtered using a sieve (size 20/40) followed by a double sieving (size 40/80). The final quantity of dried powder was 320 g. For aqueous extracts, dried Origanum vulgare leaves was kept in dark cupboard at 30 °C. 15gram of Origanum vulgare powder were dissolved in sterile distilled boiled water (100 mL). The extract was prepared by the hot extraction method at 100 °C for 15 min with an incubator. Ethanol extracts were obtained by the cold maceration technique. For the health of the animals, 96% ethanol that is not denatured was used, and the extract was prepared by using a shaker instead of a magnetic stirrer. 10 grams of Origanum vulgare powder were dissolved in 70% ethanol (100 mL). And the cold maceration technique was left at room temperature for 24 h. The extracts were filtered on the paper with Whatman No. 1. The obtained extracts were dried using a rotary evaporator, a vacuum at 40 °C (IDB-3L Daihan Scientific, Wonju, Korea). Both dried extracts were dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide with a concentration of 200 mg/mL and kept in refrigeration at 4 °C for 48 h before use.
The dried Origanum vulgare was pulverized and macerated by filtration with boiled water until exhaustion. This aqueous extract was then evaporated using the rotary evaporator (IKA Labortechnik, Germany) at 40 °C to remove any solvents and was transferred to a storage database at 4 °C. Two grams of dried herb were macerated for 3 days at an ambient temperature using 20 mL of 70% ethanol concentration until the solvent extraction process was complete. The supernatant was collected after the tea was filtered. The ethanol extract was then evaporated using a rotary evaporator (IKA Labortechnik, Germany) at 40 °C and transferred to a storage database at 20–25 °C. Each extract was subsequently dissolved in distilled water according to the concentration required for testing and was sonicated for 10 min.
Antibacterial Activity Assay
Antibacterial activity assay: The agar well diffusion method was used for assessing the antibacterial activity of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Origanum vulgare. Microbes were revived on standard plates and a few colonies were transferred into a normal saline solution until the desired solution became approximately equal to that of 0.5 McFarland standard. These colonies were scraped from standard plates using a proper sterile loop, and the specified amount of the broth suspension was spread on the agar plates with the help of a sterilized L-shaped glass rod. The process was repeated for each strain of bacteria. The standard plates in each case consisted of 10 ml of Mueller-Hinton agar prepared in sterile Petri plates. Four wells of 6 mm diameter were made using a well cutter. Each well was filled with 50 µl of the extract using a micropipette with the help of a special sterile tip, No. 2 (0.45 mm). Plates were kept at room temperature for an hour to allow the extract to diffuse and liquid agar to solidify. Plates were then incubated for 24 hours at 37°C, allowing the bacteria to grow and observe the formation of clear zones around the wells. During the 24-hour incubation period, the antibacterial activity of the extracts was evaluated by measuring the diameter of inhibition zones. The results were noted and recorded. In each case, three replicates were made for statistical purposes. Various bacterial strains were used to check the antibacterial efficacy of the extracts, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio cholerae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Shigella species, etc.
Animal Model and Experimental Design
An essential stage in the process of developing a new medicament is attempting to use the human species as a reference. In the case of two new extracts prepared from a plant that was demonstrated to have biological activities with promising results in vitro, the good laboratory practices must be considered.
In this experiment, the researchers have done everything possible to use a close analog of humans, Wistar rats. Our main goal was to show that two different extracts prepared and characterized by us have similar results in terms of biological activities. After our extensive research strategy, we selected Wistar rats for testing, and one way to minimize the testing effects would be to increase the sample size. In the area of drug testing, the Wistar rat is the most widely utilized model and the male source is more readily available than the female. Based on these arguments and the specialist scientific opinion of our team, we have chosen 60 days old, male, Rattus Norvegicus Wistar rats to determine the antibacterial efficacy of the aqueous and ethanolic oregano extracts in rats’ organisms. All these procedures and projects were conducted following institutional-governing/sanitary safety norms and were subjected to bioethical approval from the Institutional Committee for Ethical Animal Use and Care in Research.
Statistical Analysis
The results acquired in the present study were analyzed by Student’s t-test, and data significance was statistically analyzed at a level of 5% (p<0.05). These results suggest that the ethanolic extract significantly reduced the populations of the bacteria in rats compared to the control in a time-dependent way. Eleven species were treated with extracts; bacteria developed more slowly and to a lesser extent in animals than in the untreated group. Differences were observed at various times and with different species, but in all cases, the extracts reduced the size of the bacterial population in tissues or feces. Origanum vulgare, a plant of great medicinal interest, was tested for its antibacterial properties in the oral administration model. Treatment with extracts had an effect on the composition of the rats’ fecal flora.
The Student t-test was performed to find the difference between the control groups and the treated groups. The bacterial count in the control group and treated group at different day intervals was compared. The result showed that the aqueous extract of Origanum vulgare has no antibacterial effect. The aqueous control group showed no significant difference as P = 0.2915 > 0.05, while the treated group also showed P > 0.05 (P = 0.1376). On the other hand, the ethanolic extract was efficient in inhibiting the bacterial microflora of the treated groups, different from those of the control group. The count for the control group and the aqueous control group were at a steady increase. Experiments were carried out, and data was analyzed by standard deviation of mean. It was observed that there was a significant difference between the control groups and the treated groups at P ≤ 0.05.
Results
The result section includes the analysis and interpretation of the key findings associated with the aim of the study. The results include the data from the morphological analysis and the antibacterial activity of the extracts.
Investigating the Antibacterial Activity of the Aqueous Extract
The effect of the aqueous extract was tested as an absolution and a 1/1 dilution (in distilled water) of 15 g/mL to 0.23 g/mL on two types of strains of Salmonella enteritidis, three strains of Escherichia coli, two strains of Listeria monocytogenes, two strains of Enterococcus and one strain of Klebsiella pneumonia. There were no significant differences in the way the gram positive and respectively the gram negative strains reacted to the two dilutions in the well diffusion method, with or without DMSO, since both produced inhibition zones of approximately 3 mm. In the bacteriostatic and bactericidal methods, the manufacture of the germicides by the strains and the resulted inhibition areas followed the same trend for all the tested strains by the two methods, respectively the same reaction pattern on the part of the germs was appreciated.
It can also be observed that a minimum bacteriostatic concentration of 0.75 g/mL (limited dilution) was obtained, indicating an activity of the aqueous extract as an absolution at a relatively low concentration. This is an essential aspect, since in the composition of, for example, the gel, a dilute extract is used, and these include, in addition to the basic gel ingredients, other plant fractions. Significantly favorable results were obtained following the evaluation of the morphological changes that occurred in the bacterial cells after treating a particular dilution of the pathogen with the aqueous extract as an absolution. The pathogenic strains of the species Enterococcus and Listeria presented as when the tests were performed with the control, respectively the germline, pathogen presented large numbers of reproductive elements, were the rods. Only blood cells were incorporated into the germinated controls. The watering of the germinated control, and the control, showed marked germination activity. Significant differences between the germinated controls and the sublethal dilutions tested can be noted. Germination is no longer marked and spores very rapidly occupy the space of indicate bacilla, lysis cells, and board dead cells. It is noted a large number of leucocyte and bacterially aggressive compound. Its possible bactericidal agents together with the phagocytosis phenomenon by the leucocytes contributed to the rapid removal of the damaged or lysed cells. The membrane and pulpier organelle of some of the germs that caused the above morphological changes are altered. A certain number of bacterium or rod-liked were rearranged. Some pockmarked cells result. These chains split loose them of the luggage. It follows a stage made up the almost spectral rod-like cells. This can be observed the die-off of cells and the release of harmful agents that burst out of the so destroyed cell membrane. It also suggests that the immune system has managed to remove the released bacteria or debris. The phenomenon of descending numbers of killed bacterium in the presence of time can also be noted.
Antibacterial Activity of Aqueous Extract
The antibacterial activity of the aqueous extract of Origanum vulgare was carried out using broth microdilution assays with 90% methanol serving as the negative control. Based on the CLSI system, rodent antifungal and antifungal susceptibility testing of the same rodent than our protocol. Based on the broth microdilution, 25% and 50% concentrations were used based on the clinical dose. The results indicated that no visible bacterial growth was observed in the test concentrations (25% and 50%) for Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Salmonella typhimurium. In the in vivo study, Staphylococcus aureus showed susceptibility against the aqueous extract with an average MBC of 33.89 μg/m.
The anticoccidial activity of ethanolic extract of Origanum vulgare was found to be directly related to parasite inhibition potential and was directly implicated in the reduction of the degree of the occupied lesion, decrease the oocyte count, and oocytec diameter, quite comparable to the coccidiostat Diclazuril group. In the present investigation, it was demonstrated that the antibacterial efficacy of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of O. vulgare in the Wister rats exhibited significant effects against the following main bacterial strains: Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis.
Antibacterial Activity of Ethanolic Extract
During the antibacterial activity of the ethanolic extract, growth was observed in the bacteriostatic nutrient medium/agar dose according to the increasing numbers and the descending symbols following the numbers (slight growth). According to the results obtained, on applying Neomycin to the pathogenic E. coli species, a suppression in the growth was observed in all the rats of the experimental group. Similarly, J and I bacterial growth was observed in both the rats of the control group, yet to a different extent. According to the obtained results, the preparation animals with the average EN (J2) dose of the ethanolic extract of Origanum vulgare do not harbor the all treated isolated strains in the gastrointestinal system. We have detected a different interaction between this experimental rat and the isolated strains in the comparison group.
E treated in a separate manner based on the individual characteristics of the species, demonstrated a loose-short increase. At the dose of EN (J1=J2, 12.5%), in the EN dose=J, the effect of N (p≤0.05), and prepared the test isolation by J 2 ratio EN (25% = J1 and J2) and prepared only J in the 15.00% of strain had a different interaction rate. Additionally, Asci A+B resistant potency was E against the Asci A-resistant depending indication (R = 70%) was seen. The multi-resistance observation ratio percentage of the EN (J1= J2) strain was 25%, and EN dose λ= J was detected in the strain ratio was found to be 40%. In the EN (J1= J2) strain because a different interaction between the increased heterogeneity that the effect of p(EN)≤0.05 were detected. According to the administered antibiotics, the interaction potency was evaluated accordingly to the strain values of r(p=0.01). In the study, performed the antibacterial activity of the ethanolic extract of Origanum vulgare, the obtained results J1 the 200 mg/kg EN, and J2 at the dose respectively were killed in EN +ve model rats. Between the Control and the strait treated group observed no statistically significant difference.
Comparison of Efficacy Between Extracts
Results of antibacterial efficacy of Origanum vulgare aqueous and ethanolic extracts were determined from this study and are statistically compared to each other. The mean bacterial count in the group treated with 5% aqueous O. vulgare extract indicates no significant difference at different time intervals. The trend of mean bacterial load in the 5% ethanolic extract treated group was nearly similar from the start of the administration to the end of the trial period to O. vulgare 2.5% ethanolic extract, with significant differences. However, there was no significant difference with the untreated group in the control group from the start of administration to the 7th day post-inoculation.
The antibacterial activity of Origanum vulgare has been examined using the agar well diffusion method and the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The study found it to be weakly and moderately effective, with the ethanolic extract generally to be more effective. Conversely, in the current study, strong antibacterial activity was noted for both extracts with the ethanolic extract following subsequent suit; overall a dose dependent trend was observed. This suggests, based on the values obtained from the analysis, that the dose increase between 2.5% and 5% of both extracts could be favorable. It is important to note that a qualitative assessment was conducted by Rekonevic et al. (2013), in which the bactericidal efficacy of an antiseptic on experimentally contaminated wounds was determined. Similar to our findings, their work reported on a marked bactericidal effect within the group that had been treated with this particular antiseptic and an increase in exposure time.
Discussion
In the present study, we have already demonstrated that the aqueous extract of Origanum vulgare (OvAE) had an in vivo higher significance in the antibacterial potential that can make Origanum extract as an alternative treatment for various diseases caused by infection with Staphylococcus aureus strains.
Over the past 5 years, due to the increase of resistance in animals and humans to various types of antibacterial agents used in the field of clinical medicine and veterinary medicine, people and researchers have turned to natural sources to find solutions to this problem. In natural products, plants are an important source of antimicrobial agents. In this connection, many plants, including Origanum vulgare extract, have been used in the food and pharmaceutical industries for their antibacterial properties. Ov bears a special importance as a medicinal food plant in Balkan countries.
The present study investigated the antibacterial effect of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of O. vulgare, which is considered to be nontoxic to Wistar rats. Based on the conducted research, both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Origanum vulgare showed significant antibacterial activity, as shown by a positive increase in antibacterial activity (p ≤). It was observed that the aqueous extract had the highest antibacterial effect in the spleen, and this difference was statistically significant. It can be used for disease prevention in the wild. The results provide bases for further research on the interactions of medicated feeds containing at reduced dose.
Interpretation of Results
The results of the study conducted aimed to investigate and prove the antibacterial efficacy of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Origanum vulgare in Wistar rats. The Origanum genus and species of the Lamiaceae family have been known by humans for many years due to their high activity against pathogens, especially bacteria. In our study, it was aimed to reveal the antibacterial effect of the Origanum vulgare species against Staphylococcus aureus induced subcutaneously. For the experiment, two extracts were prepared with different solvents; the first one was prepared using sterile distilled water and denoted as the Origanum vulgare aquatic extract, the second one was prepared as the other using 70% ethanol and denoted as the Origanum vulgare ethanolic extract. Both extracts were done with the same usage amount of 150 mg/day/dose. Seven sections were designed to interpret and discuss the results, and in this part, all these sections will be discussed to provide a deep understanding related to the results.
An antibacterial effect comparable to an antibiotic was observed in the current study. It was also especially observed in the Origanum vulgare ethanolic extracts DAY21 group that used the higher dose of the extract. The weight of rats did not significantly change in the first 7 days. In the S. aureus control group, an increase in weight in the first seven days was observed. The weight did not change in any other groups. The average antioxidant capacity of all groups in the serum of the animals was around 7 nmol/l trolox equivalent at the beginning of the study. There were no differences in the average antioxidant capacity of any group in the initial stage. The administration of the extracts did not affect the kidneys. The highest levels at DAY7 were observed in serum aspartate transaminase and gamma-glutamyl transferase were observed in the Origanum Vulgare Ethanolic extracts -DAY7(P) group. These markers decreased to DAY21. The highest level of alanine aminotransferase was also observed in the Origanum Ethanolic extracts -DAY7(P) group, and then, the level declined. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts changed the structure of skin toxicity due to an abscess formation caused by S. aureus infection and repaired the construction.
Mechanisms of Antibacterial Action
The mode of action of plant extracts responsible for the antibacterial effect could be one or a combination of the following: (1) destruction of the bacterial cell wall, (2) inhibition of the enzymes related to the formation of adenosine triphosphate, and (3) destruction of the bacterial cell membrane. The putative mechanism of the antibacterial action of the plant extracts could be attributed to the presence of the major bioactive components, which can affect various metabolic pathways that lead to the generation of ATP for energy production, causing bacterial death. Plant extracts like O. vulgare may treat bacterial infections in complementary medicine since negative results were obtained in terms of antibacterial action in the current study.
Many plant-origin bioactive compounds are reported to have several prevailing mechanisms that are in use against a range of bacteria. In our study, the major bioactive and organic components detected in the agar-well diffusion were polyphenols (flavonoids), which may play an affection in the uses of plant extract because of their prevailed healing properties. It has been suggested that the antibacterial action of plant bioactive components could be due, in part, to both their ability to chelate metal ions responsible for ATP production and their greater permeability across the lipid bilayer of the prokaryotic cell membrane, which can contribute to a decrease in the potential function of the membrane. In reaction with the membrane potential, selective ions will move from the low concentration inside the cell membrane to the higher concentration outside the cell membrane until the positive and negative charges are equal on both sides of the membrane. As shown in the agar-well diffusion, the O. vulgare grown in water exhibited the best inhibition of growth of both G+ and G- bacteria.
Conclusion
Investigating the antibacterial efficacy of Origanum vulgare extracts in Wistar rats showed that both extracts have significant antibacterial activity with significant therapeutic efficacies. We recommend the use of the extracts of Origanum vulgare for the treatment of wounds and infections caused by E. coli and B. subtilis. We further recommend that the safety of treating animals (especially mammals) with this extract be established and the mechanism of action, especially on the method of cell destruction, in all cells of the body be established. The O. vulgare administered has the potential for use in traditional medicine to prevent and control bacteria that can cause harmful pathological diseases.
The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Origanum vulgare in Wistar rats showed in vitro antibacterial activities in terms of the zones of inhibition against E. coli and B. subtilis. The minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentrations of the two extracts on the two test organisms were significantly low. The randomized complete design of the split-plot design showed a significant difference between the infected and uninfected rats but there was no significant difference in the treatments approached as evaluated by the growth performance data and hematological parameters. The organism was isolated from the pubic hairs of the infected rat. Further studies on the pharmacokinetics or time profile of both extracts in Wistar rats should be investigated. The mechanism of action of the compounds in the killing of pathogenic organisms should also be elucidated.
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Literature, pharmacy, and fantasy may seem like disparate realms at first glance—one delves into the depths of human imagination and emotion, another into the scientific study and application of medicines, and the third into realms of magic, myth, and the impossible. Yet, these three domains are intricately connected through their exploration of the human experience, the pursuit of knowledge, and the quest for healing. This essay delves into how literature, pharmacy, and fantasy intersect, complement, and enrich one another, offering profound insights into the human condition, the boundaries of scientific understanding, and the power of imagination.
Literature, as the art of storytelling and expression through written words, has always been a mirror reflecting the human experience. It encompasses a vast array of genres and styles, from epic poetry to contemporary novels, each offering unique perspectives on life, society, and the complexities of existence. At its core, literature serves to illuminate truths about ourselves and the world around us, engaging readers on intellectual, emotional, and spiritual levels.
In the context of pharmacy and fantasy, literature serves as a conduit for exploring the impact of medicine and healing on individuals and societies. Medical narratives, such as the works of Arthur Conan Doyle featuring Sherlock Holmes, often incorporate elements of pharmacology and forensic science to solve mysteries and save lives. These narratives not only entertain but also educate readers about the role of drugs in treating illness and promoting health.
Moreover, literature frequently delves into the ethical dimensions of healthcare, depicting characters who grapple with moral dilemmas, such as the use of experimental treatments or the consequences of pharmaceutical greed. For instance, Aldous Huxley’s dystopian novel, “Brave New World”, critiques a society controlled by pharmacology, raising profound questions about the ethical boundaries of scientific advancement and the impact of drugs on individual freedom.
Pharmacy, on the other hand, is grounded in the rigorous study of drugs, their effects on the human body, and the practice of dispensing medications to promote health and well-being. Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who bridge the gap between medical science and patient care, applying their knowledge to ensure the safe and effective use of medications.
In the realm of fantasy literature, pharmacology often takes on magical dimensions, with potions, elixirs, and mystical remedies playing pivotal roles in the narrative. J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series, for example, features a magical apothecary where wizards and witches procure potions that can heal wounds, induce love, or grant invisibility. These fantastical elements not only captivate readers’ imaginations but also highlight the enduring human fascination with the transformative power of substances.
In reality, pharmacists collaborate with healthcare providers to optimise drug therapy, manage medication regimens, and educate patients about the benefits and risks of treatment options. They play essential roles in healthcare settings, ensuring that medications are prescribed appropriately, dispensed accurately, and used safely to achieve therapeutic outcomes.
Fantasy literature, meanwhile, transports readers to realms of wonder and impossibility, where magic, mythical creatures, and supernatural forces abound. It offers an escape from reality, while simultaneously exploring universal themes of heroism, destiny, and the battle between good and evil. Through fantastical worlds and imaginative storytelling, fantasy literature challenges conventional boundaries of what is possible, inviting readers to envision alternate realities and contemplate existential questions.
In the context of pharmacy, fantasy literature serves as a metaphorical exploration of the limits of scientific knowledge and the mysteries of healing. Stories featuring alchemists seeking the elixir of immortality or healers harnessing the power of mystical herbs evoke themes of transformation and transcendence, echoing humanity’s enduring quest for health and longevity.
Furthermore, fantasy narratives often parallel real-world medical discoveries and innovations, inspiring scientific inquiry and technological advancements. The speculative fiction of authors like Ursula K. Le Guin and Philip K. Dick explores futuristic societies where medical breakthroughs have profound implications for human evolution and social order, prompting readers to reflect on the ethical implications of scientific progress.
The interplay between literature, pharmacy, and fantasy extends beyond thematic exploration to encompass educational enrichment and professional development. Healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, engage with literature to enhance their empathy, communication skills, and understanding of patient experiences. Reading narratives that depict illness, recovery, and the human impact of medical interventions fosters compassion and cultural competence among practitioners, enabling them to provide holistic care to diverse populations.
Moreover, pharmacy education benefits from the integration of literature and fantasy as teaching tools to illustrate complex medical concepts, ethical dilemmas, and the evolution of pharmacotherapy. Educators use literary works such as Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” to discuss the ethical implications of scientific experimentation and the responsibilities of healthcare providers in promoting patient welfare. Similarly, fantasy literature stimulates critical thinking and imagination among students, encouraging them to envision innovative approaches to healthcare delivery and therapeutic interventions.
Pharm. Charles Olumide Oyeniyi is the current vice-chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Lagos State Branch. A native of Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State, he was born in Lagos, on 19 October 1975, to Mr and Mrs Simeon Oyetunji Oyeniyi.
Oyeniyi attended Estate Primary School, Lagos, from 1980 to 1986, followed by Ogba Grammar School, from 1986 to 1992. He then gained admission to study Science Laboratory Technology at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos. Upon completing his Ordinary National Diploma programme, he proceeded to Pfizer Nigeria Limited, for his one-year industrial training. It was at Pfizer that his interest in Pharmacy was kindled.
In 1996, he was admitted to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to study Pharmacy. He obtained his B. Pharm in 2004, after undergoing an intensive and exciting training at the prestigious institution.
Oyeniyi completed his internship at EKO Hospital, where he also did his mandatory one-year youth service programme. He was retained as a fully-licenced pharmacist and soon ascended the leadership ladder of the organisation.
After years of meritorious service at EKO Hotel, Oyeniyi resigned his appointment in 2010 to pursue his passion as a community pharmacist. He established Drug Consult Pharmacy, where he serves as chief executive officer and superintendent pharmacist to date.
Oyeniyi is an active member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) and the ACPN, where he has served in various capacities at both zonal and state levels. He began his leadership role as the assistant zonal coordinator of the Surulere Zone of ACPN. Upon moving to Shomolu, he became the assistant zonal coordinator of the YESBA Zone. He then moved to the state level, serving as assistant secretary, later secretary, and currently vice-chairman. He has also served on various committees of the ACPN and PSN at different times.
Oyeniyi is happily married to Dr (Mrs) Kehinde Oyeniyi, and their marriage is blessed with children.
A scientific study published recently has shown that diets rich in fruits and vegetables can significantly help manage hypertension in patients with history of high blood pressure. The researchers, from the DASH Collaborative Research Group, published their findings in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Hypertension is a leading cause of premature death globally, with the Global Burden of Disease Study in 2015 revealing that elevated blood pressure accounted for 9.4 million deaths worldwide.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30–79 worldwide have hypertension, with most of these individuals living in low- and middle-income countries. Approximately 46 per cent of adults with hypertension are unaware of their condition, and less than half (42 %) are diagnosed and treated. Only about 21 per cent of those with hypertension have it under control.
Lead author of the study, Lawrence Appel, of John Hopkins University, USA, disclosed that the study involved 459 adults with systolic blood pressures below 160 mm Hg and diastolic pressures between 80 and 95 mm Hg.
He said participants followed a control diet low in fruits, vegetables, and dairy, typical of a standard American diet, for three weeks. They were then randomly assigned to one of three diets for eight weeks: the control diet, being a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, or a combination diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy with reduced saturated and total fat, while keeping sodium intake and body weight constant.
According to Appel, the combination diet reduced systolic blood pressure by 5.5 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 3.0 mm Hg more than the control diet. The fruits-and-vegetables diet reduced systolic blood pressure by 2.8 mm Hg and diastolic pressure by 1.1 mm Hg more than the control diet. In the subgroup of 133 participants with hypertension, the combination diet reduced systolic blood pressure by 11.4 mm Hg and diastolic pressure by 5.5 mm Hg more than the control diet.
“Among the 326 participants without hypertension, reductions were 3.5 mm Hg for systolic and 2.1 mm Hg for diastolic pressure,” he stated.
This study underscores the potential of dietary changes in managing hypertension, with emphasis on a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy, while reducing saturated and total fat, can significantly lower blood pressure, providing a practical approach for preventing and treating hypertension.
The WHO defines hypertension, or high blood pressure, as a condition where the pressure in blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). Meanwhile, it can be serious if untreated. Often, symptoms are absent, making regular blood pressure checks essential. Risk factors include older age, genetics, being overweight or obese, lack of physical activity, a high-salt diet, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Lifestyle changes such as healthier eating, quitting tobacco, and increased physical activity can help lower blood pressure. Adherence to medication regimens is crucial, and avoiding high-salt foods, saturated and trans fats, tobacco, and excessive alcohol can also help. Regular medical appointments and stress management are important for reducing hypertension risks. If uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to heart complications, strokes, and kidney damage.
The global target to reduce hypertension prevalence by 33 per cent between 2010 and 2030 highlights the urgency of addressing this public health issue. Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy, as shown by the DASH study, offers a promising strategy for individuals and healthcare providers aiming to combat hypertension effectively.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, says cholera vaccines will soon arrive in Nigeria.
Pate spoke in Abuja during an interactive session with journalists. There has been an outbreak of cholera in Nigeria in recent times, with Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital, the hardest hit.
“We have ordered for the vaccines through the Global Vaccine Alliance. They have approved it,” NAN quoted Pate as saying.
“We are expecting them in the next couple of weeks, so that they will be utilised in the areas that are hotspots.
“The President set up a cabinet committee that has worked very hard, 10 ministries, and in the last four weeks, we have seen dramatic reduction in the numbers of cholera reported.
“However, we are not relenting; it’s too early to declare victory.
“It can come back, because we are still in the rainy season, and we have deployed materials to all the states through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the emergency operations centre led by the NCDC.”
An infection of the small intestine, cholera is caused by a bacterium called vibrio cholerae.
It is a water-borne disease that spreads rapidly in conditions where clean water and proper sanitation are lacking.
The primary mode of transmission is through the ingestion of contaminated water or food, and through open defecation.
Symptoms of cholera include vomiting, dehydration and diarrhoea.
As of June, Nigeria recorded more than 2,809 suspected cholera cases, resulting in 82 deaths.
Last month, the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation said cholera vaccines “from the Gavi-funded global vaccine stockpile will soon arrive in Nigeria” to help curb the outbreak.
Stakeholders have expressed concerns over the low rate of exclusive breastfeeding among lactating mothers in Ogun State, saying it is a fundamental right of the child.
They explained that to help their infant develop a healthy immune system, all mothers must commit to six months of exclusive breastfeeding before supplemental feeding.
The stakeholders spoke at the flag-off ceremony of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week, with the theme; “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding, Support for All” in Abeokuta.
The wife of the governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, in her address, stated that the initiative aimed at raising awareness about exclusive breastfeeding and addressing harmful nutrition practices.
Abiodun, who was represented by Dr Yinka Elemide, wife of the state assembly’s Speaker, noted that the state’s exclusive breastfeeding percentage was only 33.2 per cent, a significant distance from the World Health Assembly’s 2030 target of 70 per cent.
She argued that the low national and state support for exclusive breastfeeding could be linked to the rising social and economic instabilities which had left many nursing mothers with little time to devote to breastfeeding their children.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, noted that the week was celebrated to remind mothers, stakeholders, and the government of the need to join in advocating exclusive breastfeeding.
Coker, represented by the Executive Secretary of the state Primary Healthcare Board, Dr Elijah Ogunsola, stated that the health of the mother and child was of utmost importance to the government.
“My advice is for all stakeholders to use this week to reflect and see that we have an advantage created by God and it is not affected by the dollar or the economy so we should not starve our children,” she said.
Coordinator of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Mrs Victoria Adebiyi, commended Ogun for joining the global celebration, maintaining that every child deserved to be well nourished.
Adebiyi asserted that mothers should be educated and prepared mentally and emotionally from the beginning of their pregnancy.
Success and significance are two sides of the same coin. While success often refers to achieving your goals and reaching a desired state, significance delves deeper, asking if your achievements have a positive impact on the world. The ABCD of success and significance provides a foundational framework to navigate this journey.
A: Action – The spark of progress
The first step on the path to success and significance is action. It is the catalyst that transforms dreams into reality. Ideas and aspirations remain just that without the spark of action. Taking action, however small, sets the wheels in motion. It can be starting that online course you’ve been eyeing, making that first sales call, or simply writing down your goals.
Action is not a one-time event; it’s a continuous process. It’s the daily grind, the consistent effort put towards achieving your goals. Whether it’s an hour of dedicated work each day or a few focused sprints throughout the week, action is what bridges the gap between intention and achievement.
However, action alone isn’t enough. It needs direction. This is where belief comes in.
B: Belief – The fuel for action
Belief is the unwavering conviction in your ability to achieve your goals. It’s the inner voice that whispers, “You can do this”, even when faced with challenges. It fuels your dedication and provides the resilience to overcome obstacles.
Belief doesn’t always come easily. Doubts and insecurities can creep in, especially when faced with setbacks. Building belief is an ongoing process. Here are some ways to cultivate a strong belief system:
Visualise success: Imagine yourself achieving your goals. Vividly picture the details of your success and use this mental image as a source of motivation.
Focus on your strengths: Acknowledge your skills and talents. Remind yourself of past accomplishments to build confidence in your abilities.
Learn from setbacks: Don’t view failures as final. They are stepping stones on the path to success. Analyse what went wrong, learn from it, and adapt your approach.
Surround yourself with positivity: Associate with people who believe in you and inspire you. Their encouragement can be a powerful source of motivation.
C: Consistency – The pathway to mastery
Consistency is the steady and unwavering application of effort towards your goals. It’s the daily showing up, even when you don’t feel like it. It’s about progress, not perfection. Small, consistent steps taken over time lead to significant results.
Think of success and significance as marathons, not sprints. Consistency is the key to building the endurance and stamina needed to run the long race. Here are some tips for building consistency:
Set realistic goals: Break down your big goals into smaller, achievable milestones. This makes the journey seem less daunting and keeps you motivated.
Develop routines: Schedule dedicated time for working towards your goals. Make it a consistent habit, just like brushing your teeth.
Track your progress: Monitor your progress towards your goals. Seeing your accomplishments, however small, can be highly motivating and reinforce consistent action.
Reward yourself: Celebrate your achievements, big and small. Acknowledging progress keeps you motivated and reinforces positive habits.
D: Discipline – The master of focus
Discipline is the ability to control your actions and emotions in pursuit of your goals. It’s saying no to distractions and temptations that can derail your progress. Discipline requires focus, commitment, and the ability to prioritize.
Developing discipline can be challenging, but it’s a crucial component of success and significance. Here are some ways to cultivate discipline:
Minimise distractions: Identify and minimise distractions that can derail your focus. This could mean turning off notifications, finding a quiet workspace, or informing others of your dedicated work time.
Prioritise ruthlessly: Not all tasks are created equal. Identify the most important tasks that move you closer to your goals and focus on them first.
Develop self-awareness: Recognise your triggers for procrastination or impulsive behaviour. Develop strategies to address them proactively.
Embrace delayed gratification: Success rarely happens overnight. Learn to focus on the long-term benefits rather than immediate gratification.
Adding significance to success
While achieving your goals is an important part of success, leaving a positive impact on the world adds a layer of significance. Look for ways to use your skills and talents to benefit others. This could involve volunteering your time, mentoring others, creating products or services.
ACTION PLAN: Take action consistently with discipline in your drive to achieve success and significance.
AFFIRMATION: I am action-oriented. I believe in myself. I am consistent and disciplined in my drive for success and significance. I am blessed and highly-favoured.
Sesan Kareem is the visionary founder of Hubpharm Africa, www.hubpharmafrica.com and principal consultant, Sesan Kareem Institute, www.sesankareem.com.ng. He facilitates with clarity, conviction and calmness, moving leaders from success to significance.
– As Okoli, Awosika, Zamba, others win 2024 EWAH Awards
Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, receiving an award plaque and certificate from Pharm. (Mrs) Clare Omatseye, chairperson of EWAH’s Advisory Board; Sir Stanley Evans, past president of the British Business Group; and Pharm. (Mrs) Bisi Bright, Regional Representative for EWAH Awards Africa, at the EWAH Awards 2024 in Lagos.
The Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, has emphasised that increased participation of women in healthcare would enhance healthcare delivery in the country. She encouraged women to strive for excellence in healthcare and all spheres of life to overcome the disadvantages they often face.
According to her, women frequently need to exceed the efforts of men to gain recognition. Nonetheless, many women have successfully broken barriers and achieved significant accomplishments.
The deputy governor expressed these views at the 2024 Extraordinary Women Advancing Healthcare Awards (EWAH 2024), recently held at Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos. At the event, Dr Balarabe and nine other Nigerian women were honoured for their substantial contributions to the Nigerian healthcare sector.
Speaking to fellow award recipients, Balarabe, who has 30 years of experience in public health and has excelled as a public health physician, consultant, administrator, and politician, expressed deep appreciation for the recognition. She noted that it would motivate the awardees to continue their efforts.
“We have given our best, but we know that it is still not enough, considering the current state of affairs in Nigeria. Therefore, we will continue to work even harder because failure is not an option. This award is a torch that we carry, and I hope it will continue to illuminate our path,” she said.
She also encouraged the younger generation, stating, “Your dreams can come true. Never let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve your goals. On behalf of all awardees, we pledge to continue working tirelessly for the betterment of health and the greater good of Nigeria.”
In her welcome address, Pharm. (Mrs) Clare Omatseye, chairperson of EWAH’s Advisory Board and CEO of JNCI Limited, highlighted that the stories of the 10 outstanding awardees would serve as inspiration for other women. She noted that EWAH is a programme under the Commonwealth Institute, now known as the Women’s Edge, designed to highlight the inequities in the health system, particularly at leadership levels.
According to Omatseye, this second edition of the award series honoured 10 exceptional women who have made significant strides in various healthcare fields. The EWAH Award aims to inspire more women to pursue careers in healthcare and leadership roles.
Omatseye stressed that EWAH is more than just an award ceremony; it serves as a powerful call to action for all stakeholders in the Nigerian healthcare system. She emphasised the need for increased investment in healthcare education, especially in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) for young women.
In his speech, Sir Stanley Evans MBE, Past President of the British Business Group, remarked that the EWAH Awards are distinct from most conventional awards. The awardees do not necessarily have to be healthcare professionals themselves; the awards recognise women who have made impactful contributions across various aspects of healthcare, from public health and policy to community health education and leadership, and from academia and research to healthcare industry manufacturing and distribution.
Evans continued, “Behind every successful man is a woman. My mother once told me that if you want a job done properly, get a woman to do it. We’ve just had an election in Britain, and I’m delighted to inform you that, for the first time in our history, 40 per cent of the politicians elected were female. What we’ve witnessed this evening is the beginning of something truly great.”
Also speaking at the event, Pharm. (Mrs) Bisi Bright, CEO of LiveWell Initiative and regional representative for EWAH Awards Africa, stated that the primary purpose of the Awards is to create national and international recognition for emerging, dynamic healthcare leaders who are women. She noted that the Awards celebrate and appreciate the power of women to change the world.
According to Bright, a key aspect of the EWAH Awards is the “miles-to-go mindset,” which acknowledges women who are not only making a difference today but are also committed to continuous improvement. Unlike typical awards with public nominations and voting, the EWAH Awards feature a curated selection process to identify exceptional women across various healthcare roles, from community health workers to medical professionals and community leaders.
A total of 10 women healthcare leaders were honoured at the event. They included Dr Stella Okoli, founder and group managing director of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, Deputy Governor of Kaduna State and the first female Deputy Governor in the state; Fola Laoye, an alumnus of Harvard Business School and co-founder and CEO of Iwosan Investments.
Other honourees were Dr Ajoritsedere Awosika, a Nigerian businesswoman and honorary consul general to The Hague, Netherlands; Dr Temitope Ilori, the first female director-general of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS in Nigeria (NACA); Pharm. Zainab Ujudud Shariff, founder of Nigeria’s first Herbal Pharmacy; Dr Emmanuella Zamba, permanent secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA); Mrs Nkeiruka Obi, vice-president and regional director for Africa at Smile Train; Mrs Lois Auta, a disability inclusion and development expert; and Edidiong Okon Asanga, recently named among the Top 100 Nurses worldwide by the Commonwealth Nurses Association.
One evening, in March 2023, I was walking back to my house when I sighted two cars ahead, with a man and a woman standing face-to-face in a heated confrontation. When I got closer, I realised that the argument was about the hitting and denting of the man’s car. I listened keenly to both of them and concluded that the lady was at fault as she had hit the man’s car from behind. Then God asked me to intervene and resolve their problem.
It was getting dark, maybe around 6.45pm. I told the lady that she was at fault and should actually apologise to the man. I then turned to the man and asked him to let the lady go, as I would fully bear the responsibility for repairing his car to his satisfaction. The lady was dumbfounded but the man said that the car belonged to his master and he was just his driver. Then I assured him that I would speak to his master but the lady was free to go.
With hesitation and doubt, the lady entered her car. She appeared not to be sure of what I said I would do. I asked the driver about the owner of the car and he mentioned the name of a prominent pastor of a big church in Anthony Village. He immediately called the pastor and started reporting the incident to him. As he did, I beckoned to him to follow me to my office. They discussed for a long time in Yoruba and, of course, I did not understand them.
Eventually, his master asked him to hand over the phone to me. We exchanged greetings and I introduced myself to him. After that, he asked, “Why did you ask the lady to go and why did you offer to bear the cost of the repairs? Do you know her?” I replied that I had never met either the lady or the driver before, but the Spirit of God had directed me to resolve their problem, maintain peace and set them free. Moreover, the incident had happened in front of my premises and I did not want any fracas around me.
He asked, “Do you mean that you will repair the car for me?” “Yes, I will repair it to your satisfaction to maintain peace.” I answered. Still surprised, the man repeated his previous question, “Do you know this lady?” I replied again that I had never met her and could not recognise her if I saw her again.
The pastor kept quiet for a while and then said, “I will repair my car myself; let the driver bring it.” I thanked him very well for relieving me of that financial burden and asked for his name and phone number. I then handed over the phone to the driver after chatting with his master. He said goodnight to me and stepped out of my office.
That incident ended peacefully that evening. Since then, I have never met the lady or the driver and would not even recognise them, if I see them. Same goes for the pastor. I spoke with him only that night and we have never talked again or met each other. But that experience will be remembered for a long time.by each of us involved.
This reminds me of the sacrifice our Lord Jesus Christ made for us. I Peter 2:24 says, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness…” Jesus died on the cross for our sins and not His own because He was sinless. I was ready to suffer a heavy financial loss because of an accident that did not concern me.
Thank God that the pastor decided to bear the cost of the repairs of the car himself. I believe that, just as God had asked me to bear the cost, He had also asked the pastor to take off the burden from me. To me, it was like when God asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. God just tested his faith. I was ready to spend a good amount of money on that car, but God had only put me to that test, so I could broker peace between the lady and the driver. Nobody knows how their arguments might have ended that night. But my intervention brought peace.
In Matthew 5:9, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, because they will be called sons of God.” Peacemakers reconcile people to God and to one another. Today, peacemakers are needed all over the world.
– As Lagos mandates health insurance to access public services
Healthcare professionals across Nigeria have called for the enforcement of compulsory health insurance nationwide, asserting that it is the surest way for Nigerians to access quality healthcare services. This move, they believe, will help the nation achieve universal health coverage.
At the Afrihealth Conference and Exhibition, held in Lagos from 3-5 July, 2024, professionals expressed concerns over the low enrolment rates in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), managed by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). They emphasised that quality healthcare is expensive, and only a few privileged individuals can afford it. However, with health insurance, everyone can access quality healthcare as it ensures adequate financing.
The NHIA Act 2022 mandates all Nigerian residents to obtain health insurance, covering public and private sector employees and informal sector workers. Despite this, enrolment remains low, undermining the scheme’s effectiveness. Healthcare professionals are calling for the act’s enforcement to increase the number of enrolees, which they argue is crucial for the scheme’s success.
A major point of contention is the government-set capitation rate. Capitation is a fixed amount of money per patient per unit of time paid in advance to physicians for healthcare services. The last capitation under the NHIS was N750, temporarily increased by 60 per cent in July. However, professionals argue this is still insufficient.
Dr Chijioke Mbelu, convener of the Afrihealth Conference, urged NHIA to launch a massive enlightenment campaign to encourage people to enrol in health insurance.
Also speaking, Dr Jimmy Arigbabuwo, national president of the Healthcare Provider’s Association of Nigeria (HCPAN), stated that healthcare financing can be cumbersome, stressing that health insurance is the best way to reduce out-of-pocket payments for medical care.
Prof. Emem Bassey, chief medical director of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, noted that only N1.3 trillion, or about 4.7 per cent of the 2024 budget, is allocated to health, far short of the 15 per cent Abuja Declaration target. He argued that the capitation rate should not be less than N10,000 given Nigeria’s current economic realities.
Bassey, who is also chairman of all chief medical directors in Nigeria, said the major reason government hospitals are owing pharmaceutical companies is because of the consumption from NHIA enrolees, adding however that the agency is not paying the hospitals enough as and when due.
The CMD further called for the establishment of a Health Tertiary Development Fund, just like Tetfund that is aiding infrastructural development in education.
Dr Kayode Adesola, national president of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP), reported that only 3.526 million Nigerians were enrolled in the NHIS as of June 30, 2024, which he described as abysmal. He mentioned that a temporary 60 per cent increase in capitation and 40 per cent increase in Fee-for-Service (FFS) payments were negotiated in July, but these adjustments are set to expire in September 2024.
Dr Makinde Akinlemibola, chairman of the Lagos State chapter of ANPMP, stressed that mandatory health insurance is essential for affordable quality healthcare financing.
Pharm. Biola Paul-Ozieh, Chairman of the Healthcare Provider Association of Nigeria, Lagos Chapter, called for greater commitment from the government and more advocacy from the NHIA to boost enrolments.
According to her, “Healthcare providers should have one unified voice and segregation of facilities, so as to make health insurance work. Since 2022, when the NHIA act was signed, we have not moved fast enough. Even though the DG of NHIA has been trying since he took over a few months ago, everybody must be part of the health insurance scheme. Today, I don’t know how many pharmacists are still operating under NHIA because when they supply drugs, they are not being paid.”
Pharm. Dr. David Ehikhuemen, Managing Director of Caremax Nigeria Limited, emphasized that NHIA is crucial for healthcare financing in Nigeria and must be made compulsory. Mrs. Aisha Haruna Abubakar, Coordinator of the Lagos State Office, NHIA, reiterated that the NHIA Act, passed in 2022, should be enforced, and all Nigerians must cooperate to ensure its success.
Pharm. Wale Oladigbolu, Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), urged the federal government to investigate NHIA’s activities to make the scheme more beneficial for Nigerians. He pointed out the poor coverage of health insurance, with less than 5% of the population covered.
He said, “The reality of health insurance in Nigeria is quite dismal. Coverage is poor, with less than 5 percent of the population covered. Out of this, 4 percent are in public service and the remaining 1 percent are in private service.”
He said, “Paying capitation for 1,000 patients every month regardless of the actual number seeking treatment is not sustainable. Facilities without pharmacists are being paid for drugs, which shortchanges patients by not providing the requisite oversight from pharmacists.”
In response to these issues, Lagos State has implemented compulsory health insurance. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu issued an executive order requiring all ministries, departments, and agencies to provide services only to those enrolled in the health plan provided by the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) or other Lagos State NHIA-accredited private health insurance providers.
He added that the exception to this are life-threatening situations. “In emergencies, healthcare facilities must stabilise patients without requiring evidence of insurance. However, once stabilised, patients must provide proof of enrollment or register,” the governor said.
This order, effective from July 16, mandates full compliance to ensure quality healthcare services for all residents, regardless of their financial status.
How much fat is too much fat, especially when it poses a risk for diabetes? Is there a real relationship between obesity and type 2 diabetes, or is this a myth?
Diabetes is a disease marked by high blood glucose, due to defects in insulin production or action, or both. There are type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90 per cent of all diagnosed cases. It typically starts as insulin resistance, where the cells don’t use insulin well. As it progresses and the demand for insulin rises, the pancreas loses its ability to produce insulin
Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that is characterised by an excessive accumulation of adipose tissue to the point that it affects both physical and psychosocial health. It is considered a health crisis globally. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most common tool for defining obesity. It measures average body weight against average body height. Generally, a BMI of 35 is associated with obesity.
Obesity has been found to be associated with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and fatty liver diseases.
Exploring “diabesity”: Obesity-dependent diabetes
Excess body weight and obesity are significant risk factors for type 2 diabetes. The mechanisms linking both are complex and involve several physiological processes.
The accumulation of an excessive amount of body fat triggers a myriad of metabolic abnormalities and diseases, including insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia (high plasma triglyceride and low plasma HDL-cholesterol concentrations), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, β cell dysfunction, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes. In general, a progressive increase in BMI is associated with a progressive increase in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Excess body fat, particularly visceral fat stored around the abdomen, leads to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is when the cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. As a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar and, eventually, type 2 diabetes.
The degree of insulin resistance and the incidence of type 2 diabetes is highest in a person with an “apple” shape (abdominal subcutaneous and intra-abdominal fat). These persons carry the majority of their excess body weight around their abdomen. In contrast, the “pear” shaped person carries most of their weight in the hips and thighs (gluteofemoral fat), which is less likely associated with insulin resistance.
The lifetime risk of diabetes in men above 18 years increases from 7 per cent to 70 per cent, when BMI increases from less than 18.5 kg/m to more than 35 kg/m. Same with females, with an increase from 12 per cent to 74% with the same BMI values.
Research has shown that obese individuals are up to 80 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those with a healthy weight. The excess fat tissue in obese individuals secretes various substances, including inflammatory cytokines and free fatty acids, which can interfere with insulin signalling pathways. This creates a vicious cycle where rising insulin resistance leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which promotes further weight gain and inflammation.
Therefore, treating obesity is crucial in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes; weight loss results in a significant reduction in the incidence of diabetes in at-risk populations.
Conclusion
The relationship between diabetes and obesity is not a myth; both are deeply linked, giving rise to the term “diabesity”. This dual condition poses significant challenges and presents opportunities for healthcare providers to make a profound impact. In next month’s edition, we will explore the role of healthcare providers in turning the tides on diabesity.
References
Yashi K, Daley SF. Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. [Updated 2023 Jun 19]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK592412/
Samuel Klein, Amalia Gastaldelli, Hannele Yki-Järvinen, Philipp E. Scherer, Why does obesity cause diabetes?, Cell Metabolism,Volume 34, Issue 1, 2022, Pages 11-20,ISSN 1550-4131,https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2021.12.012.
Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, addressing the management team at NIMR on Friday, while the out-going DG, listens.
The newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa has pledged his commitment to serve Nigerians heartily in his new office, as he sought the full support of staff members and the Federal Government to succeed in the role. He said he has no intention to invent a new wheel in the institute, but to build on the solid foundation already laid by his predecessor.
Recall that Obafunwa, a former Vice -Chancellor of the Lagos State University, Ojo, was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the new CEO of NIMR on 22 July, 2024, and he was to succeed the outgoing DG, Prof. Babatunde Lawal Salako, whose tenure ended on 23 July, 2024.
Prof. Obafunwa, who received the paraphernalia of office on Friday, at the official handover ceremony organised by his predecessor at the institute, assured the management team of his willingness to work with all staff members for the progress of NIMR, and the wellbeing of all Nigerians. He pleaded with them for their cooperation, assuring he won’t be a disappointment, if given the chance to work together for progress.
Outgoing NIMR DG, Prof. Babatunde Lawal Salako, presenting the report of the institute’s achievements to the new DG, Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, at the official hand-over ceremony on Friday.
“I won’t be a disappointment to you and by extension to all Nigerians. Just give me a chance to work and all will be well.
“My intention here is not to re-invent the wheel, I will consolidate on the good foundation already laid by my predecessor. I love diligence, hard work and punctuality.
“I love excellence and I have been told that everyone here love that too. I strongly believe that we will achieve a lot if you will give me the chance to work. I respect people a lot and I will never be rude to anybody”, he promised.
Introducing the new DG to the management team earlier, Prof. Salako described him as a disciplinarian who does not condone laziness and indolence from staff members, but not a difficult person to work with. Nonetheless, he noted that he had explained to him the nature of staff he will be relating with, and to get the best of them.
Salako, who narrated his intimate discussion with Obafunwa prior to the meeting, said the first thing he did for his successor on meeting him in office today was to pray for his success, as he wishes to hear of the progress of the institute a couple of years later. And to achieve that success, he mentioned to Obafunwa that the cooperation of the staff members is sacrosanct.
The outgoing NIMR DG sought the holistic support of all the staff members for Obafunwa, saying that although he is the head of the institution, and the bulk stops at his desk, but he can’t perform everyone’s roles in the institute. So he needs all hands to be on deck for the attained height in the institute to be sustained.
Prof. Salako said, ” The first thing I did for him this morning was to pray for him in my office, and to say that I would like to hear that NIMR is better than when Salako was there. That it is not a compliment for me to say that since Salako left, the place has gone down. It means we did not put down a solid structure that he can build on. I told him that one on one, and I believe that he understands deeply what I meant by that. And because of that, I am soliciting your support for the DG.
“Prof. comes with a big pack of experience in terms of administration and dealing with people and students who may even be the most troublesome. My observation is that the professor is a strict person in terms of being strict. You know what that means, and that is probably why you read all sorts of things. Some people don’t like to fall in line, and he doesn’t like people who don’t fall in line. Thus, the way to relate better with him to fall in line.
“And I’m saying this so that you will understand the terrain that you are going to be dealing with. That is not going to come as a rude shock to you. So, you won’t start on a negative note in relating with him. But when you know people, and you understand them, and you respect that principle, you are very, very unlikely to run into trouble with them. And they are also unlikely to run into trouble with you. For him, I’ve also told him that he has to ensure that those principles do remain, but they are a little less tight.”
Prof. Salako also tasked the staff members on honest communication with their new leader, in the interest of all Nigerians and that of NIMR, because he has the mandate of the nation to make the institute productive in enhancing the health of the nation, through innovative research and discoveries.
In commemoration of the World Breastfeeding Week, which is annually marked from 1 to 7 August, UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have called for equitable access to breastfeeding support, underscoring its critical role in improving global health outcomes.
A joint statement by Catherine Russell, UNICEF executive director, and Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, highlighted the significant progress in exclusive breastfeeding rates over the past twelve years, which have increased by over 10 per cent, now benefiting 48 per cent of infants under six months worldwide.
Despite this progress, they agreed that reaching the WHO’s target of 50 per cent exclusive breastfeeding by 2025 remains challenging. Enhanced breastfeeding support could potentially save over 820,000 children’s lives annually. Breastfeeding offers critical antibodies that protect infants from illness and death, especially in emergency situations, while also reducing the risk of certain cancers and noncommunicable diseases in mothers.
With the theme, “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all,” this year’s World Breastfeeding Week focuses on reducing health inequities and ensuring the rights of mothers and babies to thrive. Approximately 4.5 billion people lack comprehensive essential health services, leaving many women without the necessary support to breastfeed effectively. Access to trained health professionals and consistent, empathetic counseling is vital throughout the breastfeeding journey.
They maintained that accurate data collection is essential for addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring effective breastfeeding support. Currently, only half of the world’s countries collect breastfeeding data, noting that reliable data on policy actions such as family-friendly employment policies, regulation of breastmilk substitute marketing, and investment in breastfeeding is crucial for informed decision-making and program effectiveness.
The duo of Russell and Ghebreyesus emphasised the shared responsibility of families, communities, healthcare workers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in promoting and supporting breastfeeding.
They called for further advocacy for key actions like implementation of family-friendly workplace policies, including paid maternity leave and breastfeeding breaks, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes and so on.
The Nigeria Medical Association, Kwara State Chapter, on Tuesday, alerted that only 650 medical doctors attend to over 3.6 million population in the state.
The state’s NMA Chairman, Dr Ola Ahmed, stated this in Ilorin during a news conference ahead of the 2024 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the association.
Ahmed, who is rounding up his two-year tenure as chairman, said that despite many achievements recorded in the sector, the challenge of the dearth of healthcare workers was cause for concern.
The NMA chairman said that health workers in their multitudes continue to leave for greener pastures outside the state and the country for various reasons.
“A lot of our colleagues have been lost to brain drain in the name of Japa. This has affected the delivery of services to the populace.
“Apart from economic hardship, insecurity, and poor medical infrastructures are some of the other reasons for the migration of doctors and other health workers from the state and the country at large,” he said.
Ahmed, however, commended the state governor, AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq, for the huge investment in healthcare delivery in the state.
He pointed out that AbdulRazaq also approved the consequential adjustment of members’ salaries as soon as it was approved while observing that the milestone would serve as motivation for its members to be committed and discourage “Japa.”
The chairman outlined various achievements of the association including contribution towards the establishment of Kwara State University Teaching Hospital.
“We achieved the approval and payment of the adjusted 2019 Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, Skipping and Medical Residency Training Fund,” he said.
Ahmed further said that the welfare of its members was paramount, as the Secretariat’s solar power system was upgraded, with dedicated internet service, and a furnished library was provided among others.
He explained that the activities of the 2024 Annual General Meetings include Medical Outreach to the state secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, a Scientific Conference, sports, and election.
He said that the theme of the conference is: “Relationship of Doctors with the Community: Improving the Community Perception of Doctors”.
Kaduna State University (KASU) recently held the 10th Annual Lecture Series in memory of the late Pharmacist Dahiru Suleiman Wali. The event took place on Tuesday, 23 July 2024, at the university’s 1000-seater auditorium.
The lecture themed, “The use of herbal medicine in pharmacy practice,” was delivered by Prof. Hajara Ibrahim from the Department of Pharmacognosy and Drug Development, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
She highlighted the essence of proper regulation of herbal medicines to prevent overdose, as she mentioned types and uses of herbal medicines for human well-being .
Also speaking at the programme, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Strategy, Innovation, and Service Delivery, Prof. Helen A. Andow, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, extolled the virtues of late Pharm. Wali’s commitment to human development, as she encouraged pharmacists to emulate the late pharmacist positive impact on humanity.
A cross-section of participants at the lecture
The Honourable Commissioner of Health, Kaduna State, Dr Aisha Anka, represented by Pharm. Daniel Doshu Nok emphasised the need for continued dedication to healthcare improvement and the crucial role of pharmacists in community health.
Chairman of the Book Project Committee, Prof. Ahmed Tijjani Mora, gave a brief biography of late Wali and an overview of the lecture series, which began in 2015. He highlighted Wali’s generosity, dedication, and love for humanity, noting his donation of half his book collection to the KASU Library.
In recognition of her excellent contributions to the success of the programme, Prof. Ibrahim was conferred with an Award of Excellence by the organising committee.
The former Commissioner of Information, Kano State, Alh. Salahudeen Na’ibi Wali, expressed gratitude on behalf of the family of late Wali to the Book Project Committee for maintaining their father’s legacy and appreciated the KASU Management as well as the university community for hosting the event.
A new report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) has asserted that close to 19 million adolescent girls globally would have experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence by the time they turn 20 years old. The report revealed that almost 1 in 6 girls experienced such violence in the past year.
Director of WHO’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research Department, Dr Pascale Allotey, highlighted the importance of this report, stating that this form of violence is alarmingly too early for millions of young girls around the world. She emphasised the need for this issue to receive urgent attention.
“Intimate partner violence is starting alarmingly early for millions of young women around the world.
“Partner violence can have devastating impacts on young people’s health, educational achievement, future relationships, and lifelong prospects. From a health perspective, it heightens the likelihood of injuries, depression, anxiety disorders, unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and many other physical and psychological conditions.
“Given that violence during these critical formative years can cause profound and lasting harms, it needs to be taken more seriously as a public health issue – with a focus on prevention and targeted support,” she stated.
The WHO report disclosed that intimate partner violence against adolescent girls is most common in lower-income countries and regions, in places where there are fewer girls in secondary school, and where girls have weaker legal property ownership and inheritance rights compared to men.
Child marriage (before the age of 18 years) significantly escalates risks, since spousal age differences create power imbalances, economic dependency, and social isolation – all of which increase the likelihood of enduring abuse.
The Author of the report, Dr Lynnmarie Sardinha, stressed on the need for countries to adopt preventive measures and policies to increase gender equality for women and girls.
She said, “The study shows that to end gender-based violence, countries need to have policies and programmes in place that increase equality for women and girls.
“This means ensuring secondary education for all girls, securing gender-equal property rights and ending harmful practices such as child marriage, which are often underpinned by the same inequitable gender norms that perpetuate violence against women and girls.
“Currently, no country is on track to eliminate violence against women and girls by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal target date. Ending child marriage – which affects 1 in 5 girls globally – and expanding girls’ access to secondary education will be critical factors for reducing partner violence against adolescent girls.”
Soybeans are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein, amino acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an attractive dietary choice. Recent studies have highlighted their significant role in managing menopausal symptoms.
Scientifically known as glycine max, soybeans are renowned for their high isoflavone content, which has the potential to manage and relieve menopausal issues.
Findings have shown that Isoflavones, phytoestrogens that mimic oestrogen in the body, are abundant in soybeans. Nutritionists have also validated that soybeans’ rich nutritional content and bioactive compounds underscore their importance in one’s diet, especially for women seeking natural relief from menopause challenges.
In a comprehensive review conducted by Yulia Fitri, and published in the Journal of Science Midwifery, the impact of soybean diet on hot flushes was analysed on over 1,700 women.
The analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in the frequency and severity of hot flushes among women who consumed soy products. Specifically, women with an initial frequency of five or more hot flushes per day experienced a notable reduction of approximately 5 per cent in symptoms for each additional hot flush initially reported.
Himanshi Khatri of Vivekananda Global University Jaipur and Sandeep singh of Jaipur National University refer to menopause as the cessation of menstruation, which is associated with various symptoms, including hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, typically occurring around age 51.
According to their review,these symptoms result from the body’s decreased production of oestrogen and can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has been effective in mitigating these symptoms but carries risks such as increased incidences of breast cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
However, a study led by James Anderson showed that soy protein intake can help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease.
In Nigeria, soybeans are majorly cultivated in the Middle Belt region and are used in various forms, including cooking oil, soya milk, soy powder, or made into a paste added to infants’ and children’s diets.
Including soybeans in one’s diet can offer multiple health benefits, particularly for menopausal women looking for natural ways to ease their symptoms. This aligns with the broader recognition of soybeans as a nutritional powerhouse, underscoring their importance in a balanced diet.
Further studies are encouraged to fully understand the long-term benefits and potential risks of high soy consumption.
A Paediatric Interventional Cardiologist, Prof. Adeola Animashaun, says awareness of blood pressure measurement among children should be increased, as some children have high blood pressure.
Animashaun said this during the 24th Scientific Conference and Annual General meeting of the Nigeria Hypertension Society on Tuesday in Lagos.
Hypertension, also known as high or raised blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood vessels have persistently raised pressure.
While speaking on the sub-theme, “Management of Hypertension in Children”, Animashaun said that various sensitisation and attention had been channeled to advising adults to check their blood pressure.
She stressed that measurement of children’s blood pressure shouldn’t be neglected.
According to her, since hypertension doesn’t often cause notable symptoms, it is important to have a child’s blood pressure checked at least once a year.
“In fact, guidelines say the blood pressure of any child above three years of age should be checked any time they go to the hospital for us to know their status early.
“For those that are less than three years of age, there are some of them that we also have to check early.
“Those that are born prematurely; those that have some procedure done for them around birth which we call umbilical catheterisation, and for those that have other illnesses, maybe heart problems, kidney problems.
“A major one is obesity, which is more prevalent in our environment now. Obesity is one of those conditions that comes with high blood pressure in children,” she said.
Animashaun noted that the measurement devices used for children are different from those used for adults, noting that it varied from age to age.
The professor disclosed that she conducted a survey involving pediatricians from across the country to inquire how many of them had blood pressure measurement devices for children in their hospitals.
She said that the survey was also to find out, if pediatricians that had blood pressure measurement devices for children in their hospitals actually utilised it.
“About 63 pediatricians from all over Nigeria responded, with the six geopolitical zones well represented.
“And in more than 50 per cent of the centres, which are majorly public hospitals, many of them don’t even have what’s used to measure blood pressure for neonates, for infants, and for younger children.
“Now, for those that have, up to one third do not even bother to check,” she said.
Animashaun emphasised that efforts should be intensified in sensitisation, training and retraining of health practitioners, and spreading the word to the community on checking blood pressure of children.
“When taking your child’s blood pressure at home, it’s important to use the correct sized cuff. A poor-fitting cuff may skew the results,” Animashaun said.
She said that screening of children would assist in early detection and prompt treatment to assist a child avoid further health issues associated with high blood pressure as they grow.
On treatment for high blood pressure, Animashaun suggested managing lifestyle factors such as diet, weight, physical activity and lower sodium intake.
She added that antihypertensive medication could also be used, if lifestyle changes alone do not lower the blood pressure.
Editor’s note: This is a continuation of our series of memoirs on the Igbo pharmacy students at the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University (Ibadan Campus), who had to choose between running for their lives when the Biafra war began or completing their degree programme.
The run from Ibadan to Asaba on 1 June, 1967 and then back to Ibadan into the B.Pharm exam hall the following day, was an experience better imagined.
We were very busy preparing for our examinations to start on 2 June 1967, but on 30 May, Gen. Ojukwu declared the Independent Republic of Biafra. Confusion set in among those of us from the East. After a brief meeting, we decided to return home. This meant abandoning the B.Pharm degree exam.
We went to inform the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Hezekiah Oluwasanmi, of our decision. He said that for the first time in his career, he found himself in a situation where he could not protect his students. He provided two buses with police escorts to take us to Asaba and also for those of us with our cars. Moses Azuike, Eugene Okonkwo and Bona Obiorah had their cars.
Later on, we realised that some Igbo students had chosen to remain in school. These included Azubike Chukwumerije, George Ezenwa, Peter Ekwunife, Edward Akagha and Ralph Enemmuo.
Reconsideration and return
When we got Benin to refuel, we found that Felix Agwaniru and Felix Anazodo were no longer with us. As we proceeded, some students in the lower classes, notably Evans Chidomere, appealed to those of us in the final year to return and write our exams. By the time we got to Asaba, we had decided to go back to Ibadan. Some of us that got to Asaba were Eugene Okonkwo, Bona Obiorah, Ifeanyi Atueyi, Pius Ogwueleka, Denis Okolo and Moses Azuike
Having resolved to return to Ibadan and write our exams, we (Eugene and Bonah) left our cars at a filling station after paying some money to them. We then took a station-wagon to return to Ibadan.On getting to Oluku Junction, in Benin, we found very heavy traffic, with soldiers mounting a checkpoint. It was already evening. Some of us went forward with our ID cards to plead with the soldiers to let our vehicle pass. Fortunately, they allowed us.
By the time we got to Ibadan in the morning, the first paper had started. After a lot of pressure on the Head of Department, he was able to get the vice-chancellor to allow us write the exam. When we entered the hall, some of the students who had stayed back could not raise their heads because of shame.
Happy ending
Finally, we wrote our B.Pharm exams. The last session was the viva and we pleaded to be called in early because the vehicle that would take us back to Asaba would arrive any time.
When we were done, we set off again. At Asaba, we dispersed to different places. Eugene and Bonah found that we could not take our cars to Biafra. So, we returned home without the cars.
Later on, the two of us went back to Asaba and observed that canoes were taking cars across the River Niger. We arranged for a big canoe that took us and our cars across the river to Onitsha. Once over, we drove to Bonah’s family home in Amawbia, where his father welcomed us with a big bundle of suya.
After a good rest, Eugene drove to Enugu, while Bonah remained at home for some time before also moving to Enugu. That experience was like a dream but it was real.
Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr Olajide Idris
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, inaugurated the National Infection Prevention and Control Technical Working Group (IPC-TWG) on Monday. The inauguration, he said aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage.
The minister stated that the IPC- TW group comprises of members from various sectors who will focus on designing a system that prioritises patient-centred care through collaboration, knowledge sharing, stakeholder engagements, and innovation.
Prof Pate, who was represented at the event by the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr Olajide Idris, noted that the primary role of the IPC-TWG is to reduce healthcare-associated infections and improve patient outcomes by strengthening the national infection prevention and control (IPC) plan.
He emphasised Nigeria’s resilience in disease prevention and outbreak containment, as demonstrated during the Ebola, Covid-19, and ongoing Cholera outbreaks. “Nigeria has shown resilience in disease prevention and outbreak containment,” Pate stated.
He highlighted the need for significant improvements to enhance the national IPC plan, leveraging the One Plan philosophy for better results.
Pate assured the working group of necessary resources and technical support to significantly reduce the burden of diseases and ensure a safer healthcare system in Nigeria.
“The IPC-TWG will serve as a national level indicator to track set precedence for other nations to follow.
“This marks the beginning of a crucial journey aimed at enhancing healthcare safety across Nigeria through actionable steps in Infection Prevention and Control,”Pate said.
In his speech, Prof. Pate appreciated the commitment of NCDC management and staff and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of development partners.
“Your brand is the single most important investment you can make in your business.” – Steve Forbes
Pause a while as you read this. Do you believe you are unique and specially made by God? Do you believe that your individuality is next to none? You must wake up daily and profess that you are special. This is a good way to introduce the topic on personal branding.
You can’t be everywhere!
The old saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none”, comes to mind when I talk about specialisation in personal branding. You can’t be everywhere and many things to everyone! I see specialisation as deciding what you want to do and focusing on it.
A typical football team is a good example of specialisation. Each player focuses on a task. Players play as midfielders, strikers, defenders, or goalkeepers. Everyone pays attention to his role to get the desired result. You can’t be a striker and the goalkeeper at the same time.
Specialisation is the way to go when you are setting out in personal branding. You need to start from somewhere and let people know where you are. Unless you are discussing diversification, it is ideal you stick to doing one thing at a time. Let your brand be known for one thing, especially at the beginning stage.
Where do you want to specialise? What do you know how to do? What do you want to be known for? You must take a decision on where you want to begin in your branding journey.
You must be intentional
I started my personal brand 12 years ago, as a sales author, sales training consultant and speaker, who wanted to position as the champion in the art of selling. I was intentional and consistent in pushing out the message of sales to my audience.
Presently, I have written eight significant books. Of these, three are sales books: “The Selling Champion”, “The Art of Selling”, and “The 25 Unbreakable Laws of Sales” – which is the most endorsed and most voluminous sales book by a Nigerian.
I write daily (Daily Motivation) on our online platforms. I have written over 3000 non-academic articles. I took sales talk show to radio, when I started The Selling Champion radio programme, on Radio One, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria. I wrote sales articles on popular magazines online and offline. I started annual sales masterclass for professionals and entrepreneurs. I started Nigeria Sales Conference, the biggest sales conference in Nigeria – that is hosted annually and admission is free!
I am a regular guest on popular TV and radio stations – where I talk about sales and books. I have been hosted on several occasions at orientation camps of National Youth Service Corps where I mentor corps members. I mentor thousands of salesmen and professionals on our professionals’ online platforms. I have trained several sales professionals during in-house training events for their companies. This makes me popular in the midst of the professionals.
I did the work aspect of personal branding because I believe it is the way to go. What are you doing to inscribe your name on the minds of your target audience? You must be intentional. You must do the work – whether you are a personal brand, product brand, service brand, or corporate brand.
Personal branding requires real work and you must be ready to define your path and go all out to achieve your goals.
Brand awareness is about consistency
Personal branding is a process that is unceasing. You must continue to invest the right efforts without giving up. Ensuring brand awareness is a function of being consistent in doing the right things. If you are strategic in your personal branding efforts, you will see the great results. Let’s look at the stages of brand awareness:
The brand recognition stage: This is the first time people see an ad material. They may or may not pay attention to it. But if the communication is consistent, your audience will begin to remember it.
The brand recall stage: Here you remember a company by seeing their branding elements. When you see the “Just Do It” tagline, the brand that will come to your mind is NIKE. It took a lot of consistent efforts to get to this level.
Top of mind awareness stage: Here, the brand is established in the minds of the target audience. The brand becomes talk of the town in the industry! This is where you should be.
Brand preference stage: This is where you move from just being famous to engraving your name in their minds. In positioning, I usually ask the question, how do you change the thought of the little child that the letter ‘‘A’’ is for ant, and not for apple? As we know, over time, teachers have consistently used apple as a word example for letter ‘‘A”. This is a good example of where consistency reinforces brand preference.
You must invest the right efforts within the right audience. You must be strategic, knowing what to do at all times.
Our Annual Masterclass. Register and attend our Annual Masterclass, South East Edition, tagged, The Path To Sales Excellence. Date: Saturday, 3rd August, 2024. Venue: Toscana Hotels, Independence Layout, Enugu. Fee: N65,000. Time:10am -3pm. South West Edition holds at Dover Hotels, 14 Aromire, Street, off Allen Junction, Ikeja – Lagos. Watch this space for details. For enquiries or payment details for South East Edition, please call, 07060559429, 08186086133. www.thesellingchampionconsulting.com.
Tight clothing (including tops, bottoms and underwear) have often been considered trendy among men, with many saying it gives them a smarter look and a more confident feel. Tight clothing is also worn during sporting activities for support and stability, as well as aerodynamics. However, there are also health effects that should be considered in wearing such clothing.
For example, studies have found that men who often wear tight underwear generally have more fragmented DNA and abnormal sperm health, compared to those who do not. This is because the underwear excessively increases the temperature of the scrotum, with the same effect as going into a hot tub or placing a laptop on your lap for long. Such high temperature has negative effects on sperm count, morphology, and vitality. This is why the scrotum is located outside the body in order to remain cooler than the rest of the body. For this reason, experts advise that wearing boxer briefs (which are relatively non-clingy) may be a better choice for those trying to have children in the nearest future.
Also, in a survey of 2,000 men by TENA (a Swedish-based company that specialises in products for adults with urinary or fecal incontinence), it was found that tight-fitting jeans can cause urinary tract infections, twisted testicles, bladder weakness and long-term health consequences in men. Results from the survey indicated that 50 per cent of men of the affected men experienced groin discomfort, more than 25 per cent suffered bladder problems, while one in five of rhw men experienced a twisted testicle.
Dr Hilary Jones, TENA brand ambassador and campaign spokesperson, explained further:
“Men who wear tight or ill-fitting trousers or underwear which is restrictive around the groin area could be damaging their health. Wearing tight-fitting clothing over a prolonged period of time can lead to urinary tract infections leading to over-activity of the bladder- a type of bladder weakness as well as a low sperm count and fungal infections.
“I have seen several cases of men who have twisted their testicles due to wearing jeans that are far too tight. My advice would be to make sure you leave plenty of room around the groin area and that your pants and trousers feel comfortable so you’re not being restricted in any way. Please don’t put style before health.”
Additionally, an expert clinical dietician, Michelle Rauch, has revealed that tight clothing, including neckties, can worsen gastrointestinal disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). According to her, “Tight-fitting clothes have the capacity, when ‘too tight,’ to put additional stress on the stomach and intestines.” She added that this can worsen symptoms, like acid reflux and heartburn, stressing that, over the long term, repeated acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions, like oesophagitis, which can make swallowing painful and difficult.
Generally, the negative effects of tight clothing on men include:
Circulation problems. Tight clothing can restrict blood flow, leading to numbness and tingling in extremities.
Fungal infections. Tight clothing produced using synthetic fibres which do not alow for free airflow can create a warm atmosphere, giving rise to fungi growth leading to infections such as jock foot or athlete’s foot. The tightness of the clothing restricts airflow to the body which causes heavy perspiration around the groin.
Varicoceles. Tight-fitting clothing can contribute to the development or exacerbation of varicoceles which are swollen veins in the scrotum. It can also impact on the production, quality of sperm further affecting male fertility.
Urinary tract issues. This can also constitute pressure on the urinary tract infections or frequent urination. It leads to over-activity or weakness of the bladder.
Lower sperm count. This can happen as the testicles twist or lack breathing room to function properly.
Irritation and chafing. Tight clothing can rub against the skin, causing irritation and chafing, especially in areas where the skin rubs together such as inner thighs, under arms.
Impaired physical activity and general health. Tight clothing leads to difficulty in different activities (walking, jogging, and working). It can cause numbness, blood clotting, abdominal pain, indigestion, constipation and so on.
It should be noted that occasionally wearing tight-fitting clothing will likely lead to serious health effects but wearing them repeatedly can lead to more negative and lasting effects.
Pharm. Luke Adeeko is an octogenarian pharmacist and Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN). Now a resident of the United States, Adeeko shares some of his life experiences, including his background, education and the highlights of his career, with Moses Dike. Excerpts:
It is our pleasure to welcome you to our Senior Citizen column. Kindly tell us about yourself, your childhood experiences, education and the events that have helped to shape your adult personality.
My name is Luke Bolade Adeeko. I was born on 18 October 1943, in Abeokuta, capital of the present day Ogun State. I am the third of eight children of my late parents – Mr Lawrence and Mrs Sabina Adeeko. I am a Christian of the catholic denomination.
I started my primary school education in 1950, at St. Augustine Primary School, Itesi, Abeokuta. My primary school sojourn continued at St. Thomas Primary School, Kano, from 1951 to 1953; then St. Matthias Primary School, Lafiaji, Lagos from 1954 to 1956, and ending in Abeokuta in 1956.
I gained admission into two secondary schools in 1957. However, my father, being the staunch Catholic he was, insisted I must attend a Catholic secondary school. In order to repeat entrance examinations in 1957, he enrolled me in a Catholic “modern” school. Luckily for me, I gained admission into Loyola College, Ibadan. I was at Loyola College from 1958 to 1964 for my WAEC and HSC.
In 1965, I worked as a technical assistant at the then WNTV/WNBS (Western Nigerian TV/Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service), Ibadan. I taught Chemistry and Maths for nine months in 1966. In that same 1966, I got admitted to the then University of Ife (Ibadan Campus) to study Pharmacy. I graduated in 1970.
Part of my childhood experiences included having to go with my dad on his numerous transfers as a produce examiner. This took me to various towns and cities in the old Western Region, old Northern Region and the Lagos Colony, as it was known then.
My working at WNTV in 1965 was an eye-opening experience for me, as I had to save to kick-start funding my education at Ife, having lost my dad three months to WAEC examination in 1962. This influenced my prudent financial management in later years.
The most profound experience that helped the most in shaping my adult life and personality was the very strict moral, intellectual and religious discipline I got during my years at Loyola College. They were very profound.
As an octogenarian, how has age affected your lifestyle and how are you adjusting to the realities of old age?
Becoming an octogenarian has not really affected my lifestyle per se. Lifestyle entails what you do, engage in, or are known for, positively or negatively. For example, I have never used any form of tobacco in my life. I am a teetotaler, and I still profess my Catholic faith to date.
Ageing, however, forces some changes on you – if you want to live a long, healthy life, with God’s help, mercy and protection. You have to adjust your food – what you eat, the quality and quantity of what you eat, and when you eat.
You have to adjust your sleep schedule. Get used to and adjust to the sometimes uncomfortable, unavoidable, age-related ailments and how to manage them. Get tuned to exercises to keep cracking bones and aching body in good shape.
What informed your choice of Pharmacy as a career? Did you have role models back then who motivated you to take the decision?
I did not have any role model back then that influenced my choice of Pharmacy as a career. It was a decision I made myself – the result of a career talk we had in my final year in secondary school.
In fact, my love for Pharmacy as a career was so strong that I didn’t mind doing a one year pre-Pharmacy programme, called “Prelim” in those days. This was because I had grade E in Physics in my HSC final exam.
Can you tell us a little about your professional career, especially the most memorable moments? Why are these moments important to you?
I graduated in 1970 and did my one year pre-registration internship with the then Glaxo Nigeria Ltd., in Apapa, Lagos. After my internship, I joined the then Ciba-Geigy Nigeria Ltd., as a medical representative, rising through the ranks to become the marketing manager. That was the position I held till I left the company in 1981. I started Subola Pharmacy Ltd, a wholesale and retail pharmaceutical company in 1982.
My years with Ciba-Geigy were very memorable. The company was reputable for its very strict policy then, of engaging only pharmacists as medical reps. I had very thorough, in-depth, training – both locally and abroad – in all aspects pharmaceutical sales and services, marketing and management. The knowledge acquired over those years stood me in good stead in managing my own company.
How active were you in Pharmacy-related activities?
During my professional career, I was involved in various pharmaceutical activities. I was a member of the Lagos State Task Force on Fake and Counterfeit Drugs and Unwholesome Foods, from year 2000 to 2013. I was a member of the Pharmaceutical Inspection Committee, representing Lagos State PSN, from 2000 to 2015.
I became a member of PSN Privileges Committee 1994. I was a member of PSN Law and Ethics Committee (from 2007 to 2009) and PSN Ad hoc Committee on 3rd M&B award for Excellence in Pharmacy (in 2007). I also received the Lagos State PSN Merit Award in 2000, and was presented with the Lagos State PSN Distinguished Pharmacist Award in 2006.
I was awarded PSN Fellowship in 2009 and between 2011 and 2014, I served as a member of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (PHCB).These were the high points of my professional career that were memorable.
My varied experiences in these positions gave me an insight into the problems bedevilling Pharmacy and pharmaceutical practice in Nigeria. The politics and intrigues of pharmaceutical and healthcare management in Lagos State, in particular, and Nigeria in general became clearer to me.
How do you relax? Tell us about some of the pastime activities and lifestyle modifications you have adopted to stay fit and active?
As I said earlier, ageing forces some lifestyle modifications on you. I relax mostly by reading and keeping abreast of social, political and professional events on social media to keep my brain alive and alert. Most importantly, I keep physically active to prevent atrophy of the joints and to enhance good blood flow through the body.
I take daily 30 minutes to one hour walk, to stay fit and reduce the risk of a fall, which can be deadly for geriatrics. Martin Luther King Jr once said, “If you can’t run, walk; if you can’t walk, crawl, but by all means keep moving”. This could be a panacea for many ailments of old age.
Tell us about your family. Did any of your children take after you to study Pharmacy or other health-related professions?
My wife of almost 50 years (we married 21 December 1974), is a 1976 graduate of the University of Lagos with B.Sc and M.Sc degrees in Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry, respectively. She worked with NAFDAC, under the Federal Ministry of Health for some years, before joining EXXONMOBIL, from where she retired as head/manager of Quality Assurance.
None of my three children is into Pharmacy. However, one of my two daughters took a B.Sc. degree in Nursing, after an earlier B.Sc. in Medical Lab. Technology. She is a clinical research nurse, working with research hospitals and pharmaceutical companies. The others are doing well in their non-medical areas of IT and travel and tours management.
Finally, given your wealth of experience, what advice would you like to give to the younger generation of pharmacists on how to make the best use of their calling as healthcare professionals to impact humanity positively?
As a very important and strategic link in the healthcare delivery chain, pharmacists should endeavour to play a role that will make such delivery seamless and worthwhile.
However, pharmacy practice in Nigeria has faced, and still faces challenges that have made professional and ethical service delivery a herculean task. These challenges have led some pharmacists, especially our younger ones, to engage in sharp, unethical, practices to make quick gains.
Our younger generation of pharmacists, especially those in hospital and retail practice, should strive at all times to be ethically professional in their service delivery. They are the mirror through which the public see, assess, and judge pharmacists and pharmacy practice. The welfare, well-being, and wellness of the general populace should be their primary objective. No cutting corners, and no sharp practices in order to make quick money. I would admonish them to make haste slowly.
Service built on honesty, integrity, and empathy will have a lasting impact on humanity, and leave an indelible positive trademark for pharmacists and the pharmacy profession. Honour, integrity and morality should be the hallmark of our service delivery as pharmacists to humanity. After all, what is life without honour? As the saying goes “ Life is honour; it ends when honour ends.”
President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Programme Management Unit under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII).
The presidency highlights that this initiative is set to ensure efficient, transparent, and accountable management of external grants dedicated to the nation’s health sector.
In a press release from the Federal Ministry of Health, it was disclosed that the newly established sector-wide Coordinating Office-Programme Management Unit (SCO-PMU), housed within the office of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, will oversee this ambitious project.
The SCO-PMU, to be led by Dr Muntaqa Umar Sadiq, as the national coordinator, will report to a Steering Committee/Ministerial Oversight Committee led by the Minister of Health. This committee will include high-level officials from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and key development partners.
The ministry of health noted, “The establishment of the SCO-PMU is a critical step towards ensuring that the substantial external grants mobilised for the NHSRII are managed with the utmost transparency and accountability. This will facilitate better health outcomes for all Nigerians.
“The SCO-PMU will function as the secretariat and execution arm of the NHSRII, with responsibilities encompassing programme management, monitoring and evaluation, and the oversight of Independent Verification Agents (IVAs).
“Additionally, the unit will handle fiduciary management to ensure the integrity of financial operations. This structure aims to enhance the implementation efficiency of health initiatives across the country,” the ministry stated.
Dr Sadiq’s academic credentials are equally impressive, with ongoing doctoral studies in public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, an M.Phil in Bioscience Enterprise from the University of Cambridge, and an MBBS from Imperial College London.
The NHSRII represents a bold and transformative approach to improving health outcomes in Nigeria.
The newly elected national chairman, Pharm. Ambrose Ezeh, in a warm embrace with his opponent and immediate past national vice-chairman, Pharm. Mrs Bridget Otote, immediately the results were announced.
It was a moment of glitz and glamour, mixed with emotion, as Pharm. Adewale Oladigbolu bowed out of office. Pharm. Ambrose Igwekanma Ezeh emerged as the winner of the tensely contested ACPN National Chairmanship Election.
The election, held on Friday, 26 July 2024, during the association’s Annual General Meeting at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, saw Ezeh, managing director of Rosemus Pharmacy, Lagos, score 312 votes. He beat his opponents, Pharm. Duke Otite, who received 273 votes, and Pharm. Bridget Otote, who garnered 196 votes.
According to the results announced by the Chairman of the ACPN Electoral Committee, Pharm. Shina Olayiwola from Kwara State, a total of 787 delegates were accredited and participated in the election. Ezeh, a community pharmacist in Lagos, edged out his opponents: Otite, the former chairman of ACPN, Edo State, and Otote, the immediate past national vice-chairman. Ezeh was declared the winner and presented with the certificate of office, having garnered the highest number of votes.
The election for the office of vice-president was also keenly contested, with Pharm. Adegboyega Oguntoye from Oyo State and Pharm. Jonah Okotie from Lagos locking horns. Oguntoye, a former chairman of PSN, Oyo State, scored 482 votes, defeating Okotie, a former secretary of Lagos ACPN, who scored 297.
The new ACPN leadership been sworn in after the declaration of the results.
The electoral committee announced that the remaining seven positions—national secretary, national assistant secretary, national treasurer, national financial secretary, national internal auditor, and national editor-in-chief—were contested unopposed. The following were elected: Pharm. (Mrs) Omokhafe Mary Ashore as secretary, Samuel Iyen as assistant national secretary, Babatunde Samuel as treasurer, Obiageri Ikwu as financial secretary, Luke Bokinyan as internal auditor, Hajiya Samira as editor-in-chief, Hanniel Chukwudi as national publicity secretary, and Pharm. Adewale Oladigbolu as IPNC.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected National Chairman of ACPN, Ezeh, thanked God for granting him success in the election. He appealed to all members of the association to forget pre-election differences and come together as one, noting that there was no victor nor loser in the election as all contestants aimed for the betterment of the association.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to stand before you today as the newly elected national chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria. This moment is a testament to the trust and confidence you have placed in me, and I pledge to serve with unwavering dedication and integrity. Our profession is at a critical juncture, facing both challenges and opportunities.
“Today, we will advocate for policies that enhance our practice, ensure the highest standard of care for our patients, and elevate the role of community pharmacies in Nigeria’s healthcare system. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my predecessors for their invaluable contributions and to all of you for your support. Let us move forward united, innovative, and committed to excellence.”
He continued, “To my co-contestants, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship throughout the election process. Your commitment, integrity, and professionalism have been truly inspiring. This journey has been a testament to our shared dedication to advancing the pharmacy profession and serving our communities.
“Regardless of the outcome, I am confident that our collective efforts will continue to drive positive change within our association. Thank you for your spirit of fair competition. It has been an honour to stand alongside such esteemed colleagues.”
The highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates and the swearing-in of the new executive, conducted by Pharm. Bunmi Ogundiran, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Oyo State, assisted by Pharm. Oladigbolu, the immediate past national chairman.
SHAPED: Making an Extraordinary Difference is a profound and enlightening concept that emphasises the tremendous and profound impact of exceptional leadership and selfless service in the perpetual process of shaping individuals and communities, with the ultimate goal of ushering in positive transformation. This concept embodies the pulsating essence of empowerment, as it ignites an unquenchable spark within the hearts and minds of those who dare to embrace it.
Through the magnetic force of influential leadership and genuine acts of service, individuals are enkindled with a remarkable sense of purpose and direction, propelling them towards the infinite realm of personal growth and societal advancement. Conversely, communities become vibrant tapestries woven with threads of unity, resilience, and collective progress. The alchemy of SHAPED transcends conventional boundaries, radiating an aura of inspiration and innovation, propelling us to transcend our limitations and strive towards a future imbued with boundless possibilities.
By wholeheartedly embracing and embodying the transformative principles of SHAPED, individuals have a unique opportunity to enrich significantly and elevate their lives beyond measure and make an indelible impact on the well-being and advancement of society as an interconnected whole. With a profound understanding and steadfast commitment to the principles of Self-improvement, Harmony, Achievement, Purpose, Empowerment, and Development, individuals embark on a remarkable journey that nurtures personal growth and fulfilment and fosters a profound sense of social responsibility and collective progress.
Through the unwavering application of SHAPED principles, individuals become catalysts of positive change, radiating their inner brilliance and positively influencing the world around them by creating a ripple effect of inspiration, compassion, and meaningful action. This transformative path empowers individuals to unlock their untapped potential, overcome challenges, and cultivate a life of purpose, joy, and authentic fulfilment, while simultaneously contributing their unique talents, skills, and passions to shape a brighter and more harmonious future for all.
Embracing the collective strength of SHAPED, individuals forge a powerful bond that intertwines personal growth and societal progress, creating a virtuous cycle of empowerment, altruism, and holistic betterment that echoes throughout generations to come. By truly embodying SHAPED, individuals emerge as beacons of light, illuminating the way for others and shaping a world where every individual thrives. The beauty of the human potential is fully realised.
With a paramount emphasis on fostering personal growth and facilitating positive transformation, the SHAPED framework wholeheartedly empowers individuals from all walks of life to unlock their inherent capabilities, surmount limitations, and reach unparalleled heights of their fullest potential, thereby enabling them to make meaningful and impactful contributions to the greater good of society at large.
Self-discovery and self-actualisation
Through a carefully curated amalgamation of specialised tools, personalised guidance, and unwavering support, the SHAPED framework provides an unparalleled platform for individuals to embark upon an awe-inspiring journey of self-discovery, self-actualisation, and self-transcendence, allowing them to carve out a lasting legacy that reverberates with unparalleled resonance across the realms of time and space.
Replete with an intricately woven tapestry of transformative strategies, holistic methodologies, and profound insights, the SHAPED framework acts as an indispensable compass that navigates individuals towards their unique purpose, ignites an unwavering desire for continuous growth and improvement, and propels them towards a harmonious existence, replete with fulfilment, prosperity, and well-being.
By becoming conscious co-creators of their reality, harnessing the immense power of intentionality, and embracing a growth-oriented mindset, individuals harness the sheer transformative force intrinsic within the SHAPED framework, bestowing upon them the unwavering conviction that they possess the capacity to transcend mediocrity, surmount every challenge, and create a profound impact that transcends the boundaries of their own lives, and resonates with the very essence of humanity’s collective evolution.
By diligently offering a well-organized and exceedingly thorough method to individual self-improvement and growth, SHAPED ardently equips each person with an expansive array of instruments and a resilient frame of thinking indispensable in attaining extraordinary progress and enduring constructive transformation.
SHAPED components
The “SHAPED” framework is an acronym representing a strategy for enhancing leadership capabilities. Each letter in “SHAPED” outlines a critical element that leaders can develop to make a significant impact within their organisations and teams.
Firstly, “S” stands for Strengths. Influential leaders understand and utilise their unique strengths, encouraging the cultivation of these strengths to enhance team morale and productivity.
Secondly, “H” represents the Heart. Successful leaders genuinely express passion for their work and empathise with their team members. Heart-centred leadership focuses on building relationships and creating an inclusive and supportive work environment.
Next, “A” stands for Ability to take Action. Leaders should be action-oriented, taking initiative and making decisions that drive progress. By being proactive, leaders inspire their teams to adopt a similar attitude towards work.
Following that, “P” represents Personality for Perseverance. Influential leaders face challenges with determination and persist through difficulties, demonstrating to the team the importance of engaging your personality to maintain focus and effort even in tough times.
Then, “E” represents Experience. Great leaders continuously learn from their experiences and apply these lessons to improve their leadership skills, emphasising the importance of diverse experiences in shaping well-rounded leadership.
Finally, “D” stands for Decision for Development. Leaders must be decisively dedicated to personal and professional development, seeking growth opportunities and fostering a culture of development within their teams.
Focusing on these areas can help leaders create a positive and productive organisational culture, leading to outstanding results and fostering growth and innovation. Let us now discuss in detail the concept of the SHAPED Framework to make an extraordinary difference in your leadership.
Special gifts
While there is no custom methodology to uncover a youngster’s exciting gifts and blessings, numerous standards are essential to any programme or philosophy that promises to do so. The most basic is the conviction that all kids have blessings to uncover. This supposition is principal, solid, and widespread.
Youngsters who are given the chance to use, or even essentially distinguish, their unique gifts will start to comprehend that their essence has esteem and reason. This, by itself, is the best blessing we can give somebody. The quest for extraordinary gifts, interests, and talents ought to occur in a climate that regards the conclusions and styles of the two kids and grown-ups. Likewise, youngsters should be offered types of assistance that perceive their unique gifts and necessities rather than administrations that push people towards gathering standards or practices.
Ultimately, in any climate where extraordinary gifts and capacity are being sought after and recognised, it is fundamental that kids and grown-ups feel a typical inclination, festivity, and happiness regarding the accomplishments and endowments of others. Close emotional connection demonstrates seeing oneself in an association with a more noteworthy reason. Through close emotional dependence, we can genuinely minister a lifestyle that shows extraordinary acts of kindness and social equity.
Influencing youngsters on a profound level is something unique. Significant issues can emerge when grown-ups endeavour to satisfy their longing for significance by impacting youngsters. When enjoyed exclusively for the delight and euphoria, it brings extraordinary practices that lead to individual and worldwide improvement. This requires considerable dedication and the time and space for personal reflection, petition, or hush. The grown-ups’ craving to make another age or ages of individuals only impacts the unique work the grown-ups are attempting to achieve. The two players can foster an authentic otherworldly association with the world by finding a genuine favourable place between a kid’s extraordinary potential and the grown-up’s obligation regarding otherworldly enlightenment.
By Prof. ‘Lere Baale, FPSN, FPCPharm, FNAPharm, FNIM
Witnesses and nearby residents of the collapsed building at 13 Wilson Mba Street, Arowojobe Estate, Maryland, Lagos, are struggling with severe psychological trauma in the aftermath of the tragic accident.
When our correspondent visited the site on Friday, some of the nearby residents who witnessed the unfortunate incident recounted their ordeals as they are still in shock about the whole episode.
In an exclusive interview with pharmanewsonline, an undisclosed witness explained how the dreadful event unfolded around 1 a.m., as against the official time of 3:49am , given by LASEMA, while they were all asleep.
According to him, this incident marks the first of such catastrophe in over 20 years of his residency, leaving an indelible mark on his mind.
“The building collapsed actually around after 1 a.m. We were all asleep when we heard the ground shake. It is quite unfortunate that it happened around that time because all the workers were asleep.
“There was no way any of them would have escaped. I heard those labourers returned to bed at around 11pm.
“You know it was a 3 storey building, it was the people that were on the last floor that survived and are still unstable. The rest who slept on the ground floor and the first died instantly.
“I have lived in this estate for over 20 years and such has never happened. The worst that has happened is either the house starts sinking or it bends to one side. I’m certain of five people who were confirmed dead, but I’m not sure of how many more people are still trapped in the debris. I suspect that the cause of the accident is from the piling, it wasn’t done properly.
“If I’m feeling this way, I wonder how the woman whose house is just beside the collapsed building would have felt or how she is coping now.
“It was so sad to see dead bodies all over here yesterday when it happened. The sight of lifeless bodies laid about was devastating. That haunting scene replays in my mind even until now,” he shared soberly.
Another eye witness, who preferred anonymity, also expressed his bitterness towards the incident and casualties rate. He claimed to have interacted with a few of the labourers before the incident. He further disclosed that the labourers involved in the accident were conveyed to the site from Ibadan, Oyo State.
He also explained how he sustained an injury on his leg in the course of rescuing victims, as he was physically limping.
“As you can see, I’m limping as result of the accident yesterday. I got injured in the course of helping to rescue the victims. I have personally interacted with a few of the labourers. It was heart breaking to see their dead bodies lying on the floor yesterday,” he stated.
Head, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA, Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the development in a statement, on Thursday with five dead, four rescued alive and one trapped.
By Minghong – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4030608
Ageratum conyzoides Linn.(Family: Asteraceae), commonly known as goat weed or appa grass, is widely distributed over the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is an annual branching herb which grows up to 1m in height. The stems and leaves are covered with fine white hairs. It is called kuka in Hausa, agadi-isi-awo-ocha or akwukwo nwa osi n’aka in Igbo and imiesu in Yoruba. Other names are Billygoat weed, ageratum, invading ageratum, chickweed, adwolo (Lango), kimavi cha kuku (Kiswahili), and gathenge (Kikuyu).
Constituents
conyzoides contain a wide range of chemical compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins. Volatile oil, phonic esters, chromenes, benzofurans and terpenoids. It also contains phytoestrogens, chemicals that act somewhat like the hormone oestrogen.
Conyzoides leaves contain crude protein, carbohydrate, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and phosphorus. The plant yields essential oil, consisting of ageratochromene, dimethoxy – ageratochromene, cadinene and caryophyllene.
Preparations
The leaf, root and flower of the plant may be used. The plants may be used as sap powder, decoction or macerate.
Pharmacological actions and medicinal uses
Ageratum conyzoides has been reported to be used as folk medicine in different countries, for treating burns, wounds, skin disorders, headaches, fever, pneumonia, gynaecological diseases, leprosy, snakebites, rheumatism, inflammations, stomach ailments like parasites, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, used as a painkiller during childbirth. It is used as traditional medicine for the treatment of numerous ailments as a result of its analgesic, antifungal, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, haemostatic, smooth muscle relaxant and anticoagulant activity.
There are many reports on folk and traditional uses for sleeping sickness and mouthwash. A study demonstrated that A. conyzoides exerts its important anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting leukocyte influx and protein. A. conyzoides plant has been documented to have cardiovascular depressant activity.
conyzoides may be an effective treatment for reducing symptoms of BPH in healthy men, in part, through inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. In alternative medicine, ageratum is used against epilepsy. Animal experiments show that it has anti-inflammatory, anti-oedematous, anti-allergic effects in both acute and chronic.
In Kenya, East Africa, it has been used in traditional medicine for antiasthmatic, antispasmodic and haemostatic effects. The leaf is used to aid conception, used for haemorrhoids, and used intra vaginally for uterine bleeding. Decoction is used for toothache.
Adverse effects
conyzoides is often one of the first species to colonise degraded areas and so able to prevent other plants from establishing. It is also said to be poisonous. It has been listed as a noxious weed in South Africa. Noxious weeds are prohibited plants that must be controlled. They serve no economic purpose and possess characteristics that are harmful to humans, animals or the environment).
Economic uses and potentials
As a common agricultural weed, it can contribute to soil fertility. Pharmaceutical companies are being run in Brazil using A. conyzoides as raw material, with recommendations from the Brazilian Drug Centre.
It is also used for agricultural purposes as manure, insecticide, pesticide, herbicide, nematicide, fodder, etc. In China, it is widely intercropped in the citrus orchard to control pests and weeds.
References
Baral, D., Chaudhary, M., Lamichhane, G., & Pokhrel, B. (2022). Ageratum conyzoides: A Potential Source for Medicinal and Agricultural Products. Turkish Journal of Agriculture – Food Science and Technology, 10(12), 2307–2313. https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v10i12.2307-2313.5146
“If you have never been in pain, you will not understand what people in pain go through…. I am well trained in it, and we are the pioneers of interventional pain management.” – Dr Godwin Maduka
There are many reasons the name of Dr Godwin Maduka, CEO and medical director of the Las Vegas Pain Institute & Medical Centre (LVPI), has become globally synonymous with expertise, excellence and empathy. For starters, he is an accomplished medical doctor, with specialisation in chronic and acute pain management and anaesthesiology.
However, he has further distinguished himself by becoming the pacesetter in the advanced subspecialty of interventional pain management. With gifted hands and a golden heart, he skilfully treats all levels of pain, using sophisticated and minimally invasive techniques. This not only ensures effective pain control but also has fewer side effects and faster recovery times.
Even more interesting is that Maduka is not just a physician but also a clinical pharmacist, with extensive training and experience in both fields. His uncommon ability to integrate medical and pharmaceutical expertise propels a holistic approach to patient care, ensuring that his treatment plans are not only medically sound but also pharmacologically optimised.
It comes as no surprise, therefore, that the online space pulsates with plaudits from his past and present patients. One of them gushed: “Dr Maduka literally gave me my life back. When I went to Las Vegas Pain Institute, I was at the end of the road and had no hope. Other doctors had told me that I would be in an electric scooter in the next couple of years. Thanks to Dr Maduka and his wonderful staff at Las Vegas Pain Institute – they all saved me! It’s been three years and I do not use a walker and do not have a scooter! Thank you to Dr Maduka and the entire staff at Las Vegas Pain Institute for helping me more than words can possibly express. May you all be blessed.”
Another recalled, “Dr Godwin Maduka appeared and announced that Dr Martin was on vacation. At that point I almost got up and left. However, Dr Maduka also advised me that he would be taking personal care of me. End result was THE BEST experience I’ve ever had while wearing a surgical gown. Spinal epidural had me in and out in 65 minutes, handled by a very cordial and professional staff, all with ZERO pain during and since the procedure. It doesn’t get ANY better than this!”
Titanic tycoon
It does get better with Dr Maduka, however. While his professional proficiency has been constantly hailed as profound, his entrepreneurial and managerial acumen has been nothing short of prodigious. Over the course of a few decades, he has successfully transformed his medical expertise into a massive, multi-million-dollar business empire, shattering the myth that medics cannot be magnates.
He established the Las Vegas Pain Institute and Medical Centre (LVPI) in 1999 – two years after completing his residency and postgraduate medical training in anaesthesiology, critical care and pain management; and one year after being certified by the American Board of Anaesthesiology. Through his consistent commitment to excellence, patient-centred care and visionary leadership, the facility gradually expanded to a state-of-the-art network of medical centres, dedicated to providing cutting-edge, minimally invasive pain management solutions.
In Maduka’s words, “We own six medical centres in the US, and in Las Vegas alone, I own more facilities in pro-health pain management than any other doctor. We are the largest in Nevada, and in terms of quality, we are still one of the best in the US, as well as the world.”
Over the years, the various centres of the LVPI have gained a reputation for offering comprehensive care that significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Moreover, Maduka’s strategic investments in research and development have kept the facilities at the forefront of medical advancements. Each facility is a one-stop destination for a wide array of medical services, including primary care, preventative care, urgent care, radiology, lab work, and even surgery.
Phenomenal philanthropist
Another distinctive trademark of Dr Maduka is his unwavering devotion to humanitarianism – the belief in improving people’s lives and reducing suffering. This lifestyle principle has been a major driver of his astronomical success. So selflessly committed is he to alleviating suffering and pain through his profession and philanthropic gestures that he was once named “philanthropist of the millennium”.
A little over 20 years ago, the renowned pain specialist visited his hometown, Umuchukwu (originally Nkerehi), in Anambra State, for the first time. That experience would change him and the community forever. According to him, “When I came to Umuchukwu, things were so bad. It was all about poverty, despair, and underdevelopment. I was so sad about that visit and I promised myself that I won’t allow the village where I grew up to remain the same. It was out of “positive anger” that I decided to build a semblance of an American city.”
True to Maduka’s words, from that time of his visit to date, he has spent hundreds of millions of dollars to ensure the transformation of the rustic village to a megacity. He has built roads, bridges, several houses, schools, churches, market stores, police stations, courts, as well as quarters for judges and the Nigeria Civil Defence Corps. This is in addition to his investments in youth education and vocational training. He also provided a 5-star hotel, a hospital, a filling station as well as electricity transformers and other infrastructural landmarks.
Most remarkably, he built a $100 million-dollar ultramodern 17-storey medical research centre in the community. Indeed, efforts are currently in full gear to turn the research centre into a full, world-class academic institution – the Transatlantic Medicine and Health Science University – with the National Universities Commission (NUC) visiting the premises and expressing satisfaction on the progress made so far.
But it is not only Umuchukwu that is being transformed by Maduka’s magnanimity. The entire Anambra State is feeling the positive reverberations. His combined personal investments in the various sectors of the state in the past 20 years are estimated to have contributed over $500 million to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Beneficial beginnings
When Dr Maduka says he has been “well trained” in managing pain, he is not just referring to his professional training but also his unique upbringing. He was born in 1959, in former Nkerehi, Orumba-South LGA, in Anambra State, to a traditional doctor father and a petty trader mother. Despite growing up in poverty and deprivation, he learnt to dream big and to prioritise empathy for others, especially as he watched his father attend to the need of his patients and others.
Maduka attended Comprehensive Secondary School, Nawfia, as well as All Saints Grammar School, Umunze, both in Anambra State. He was to study Medicine at the University of Port Harcourt but had no one to sponsor him. After a while, he was able to secure partial scholarship to study Chemistry at Rust College, in Mississippi, United States. His brother, who had started selling auto spare parts in Abuja, volunteered to help out with the remaining expenses. He sold everything in his shop to fund Maduka’s travel expenses to the US in 1982. According to Maduka, that incident is another catalyst for his present big-heartedness. “I told God that if my brother gave me all he had, that I will never relent in my act of kindness to humanity. I will always give my all,” he recalls.
Maduka graduated summa cum laude in Chemistry from Rust College in 1984 and got another scholarship to study Pharmacy at Mercer University, Atlanta, Georgia, graduating in 1988, with PharmD. After graduation, he worked as a pharmacy technician, before getting a full scholarship to study Medicine at University of Tennessee, Memphis, where he completed an internship and graduated in 1993. He proceeded to Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre for his postgraduate training and residency in anaesthesiology, critical care and pain management, graduating in 1997.
Maduka is certified by the American Board of Anaesthesiology, the American Academy of Pain Management and the American Academy of Minimally Invasive Spinal Medicine and Surgery. Aside from his roles as CEO and medical director of the Las Vegas Pain Institute & Medical Centre, Maduka is also a clinical faculty supervisor and adjunct professor of pain management and anaesthesiology at Touro University Nevada. He is also a clinical assistant professor of surgery at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Medicine.
Awards and accolades
Dr Maduka has received many prestigious awards and recognitions for his exceptional commitment to both his patients and the broader community in US and Nigeria. Aside from being a “Heartbeat of America” Award winner, he has been honoured as “Man of the Year” and “Philanthropist of the Year” (2020). In the same 2020, he won the Who is Who’s Stand of Fame Award for being “An Exceptional Humanitarian”. He also won the “Most Friendly Philanthropist of the Year”, the “Peace Man of the Year” (2020) and the SRTV’s “Legendary Award” for investment in human capital development. In 2021, he won the Michael Okpara Leadership Prize as “Philanthropist of the Millennium”. He also received the “Impact Builders Award” in the same year.
There are several other awards and recognitions that Maduka has received but which space would not allow here. In all, however, the “Okosisi Orumba”, as he is fondly called, remains humble and thankful to God and all who have contributed to his success. “I’m here for a purpose,” he says. “What happened to me, doesn’t happen often. From the jungle to Harvard… how often do you see that happen?” Not very often, we would agree.
Five workers have reportedly died from a collapsed building under construction at Arowojobe Estate, Mende area of Maryland, Lagos State, at the early hours of Thursday.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) boss, Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the development in a statement, with five dead, four rescued alive and one trapped.
He said the building collapsed at 3:49am on Thursday at 13, Wilson Mba Street, Arowojobe Estate, Maryland, Lagos.
The emergency responder said five persons, all adult males, were rescued alive from the building collapse site.
According to him, “The Agency responded to the above incident and discovered that a set of three terraces under construction had collapsed.
“Search and rescue operations began immediately. Five adult males were recovered dead while 4 adult males were rescued alive, and 1 adult male trapped under the rubble was rescued alive by the LASEMA and the Lagos State Fire Service.
“All the men were site workers. They received pre-hospital care on location before being transported to the hospital while the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU) was contacted for the remains of the four fatalities,” the statement read.
“LASEMA’s excavator has been deployed to accelerate the search and rescue operations.”
…As Oluyole 2024 ACPN Conference hosts over 2000 participants
L-R: Dr Oluwaserimi Adewumi Ajetunmobi, commissioner for health, Oyo State; Pharm. Wale Oladigbolu, national chairman, ACPN; Barr Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, deputy governor, Oyo State, and Prof. Cyril Usifoh, president, PSN, at the opening ceremony of the Oluyole 2024 ACPN Conference, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In recognition of their contributions to the growth of pharmacy practice and healthcare generally in Nigeria, Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, and the Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Moji Adeyeye, have praised community pharmacists for their commitment to professionalism and high ethical standards.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 43rd Annual National Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), the governor, who was the guest of honour, said he acknowledged the pivotal role of community pharmacists as the first point of contact for healthcare need, highlighting their essential contributions to public health and patient care.
The conference, which was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, was themed, “Advancing Community Pharmacy Practice through Innovation and Collaboration”
A cross-section of participants at the opening ceremony of the Oluyole 2024 ACPN Conference, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Gov Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, said collaboration among healthcare personnel would help in addressing challenges and exploring new opportunities that will lead to a healthier nation.
Governor while commending the ACPN for its steadfast commitment to enhancing community pharmacy practice in Nigeria, emphasised the state’s dedication to advancing the pharmaceutical profession and improving healthcare delivery.
He equally underscored Oyo State’s proactive approach in integrating community pharmacists into public health initiatives,such as the Director of Public Health TB/HIV Integration Coordination Meetings, while announcing plans to recruit additional healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, to enhance service delivery and address workforce shortages.
Makinde, who outlined Oyo State’s efforts in creating a supportive environment for community pharmacists through initiatives like the Community Pharmacy Expansion Scheme (CPES), said the state’s alignment with the Omituton 2.0 health agenda and Universal Health Coverage goals, aimed to ensure affordable access to drugs and medical supplies for all citizens.
He highlighted significant advancements in healthcare infrastructure, including the impending establishment of the Oyo State Drug Management Agency, aimed at improving pharmaceutical procurement and distribution.
Earlier in her address, Prof. Adeyeye, NAFDAC DG and Chairperson of the occasion, acknowledged pharmaceutical companies credible performances, adding that she was excited to see many manufacturers display their approved NAFDAC certified products with confidence. “I want to recognise them especially because sometimes we don’t value what we produce in Nigeria.”
She highlighted the pivotal role of community pharmacists as crucial healthcare professionals, serving as the primary interface with the community, as supported by research findings, adding that the conference provides a key opportunity for us to exchange knowledge, chart the course for the future of community pharmacy practice worldwide, and collaborate.
She noted that the theme of the conference was very apt, saying from leveraging technology to enhancing patient care to expanding role in chronic disease management as they have seen at the conference and advocating for policy changes that support the profession.
Adeyeye however tasked the ACPN on the need to build a robust collaboration between the nation’s regulatory agencies and community pharmacists as a need for safeguarding public health, by ensuring the availability of safe and effective medications, promoting regulatory compliance, and a successful and transformative conference.
In his keynote address, Pharm. Remi Adeseun, global director at Salient Advisory, a digital health consulting firm, asserted that the healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, hence technological advancement and other sociodemographic changes are driving community based care.
He noted that the five trends impacting healthcare delivery globally in 2024 includes, focus on holistic, patient-centred care, technological transformation, focus on cost and affordability, shortfalls in health workforce, and equity in health.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the National Chairman, ACPN, Pharm. Wale Oladigbolu, noted that the 33 months he has been at the helms of affairs for ACPN has been a rare privilege for him to contribute to pharmacy profession and the health as well as wellbeing of the citizens of Nigeria.
Highlights of the opening ceremony included presentation of prizes to the winners of the National Anti-Drug Abuse Students Competition.
L-R Director General NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Minister of state for health and social welfare, Dr Tunji Alausa, Director-General of NBMA, Dr Agnes Yemisi Asagbra
In a bid to enhance the regulation and safety of Genetically Modified (GM) foods in Nigeria, the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have agreed to establish a Technical Working Group (TWG).
The Honourable Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa, stated that the decision is aimed at strengthening inter-agency collaboration on food safety.
The TWG’s mandate will include developing terms of reference and setting up a dedicated secretariat to streamline the cooperative efforts of NBMA and NAFDAC. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that GM food regulation in Nigeria is scientifically sound and transparent.
Alausa emphasised the importance of consistent communication between government agencies to enhance synergy and effectively address public concerns about GM foods. He stressed on the extensive scientific evidence supporting the safety of GM foods and advocated for a unified approach to public communication on this issue.
Director-General of NBMA, Dr Agnes Yemisi Asagbra, expressed appreciation for the Hon. Minister’s leadership in convening the meeting. She confirmed that NBMA maintains close working relations with NAFDAC, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding established in 2017.
Dr Asagbra clarified that NBMA does not issue GM food permits without NAFDAC’s involvement, reinforcing the collaborative nature of their regulatory processes.
Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC’s director general, reiterated the agency’s commitment to protecting consumer health through rigorous scientific research and safety assessments.
She addressed past misunderstandings regarding GM foods, emphasising that NAFDAC’s decisions are based on thorough evaluation of scientific evidence.
The agencies also agreed to continue their collaboration on risk assessment and GM food labeling, enhance capacity-building and training exchanges, and pursue joint efforts in information technology and global listing initiatives.
Pharm. Abimbola Bowoto, assistant general manager, sales and marketing, Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, and other staff during the unveiling of the newly launched Coatal Gelatin Soft Gel at the 43rd national conference of the ACPN, tagged Oluyole 2024 in Ibadan.
Dr Michael Obaro, a consultant clinical pharmacologist and malaria scientist at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, has stated that a new innovative approach to oral drug delivery—soft gel technology, promises to revolutionise malaria treatment in the country.
Obaro, who is also a senior lecturer in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, made this remark during the official launch of Coatal Forte Soft Gelatin Capsules—a formulation of artemether and lumefantrine, by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited.
The event which took place during a presentation session at the 43rd Annual National Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, and was attended by eminent pharmacists, nurses, doctors, and other dignitaries.
The expert noted that malaria, caused by the plasmodium parasite transmitted through mosquito bites, affects millions annually, saying despite the availability of effective treatments, challenges such as drug resistance, poor patient adherence, and limited accessibility hinder the global fight against malaria.
He revealed that over 60 per cent of Nigerians discontinue oral medications while undergoing treatment, which he said remains a significant barrier to effective malaria management.
According to him, soft gel capsules, known for their enhanced bioavailability and patient-friendly properties, are gaining attention in the pharmaceutical world, adding that unlike traditional tablets, soft gels can improve drug absorption, ensure consistent dosing, and provide a stable medium for active ingredients.
“Soft gels facilitate quicker and more efficient absorption of antimalarial drugs, ensuring rapid therapeutic effects. Their ease of swallowing can lead to better adherence, particularly among children and the elderly. Additionally, they can protect sensitive drug compounds from degradation, maintaining their potency over time,” he said.
“The development of the soft gelatin capsule formulation is credited to Robert Pauli Scherer, an American inventor and entrepreneur who developed the rotary die encapsulation process for manufacturing soft gel capsules in 1933. This innovation allowed for the mass production of soft gels, providing a reliable and efficient method to encapsulate liquid and semi-solid formulations within a gelatin shell,” he added.
Speaking on the launched product, Coatal Forte Soft Gelatin Capsules, he stressed that it is the most popular antimalarial gelatin formulation, containing artemether 80 mg and lumefantrine 480 mg, known for its high antimalarial safety and efficacy.
Furthermore, he noted that soft gel formulations can be marketed as a premium product due to positive consumer perception. “They can be taken without water, offer convenience for patients in areas where access to clean water may be limited, and include tamper-evident features, providing an additional layer of safety and trust for consumers.”
The Immediate Past Director General of NIMR, Prof. Babatunde Lawal Salako, and Director General of KIRCT, Prof. Hamisu Salihu, signing the MOU on Monday
Poised to change the narratives in drug and vaccine manufacturing, which hitherto has over 70 per cent importation rate, Nigerian scientists are set to harness local capacities in developing home-grown solutions towards addressing public health challenges.
The scientists from the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) and Kano Independent Research Centre Trust (KIRCT), made this disclosure at the signing of a strategic partnership aim at achieving the goal of medicine security in the country.
Speaking at the programme, held on Monday, the outgoing Director General of NIMR, Prof. Babatunde Lawal Salako, said the collaboration would support research into home-grown solutions to address the various health challenges in the countr.
He disclosed that it would also create a viable platform for both organisations to harness its different capacities and capabilities in the area of research.
According to him, “This partnership is key because it will support home-grown grown solutions which can come from products of research.
“In Africa, most of the solutions we have are not from us; our genetic architecture are not taken into consideration in many drugs and vaccine production.
“We see this as opportunity to harness our different capacities and make significant impact in the area of drugs and vaccine production.”
Director General of KIRCT, Prof. Hamisu Salihu, corroborated the views of Salako on the partnership, saying it will significantly improve national response to disease outbreaks, as it aims to expand the bio-medical entity of the country.
With the plan to commence research in Lagos and Kano, which account for about 75 per cent of the health problems of Nigeria, and being the locations of the two organisations, Salihu said they will prioritise diseases like meningitis, malaria, tuberculosis, as well as care for pregnant women, due to the high burden in the states and the country as a whole.
He noted that the collaboration would complement the efforts of the government on medicine and health security.
“If you look at, for instance, the diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria last year, 2023, Kano was responsible for about 70 per cent of the outbreak. So that makes Kano a very important partner, really. And if you do research in Nigeria without touching Kano, it’s superficial, it’s partial.
“This agreement with NIMR will benefit the country greatly because we have realised that NIMR is the foremost and well known research institute in the country.
“The KIRCT is also an independent organisation which have the capacity to expand and its support by the Kano State government and Pfizer pharmaceuticals.We see them as a priority partner with the track record to push us forward in terms of capacity building, visionary direction on some of the local challenges we face in Kano.” He stated.
Prof. Salihu further elucidated on their plans to curb vaccine hesitancy and other unhealthy cultural practices among the people through community-based participatory research, with the engagement of opinion and religious leader.
The Professor of Medicine underscored the essence of community engagement in diseases prevention and treatment, noting that proper enlightenment of the population on the dangers of some habits and the benefits of some medicines or vaccine through their leaders, will go along in fostering compliance.
He said,” We intend to embark on community-based participatory research, community engagement implementation research, where you go into the community, and you bring the community on board. Can you imagine if we have been training community members, they wouldn’t have been the ones even propagating the message of vaccination.
“I think community members, especially opinion leaders, need to be brought right from the start. You don’t just conceive alone in your office, you design alone in your office, and all of a sudden you come and talk to the community. I think that is wrong. The community members must be brought on board from inception to implementation, and that is the path we are going”.
L-R Director general of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye and NCTC Coordinator, Major-General Adamu Laka
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced a strategic partnership with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), to intensify the fight against drug counterfeiting, unauthorised handling of chemicals, and terrorism.
NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, in a press release on its X handle, said the collaboration is expected to bolster NAFDAC’s enforcement capabilities, ensuring stricter compliance and monitoring of pharmaceutical and chemical products.
She highlighted the critical role of NAFDAC in ensuring the quality and safety of drugs, a mandate that has been improved by the agency’s attainment of the World Health Organisation’s Maturity Level 3 accreditation.
Adeyeye emphasised that regulating drug quality is not only a public health issue but also a matter of national security, thus the partnership aims to leverage the agency’s regulatory expertise and resources to enhance national security efforts.
The NAFDAC DG also acknowledged the NCTC’s instrumental role in reinstating NAFDAC’s presence at Nigeria’s ports, a measure that has been pivotal in reducing the influx of counterfeit and illicit substances into the country.
NCTC Coordinator, Major-General Adamu Laka expressed appreciation for NAFDAC’s scientific contributions and pledged the NCTC’s ongoing support.
He also requested the deployment of additional NAFDAC personnel to further enhance the centre’s operational capacity.
The NAFDAC boss further asserted that the partnership will enable the NCTC to access the agency’s capabilities in forensic analysis, toxicology, and DNA testing, strengthening efforts to track and combat the distribution of counterfeit drugs and chemicals.
She said this is particularly crucial in curbing the illicit trade that poses significant risks to public health and safety.
A cross-section of community pharmacists during the health walk.
The First Lady of Oyo State, Engr. Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde, has commended community pharmacists across Nigeria for their significant contributions to safeguarding public health. She highlighted their crucial role as the first point of contact for healthcare issues within communities.
Mrs Makinde made these remarks during a health walk, tagged “Walk Against Cancer,” as part of the activities marking the 43rd Annual National Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), held in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The First Lady, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Adewumi Ajetunmobi, congratulated the ACPN on its 43rd Annual National Conference and emphasised the state’s commitment to fostering collaboration among healthcare teams.
The Health Commissioner, Oyo State, Dr Oluwaserimi Adewumi Ajetunmobi, in the company of Pharm. Wale Oladigbolu, chairman, ACPN, and others, distributing flyers during the health walk.
“Community pharmacy is not just about dispensing drugs but also involves counselling and guiding people on health challenges. We recognize your good work and look forward to collaborating with you as a state,” she stated.
The ACPN Awareness Walk started at the gate of the conference venue, the International Conference Centre at the University of Ibadan, and traversed major streets including the popular Agbowo Junction, concluding at the bustling Bodija Market in Ibadan.
During the event, the ACPN boss, Pharm. Wale Oladigbolu urged the public to view community pharmacists as trusted healthcare providers, saying the ‘Walk’ underscored the association’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting public health initiatives.
Pharm. Oladigbolu announced that the ACPN would sponsor surgical procedures for three individuals, with two already identified for cataract and other medical needs.
Additionally, the association has donated an ultra-modern PharmaCare Centre to the people of Ilora, Oyo State.
The duo of Pharm. Grace Ikani, Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, and Pharm. Taofik Odukoya, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, noted that the awareness walk on cancer was strategic, addressing a leading cause of death worldwide.
They highlighted that the conference, with close to 2000 participants already registered, promises to be the best annual conference ever.
The conference, themed “Advancing Community Pharmacy Practice through Innovation and Collaboration,” runs from July 22 to 27 at the International Conference Centre, Ibadan.
For the newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) Professor John Obafunwa to attain enviable height like the outgoing DG, Professor Babatunde Lawal Salako, the latter has urged the former to embrace open door policy in administration.
Salako, who spoke with Pharmanewsonline in an exclusive interview on Monday said the success of his two-term tenure is attributable to his inclusive approach in relating with all staff members from the most senior to the most junior.
He also emphasised the need for the dissemination of accurate information in the system, in order to prevent grapevine from thriving. He said it is the absent of actual information to creates room for grapevine.
“My first recommendation to him is that he should have an open door policy.
“He who wants to see you should be able to see you. Know fully well that such opportunities may be abused, but you should be able to manage it, because when there is no information, you create room for grapevine.
“And so, if you don’t want grapevine to thrive, then provide information. Also receive information so that you can respond appropriately. It is very important”, Prof. Salako advised.
He continued, “I see that that’s one of the things that explain the success of this administration. We talked to the unions, we talked to individuals, we talked to senior, we talked to junior, and we treated everybody with respect. Because that’s very important,”
The outgoing DG of NIMR further underscored the essence of respect in dealing with all stakeholders and staff members, saying it yields better respect for the person at the helms of affairs.
He noted that irrespective of the enthusiasm and innovation the new DG is bringing on board, if the workforce is not ready, then all his efforts will amount to nothing.
“You say respect, we get respect. So if you respect and treat your staff with respect, they will also shower you with a lot of respect.
“Again, no matter whatever you bring to the institution, whatever you buy, whatever innovation you have, if this workforce is not ready, then you are not going to anywhere”, Salako quipped.
A former Vice-Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU), John Obafunwa, has been appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the new Director General (DG) of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR).
The appointment of Obafunwa takes effect from 24 July, 2024, as the outgoing DG, Prof. Babatunde Lawal Salako completes his second tenure on 23 July 2024, a statement from the Presidential Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, disclosed.
According to Ngelale, Tinubu appreciated Salako for his meritorious service to the country, in uplifting the standard of the research institute.
Obafunwa, a professor of Forensic Pathology was the Vice-Chancellor of LASU between 2011 and 2015.
He studied medicine at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) from 1975 to 1980.
He took his residency in Morbid Anatomy and Anatomic Pathology at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, and became certified with the Fellowship of the National College in Pathology (FMCPath).
Obafunwa was the state pathologist for the Cayman Islands and the Republic of Bermuda.
In November 2004, he took up an appointment as a professor of forensic pathology at the College of Medicine, LASU.
He became provost of the College of Medicine at LASU In 2006.
