Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • FCT projects proof of Tinubu’s “good governance” – Wike

    FCT projects proof of Tinubu’s “good governance” – Wike

     

    By Philip Yatai

    Abuja:   The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described ongoing infrastructure projects across the FCT as a clear “demonstration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to good governance”.

    Wike made the remarks on Monday, after inspecting some ongoing projects across the capital city, expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of delivery by contractors.

    He explained that the rapid completion of critical infrastructure and revival of long-abandoned projects reflected Tinubu’s responsiveness to residents’ demand for good governance and urban development.

    Citing the Airport Road to Kuje Expressway project, Wike said anyone who saw the road would appreciate the scale and quality of work being delivered by the contractor.

    “That is what is called good governance. Tinubu is simply showcasing good governance to the people,” he said, hailing the administration’s infrastructure drive.

    He commended the contractor handling the project, describing the execution as a “fantastic job” and noting adherence to acceptable engineering and construction standards.

    Wike also lauded the completed first phase of the Kuje to Gwagwalada Road saying, “the quality of work had significantly improved the landscape of the area.

    “I am so happy with the quality of the project. You can see how infrastructure has changed the entire landscape of the Kuje area,” he added.

    The minister, who also inspected the access road to Renewed Hope City in Karsana, said the project was about 98 per cent completed.

    At the Old Keffi Road from Kado Fish Market to Dei Dei, Wike said the contractor was close to finishing asphalt laying and streetlight installation works.

    Speaking on the City Gate remodeling project, the minister said the structure now had a new look and commended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for initiating the project.

    “I’m sure anybody who passes here at night will see a different city. They will know they are coming to a city, the capital of Nigeria.

    “I think today is one of my happiest days. All the projects we inspected, obviously, are ready for inauguration,” he added.

    Reacting to Mr Kingsley Chinda emerging as the APC candidate for the Rivers governorship race in 2027, Wike said the lawmaker was qualified and politically capable.

    He said Chinda’s legislative experience and political influence made him a strong candidate, noting that the party’s interest in him reflected his growing relevance.

    Wike added that Chinda, the House of Representatives minority leader, had experience working across both executive and legislative arms of government.

    On Gov. Siminalayi Fubara’s withdrawal from the APC gubernatorial primary, Wike said: “I wasn’t surprised because in the first place, he ought not to have collected the form.

    “This is because agreement was reached that his impeachment should be dropped, while he should also not go for a second term,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • NSC seeks rail integration to unlock Blue Economy potential


    L-R, the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka, the Employee Relations Manager, AMP Terminal, Mr Benedict Nwangwu, the Head of Asset Management APM Terminal, Mr Gordon Condie, the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams the Training Manager APMT, China Anyanwu, and the Execution Manager, Joseph Bankole during
    the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos

     

    NSC seeks rail integration to unlock Blue Economy potential
    Lagos, May 25, 2026 ,  Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has said efficient rail integration into the port system will unlock trade value, reduce cargo congestion and strengthen the country’s Blue Economy potential.
    Dr Juliana Saka, Assistant Director and Head of the Designate Unit, NSC, said this during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea Programme organised by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos.
    Saka said rail transport remained critical to moving high cargo volumes from seaports to inland markets, reducing pressure on roads, lowering emissions and improving trade efficiency.
    From first right the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams with some students in Lagos during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos
    According to her, dedicated rail corridors reduce cargo dwell time, increase port throughput and connect shippers to factories and distribution hubs more efficiently.
    “Rail operators unlock trade value by moving high volumes from ports to inland markets, reducing congestion, emissions and truck bottlenecks.
    “When rail connects to ports, supply chains become faster, cleaner and more reliable. It reduces gate congestion, shortens dwell times, lowers costs and boosts resilience by easing road pressure,” she said.
    Babington Macaulay showcasing Maritime Club
    She noted that although oceans move cargo efficiently, delays often occur at ports because roads, truck parks and terminals struggle to absorb increasing cargo volumes.
    “Nearly 60 per cent of freight moves by road, offering flexibility for short-distance movement but placing huge pressure on major transport corridors.
    “This reliance increases congestion, emissions, costs and delays, becoming a structural challenge in high-growth trade regions,” she said.
    Saka said integrating rail into the Blue Economy would bridge ports to the hinterland, enabling reliable cargo movement with lower emissions and fewer logistics bottlenecks.
    She, however, identified customs delays, multiple checkpoints, overlapping charges and fragmented regulations as major constraints affecting rail cargo operations in Lagos ports.
    The Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet William, Jeremiah Sax and the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka, the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka,
    According to her, inconsistent fees and approval delays increase cargo dwell time and weaken the competitiveness of rail transport.
    To unlock the sector’s potential, she called for direct rail connections to Lagos ports, development of inland container depots in Ibadan, Kano and Kaduna, and upgrades of standard gauge rail corridors.
    Saka also advocated harmonisation of customs procedures and charges, expansion of the single-window system and simplification of intermodal tariffs to improve cost predictability.
    She further recommended the establishment of a Rail-Port Integration Authority, increased Public-Private Partnership (PPP) investments and regular stakeholder engagement to address operational challenges.
    On digital transformation, Saka urged the deployment of e-booking and cargo tracking platforms, as well as training for operators in intermodal logistics management.
    She also proposed pilot rail corridors such as Lagos-Ibadan and temporary incentives for rail cargo movement to attract investment into the sector.
    The  students were also exposed to multimodal cargo operations and logistics career opportunities.
    Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams, said the initiative was designed to help students understand cargo movement through rail, trucks and seaports, while encouraging interest in logistics and supply chain careers.
    According to her, the foundation had earlier taken students to the Nigerian Railway Corporation headquarters to educate them on rail cargo movement.
    “Today’s programme exposed students to how cargo is transferred from ports to trucks and rail systems.
    “It is important for students to understand multimodal cargo operations so they can consider careers in logistics and supply chain management,” she said.
    Babington Macaulay showcasing Maritime Club
    Also speaking, the Head of Commercials, APM Terminals, Mr Kayode Daniel, explained the cargo handling process from the port of origin to the destination country.
    “Once the importer gathers the goods for shipment, the shipping company takes responsibility for transporting them to the country.
    “Before arrival, the company raises Form M and issues a Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) to enable payment of customs duties and shipping charges,” he said.
    The Head of Asset Management APM Terminal, Mr Gordon Condie, receiving plaque as an appreciation from the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams,
    during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos
    Daniel added that cargo movement from China to Nigeria takes approximately 30 days, while demurrage charges begin five days after cargo discharge at the terminal.
    The programme also featured practical sessions on cargo processing, port operations and intermodal transportation systems aimed at broadening students’ understanding of Nigeria’s maritime and logistics value chain.
  • Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

    Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

    Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

     

    Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

     

    The Enugu Government State has tasked stakeholders and partners on aggressive dissemination of the state free malaria testing and treatment campaign messages.

     

    The Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, gave the task on Monday in Enugu while addressing stakeholders and partners during a meeting of the state Malaria Technical Working Group (TWG).

     

    Ugwu said that the need to totally eliminate malaria had been brought to the front burner even at the state executive council.

     

     

    According to him, this is the level of seriousness the state attach to total malaria elimination.

     

    He said, “I task you to bring out brilliant ideas on how we ensure the state’s total malaria elimination through the ongoing campaign on free malaria testing and treatment.

     

    “The state government want the campaign on free malaria testing and treatment to go viral and be a household slogan and general knowledge of all.

     

    “Everybody living in the state must know and practice entering the nearby Primary Healthcare Centres close to them for free testing and if the person is positive, treatment will commence.”

     

     

    Corroborating, Prof. Eddy Ndibuagu, a Professor of Community Medicine in Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, said there was a need to use community-based organisations and faith-based organisations to push the message.

     

    Ndibuagu noted that for the message needed to get down and the people own it and further carry out the advocacy.

     

    Speaking, the Director of Public Health, Dr Uchenna Okenwa, said that eliminating malaria would be very effective through free malaria testing and treatment.

     

    Okenwa noted that there is a need to deal with mosquito larvae within the environment by keeping a clean and healthy environment.

     

     

    The State Coordinator of World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Adaeze Ugwu, commended the stakeholders and partners for providing time and resources to brainstorm and come out with actionable plans to eliminate malaria.

     

    “WHO will continue give its support and ensure all necessary assistance is given,” Ugwu said.

     

    In a message, Mr Ozioma Nwobodo, State Coordinator of Johns Hopkins University Affiliate (Jhipiego), said that the organisation was committed to provide professional partnership to Enugu State.

     

    Nwobodo noted that Jhipiego would scale down its support especially on message spread and behavioural change of all pregnant women and their families in the state.

     

    The Programme Manager of Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr. Ifeoma Otiji, said that the meeting was meant to take stock of the challenges, gaps and areas covered so far.

     

    Otiji noted that the fight against the menace of malaria and its elimination needed concerted stakeholders planning and action coordination.

     

    She noted that stakeholders must streamline activities and broaden spectrum of approach using the free malaria testing and treatment campaign.

  • Repete and the Politics of Presence: Why Grassroots Leadership Still Matters in Today’s Nigeria

    Repete and the Politics of Presence: Why Grassroots Leadership Still Matters in Today’s Nigeria

    In a political season where many public office seekers are louder on social media than they are in the lives of the people, the growing admiration for Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega, popularly known as Repete, reveals something deeper about the mood of the people. Nigerians, especially at the grassroots, are gradually shifting attention from empty political noise to leaders whose impact can be seen, felt, and remembered.

    Across communities today, one of the most trending conversations among the people is the increasing demand for accessible leadership. Citizens no longer want politicians who only appear during elections with rehearsed promises and disappear immediately after securing relevance. The people want leaders who stay connected to the streets, understand local realities, and carry the burden of the ordinary man with sincerity. It is within this context that the political identity of Repete continues to gain remarkable attention and acceptance.

    What makes Repete’s growing popularity unique is not merely ambition; it is the perception of consistency, humility, and human connection that surrounds his personality. In an era where political leadership is often associated with pride, distance, and selective accessibility, Repete appears to represent a refreshing contrast — a man whose name continues to echo within youth circles, community discussions, political gatherings, and grassroots engagements because of his visible closeness to the people.

    One striking reality about contemporary politics is that citizens now pay attention to leaders who genuinely identify with their struggles. Economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, and social frustrations have made the people more conscious of who truly stands with them beyond ceremonial appearances. This explains why many young people and community stakeholders increasingly appreciate leaders who are visible during important moments in the lives of the people — celebrations, challenges, community development efforts, and social engagements alike.

    Repete’s political style appears to align with this new expectation. His growing influence reflects a leadership philosophy built around presence, participation, and people-oriented relationships. Whether among the youths, elders, party faithful, or community stakeholders, his approach continues to project a personality that understands that leadership is not merely about occupying a position but about earning trust through constant human connection.

    Another factor contributing to his rising image is the increasing demand for youthful and energetic political figures who can bridge the widening gap between governance and the people. Nigeria’s political future undoubtedly belongs to leaders who can communicate effectively with the younger generation while maintaining respect among elders and political structures. Repete’s appeal appears to cut across these divides, making him one of the emerging political figures whose name resonates beyond ordinary political conversations.

    Importantly, effective leadership in today’s Nigeria requires more than speeches; it requires emotional intelligence, visibility, loyalty to the people, and the ability to inspire confidence. These qualities are gradually becoming the true political currency of modern democracy. It is therefore unsurprising that many observers continue to describe Repete as a politician whose political identity is steadily being shaped by grassroots admiration and expanding public goodwill.

    Beyond politics itself, his growing acceptance also highlights a broader lesson: people naturally gravitate toward leaders who make them feel seen, respected, and valued. This is perhaps the strongest ingredient behind every enduring political movement. While political titles may come and go, genuine human connection remains permanent in the hearts of the people.

    As conversations about credible representation, inclusive leadership, and grassroots development continue to dominate public discourse, personalities like Repete are likely to remain relevant in the minds of many who believe leadership should be closer to the people than to political luxury.

    In the end, history rarely remembers leaders only for what they promised. It remembers those who stayed connected to the people, carried their hopes with sincerity, and built influence not through fear or propaganda, but through visible impact and genuine relationships. For many political observers and grassroots supporters, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) appears to be steadily building that kind of legacy.

  • Kwairanga seeks stronger funding for Africa’s creative economy

    Kwairanga seeks stronger funding for Africa’s creative economy

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group, Umaru Kwairanga, has urged stronger financing structures for Africa’s expanding creative and technology sectors.

    Kwairanga made the appeal at the Africa Soft Power Summit holding in Nairobi.

    In a statement issued to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), he stressed the need for institutional backing to unlock Africa’s creative economy’s full economic potential.

    The summit, which began on Wednesday, is expected to conclude on Saturday, bringing together policymakers, investors, creatives and technology stakeholders.

    Kwairanga said African financial institutions and capital market operators must begin treating creative and technology sectors as viable investment asset classes.

    He warned against reducing Africa’s booming cultural industries to “mere cultural side notes” in spite of their growing global influence and economic significance.

    According to him, Africa’s expanding footprint in music, film, arts and technology presents enormous opportunities for sustainable wealth creation and investment growth.

    He noted that African creativity was increasingly attracting international attention, while capital markets across Sub-Saharan Africa were simultaneously witnessing renewed momentum.

    “Today we are asking what it takes to move Africa’s creative, technological and cultural influence from visibility to ownership.

    “We must move from global attention to durable economic value that benefits African entrepreneurs, investors and economies,” he said.

    Kwairanga explained that capital markets existed primarily to connect investors with viable opportunities capable of generating long-term value and economic development.

    He described Africa’s creative economy as one of the continent’s “hidden gems” requiring improved financing systems, monetisation frameworks and stronger value-chain development.

    The NGX Group chairman questioned whether internationally celebrated African artistes were fully benefitting from the enormous revenues generated by their global popularity.

    He specifically mentioned Tyla, Burna Boy and Diamond Platnumz as examples.

    Kwairanga raised concerns about whether branding rights, copyrights, ticketing proceeds and concert revenues were properly structured to maximise African ownership.

    He also questioned whether workers supporting Africa’s film industries were receiving fair financial rewards for their contributions and labour.

    According to him, thousands of professionals operating behind the scenes in Nollywood and East Africa’s movie industry remained inadequately compensated.

    Kwairanga further urged stakeholders to replicate the achievements of Safaricom across Africa’s growing technology hubs.

    He said stronger institutional frameworks, funding models and supportive government policies were necessary to nurture innovation and digital enterprise across the continent.

    According to him, African capital markets must evolve rapidly alongside emerging industries driven by intellectual property, technology and creative talent.

    “At Nigerian Exchange Group, we believe the exchange of the future must connect with creators and technology-driven businesses,” he said.

    Kwairanga added that entrepreneurs and innovators shaping Africa’s next phase of economic growth deserved stronger access to funding and investment opportunities.

  • Alleged trademark infringement: Court stops coy from producing energy drink

     

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has stopped a beverage company, Mamuda Beverages Nigeria Limited, from producing its ”pop power” energy drink over allegations bordering on trademark infringement pending the hearing and determination of substantive suit.

    Justice Binta Nyako restrained Mamuda Beverages Ltd from further production of the drink in a copied bottle design, which allegedly infringed on the trademark of a popular Fearless Energy Drink produced by Rite Foods Limited.

    Justice Nyako, in a ruling also refused a preliminary objection filed by Mamuda in a suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/705/2025.

    The judge rather granted the injunctive reliefs sought by Rite Foods Limited.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mamuda Beverages, in its preliminary objection, had challenged the suit on the basis of abuse of court process.

    The company also argued that Rite Foods’ instant complaint of infringement of its intellectual property is distinct from an earlier suit between the parties, wherein Rite Foods had complained about a different act of infringement.

    Delivering the ruling, the judge held that Mamuda’s newly introduced bottle design still bears a striking resemblance with Rite Foods’ established Fearless Energy Drink product.

    She, therefore, granted an order restraining Mamuda from further production of its Pop Power Energy Drink product, pending the final determination of the suit.

    Justice Nyako further ordered Mamuda to cease production of the product forthwith and directed the court bailiff, in conjunction with the parties, to undertake an inventory of the already produced products and file same.

    The judge, who said that the products already produced could be dispersed by Mamuda Beverages, ordered that the injunction shall remain in force until the end of the year or pending the determination of the substantive suit.

    She consequently adjourned the suit untill Sept. 23 for hearing of the substantive suit.

    The order followed an earlier suit against Mamuda in January 2025, where Rite Foods sued the company for infringing on the trademark and design of its iconic Fearless Energy Drink through the launch of “a lookalike product, Pop Power Energy Drink.”

    However, Mamuda sought a settlement, and terms of settlement were agreed and filed, and the court entered same as its consent judgment.

    Some of the terms of settlement include that, Mamuda would desist from further violation of Fearless Energy Drink trademark and identity pass-off.

    It also pledged to change its design and avoid any form of identity imitation.

  • DLA urges aggrieved members of APC , ADC to join party

    DLA urges aggrieved members of APC , ADC to join party

     

    DLA urges aggrieved members of AP

     

    By Alaba Olusola Oke
    Akure: The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has called on aggrieved members of All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties to join the party.
    The Chairman of the DLA in Ondo State, Mr Israel Ayeni, made the call in a statement on Sunday in Akure.
    Ayeni said that the DLA was a party that gave politicians equal opportunities and level playing ground to thrive without any policy of  ‘godfatherism’.
    “The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) proudly stands as a virgin political party, free from the crises that have plagued many others.
    “We deeply understand the importance of effective leadership and have established a top-notch reward system that recognises and values the contributions of our members,” he said.
    The chairman stated that the Federal High Court  in Abuja had opened a crucial opportunity for all political aspirants to join other political parties.
    “With the deadline for joining political parties set for September 2026, there is ample time for individuals seeking a constructive political environment to explore their options.
    “At the DLA, we pride ourselves on our inclusive and harmonious atmosphere, where every voice is valued.
    “Our commitment to collaboration and dialogue provides a refreshing alternative for those seeking a platform that prioritises unity over division.
    “We encourage all disappointed members of the APC and ADC to join us in building a stronger, more cohesive political landscape for Ondo State.
    “Together, let us champion the ideals of democracy, progress, and mutual respect,” he said.
    According to him, DLA is a movement that believes in peaceful coexistence and collective advancement.
    He asked interested politicians in the state to  contact the party on  +2348039522207 or its website. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • Jigawa Governorship Race: Senator Sabo Nakudu Calls for Peaceful ADC Primaries

    Jigawa Governorship Race: Senator Sabo Nakudu Calls for Peaceful ADC Primaries

    Distinguished Senator Sabo Muhammad Nakudu, a governorship aspirant under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Jigawa State, has intensified consultations with party stakeholders ahead of the party’s governorship primary election scheduled for Monday, May 25, 2025.

    The consultative meeting, which took place at the ADC State Headquarters in Dutse, brought together party leaders from the 27 local government areas of the state to deliberate on strategies aimed at strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Addressing the gathering, Senator Nakudu said the meeting provided him with an opportunity to outline his plans and political strategies for securing victory for the ADC in the forthcoming elections. He also highlighted his vision for the socio-economic and political development of Jigawa State if elected governor.

    According to the governorship hopeful, unity and collective commitment among party members remain key factors necessary for the success of the ADC at both the state and national levels.

    Senator Nakudu further appealed to party supporters and delegates to conduct themselves peacefully during the primary election process, urging them to shun violence and any act capable of disrupting the democratic exercise.

    He emphasized the need for members to uphold constitutional provisions and democratic principles by ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process.

    The ADC governorship aspirant also reassured party stakeholders of his commitment to fostering unity, inclusiveness, and sustainable development within the party and across Jigawa State. He pledged to work tirelessly for the growth and success of the ADC in the state and Nigeria at large if given the mandate.

    Political observers believe the meeting forms part of ongoing efforts by the ADC leadership and aspirants to consolidate support ahead of the highly anticipated governorship primaries in Jigawa State.

  • Enugu 4-tier health system built on inclusive, affordable, quality healthcare delivery – Enugu Govt.

    Enugu 4-tier health system built on inclusive, affordable, quality healthcare delivery – Enugu Govt.

    Enugu 4-tier health system built on inclusive, affordable, quality healthcare delivery – Enugu Govt.

     

    The Enugu State Government says that the state 4-tier health system is built on inclusive, affordable, quality and international standard healthcare delivery based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

     

    The state Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, said this at the weekend in a lecture he delivered at the Researching Africa Conference 2 held at Princess Alexandria Hall in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

     

    The conference was organised by UNN’s Department of Sociology and Anthropology in partnership with Insight Health Group.

     

    The lecture was themed: “Three Years of Bold Reforms Across Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, and Emerging Quaternary Healthcare in Enugu State by Gov.
    Peter Mbah.”

     

    Ugwu said that Gov. Mbah’s current huge investment in healthcare infrastructure is not merely a physical investment; it is an investment in human development, social protection, productivity, and a sustainable future.

     

    He noted that the health-loving governor had envisioned a functional 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in each political ward (first-tier) and General/Cottage Hospitals scattered in the state’s 17 council areas (second-tier).

     

    He said that there is two tertiary or teaching hospitals (third-tier) and the upcoming 300-bedded International (Quaternary) Hospital, Enugu equipped with modern state-of-the-art medical equipment to serve as international medical tourism hub (four-tier).

     

    Ugwu noted that the government had created patronage and access to these health facilities for residents through an all-inclusive Universal Health Coverage (UHC) via the state health insurance scheme of N12,000 annually per resident.

     

    He encouraged all residents to embrace health insurance.

     

    According to him, the Type-2 PHCs in all 260 political wards provides quality healthcare services just a walking-distance to residents’ homes both in rural and urban areas.

     

    He noted that the PHCs, which some have started operation and others at various stages of completion, have clean water/sanitation facilities, maternal and child health systems, solar power, immunisation support and doctors/nurses quarters among others.

     

    The commissioner said that the state government recently recruited an additional 2,250 health workers to strengthen the PHCs statewide and digitalised the PHCs with Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.

     

    Ugwu said that most of the General/Cottage hospitals are included in our renovation programme, received modern diagnostic equipment, expanded surgical capacity, emergency-care infrastructure, strengthened clinical laboratories, modern ambulances and referral systems.

     

    He said that the state have two tertiary/teaching hospitals – Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH), Parklane, Enugu and the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS) Teaching Hospital, Igbo-Eno, Nsukka.

     

    “In ESUTH, we have brand-new Twin 6-Floor Laboratory and Clinical Complex; 7-Floor Nursing Complex with MRI Diagnostic Suite and 2-Floor Accident and Emergency Department with new diagnostic and surgical wing linked to a state emergency-response.

     

    “SUMAS Teaching Hospital, Igbo-Eno, Nsukka has been remodelled and expanded, and is now recruiting suitable medical and allied professionals to commence full-scale services,” he said.

     

    He said that the state’s flagship healthcare facility – Super-Specialist 300-bedded International Hospital, Enugu – was designed to curb outbound medical tourism from Africa, with the latest state-of-the-art equipment and seasoned medical professionals.

     

    On training of healthcare personnel, Ugwu said that the state secured full accreditation for Awgu School of Midwifery; Enugu State College of Nursing Sciences in Enugu and Oji River, even as the government secured WHO equipment support for them.

     

    “Gov. Mbah did an upgrade at Awgu School of Midwifery 150-bed hostel, another newly-constructed student accommodation, solar-lights, library stocked with current books and ICT; clinical demo room upgrade, modern classroom blocks with digital learning facilities among others.”

     

    He noted that due to the state government current huge investment and expansion of health facilities, the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) approved increase of annual intake of medicine and surgery students to 350 in ESUTH Teaching Hospital.

     

    Ugwu said that the state established a Public Health Emergency Operations and plans to link it with ambulances and emergency control centre as well as an ultra modern central medical store for medical supply management and secured storage.

     

    He said, “The strong health systems/tiers have enabled the state to be at the forefront of achieving the six health related SDG goals, which included: SDG Goal 1 – No Poverty – as out-of-pocket health costs are a leading driver of household poverty.

     

    “SDG Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-being – reduced mortality, better maternal outcomes and UHC; and SDG Goal 5 – Gender Equality – maternal services and women-led workforce strengthen women’s agency.

     

    “SDG Goal 8 – Decent Work and Growth – recruitment of 2,250 workers and a healthier workforce expand productivity; SDG Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities – ward-level PHCs close rural; and SDG Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities – resilient health infrastructure makes for safer communities.”

     

     

    The Commissioner of Health, Prof. George Ugwu, who is also a well respected Professor of Medicine at UNN, was applauded for his immense contributions to research and improvement of health systems and programmes.

     

    The lecture, which left the Princess Alexandria Hall filled up with top academics, was attended by the Vice-Chancellor of UNN, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, represented by his deputy, members of university council and community among others.