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Obaseki Urges Better Collaboration, Investment To Accelerate Tropical Diseases
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for increased investment and collaboration among global stakeholders to accelerate and sustain the progress recorded in the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), which affect over 1 billion people across the world.
Obaseki made the call in commemoration of World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day 2023, with the theme, “Act Now. Act Together. Invest in Neglected Tropical Diseases,” celebrated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partner agencies.
The governor who reinstated his government’s commitment to combating NTDs and other diseases in the state, charged global stakeholders to review efforts at guaranteeing sustainable financing to provide safe water and improve sanitation and hygiene so as to sustain the gains recorded in the prevention and management of NTDs.
He said, “On this World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, we recognize the impact of these diseases on communities and the need for continued efforts towards their elimination. As we mark this important day, it is crucial that we not only celebrate the progress made in managing these diseases but also reinstate the need to sustain investments to maintain that progress.
“NTDs disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations, and without continued support, the progress made in managing them will be lost. Investment not only provides the necessary resources for research and treatment, but it also drives innovation and advances in technology, allowing for more effective and efficient ways to tackle these diseases. By committing to sustained investment, we can build on the progress made, eliminate the diseases and provide a brighter future for those affected.”
While reassuring the government’s commitment to the health and well-being of Edo residents, Obaseki stated, “As a government, we understand that a strong and effective health system is key to ensuring the health and well-being of all residents in Edo, and have made it a priority to improve our health systems, address gaps in access to care, and provide resources for those in need.
“We are investing in infrastructure and equipment for health facilities, strengthening disease surveillance and response systems, increasing access to essential medicines, and training and supporting healthcare workers. We have also stepped up awareness campaigns to help prevent the spread of NTDs and other diseases. I believe that by working together and continuing to make these investments, we can build a health system that meets the needs of all residents and guarantees their health and well-being.”
A coalition of civil society organisations in Zamfara Central has publicly called on philanthropist Yazeed Danfulani to contest for the senatorial seat in the National Assembly in the 2027 elections, citing his extensive humanitarian contributions and commitment to community development.
In a statement released on Sunday, the group’s spokesperson, Nuraddeen Garba Gusau, emphasised that the growing support for Danfulani transcends mere political sentiment.
“This is about Yazeed Danfulani’s proven dedication to the welfare of our people, demonstrated consistently without ever holding elected office,” Gusau said.
Danfulani, a prominent figure in Zamfara Central, has earned widespread admiration for his charitable initiatives.
He has funded the education of numerous children, offering opportunities to those who previously faced bleak prospects.
” His generosity also extends to providing financial and material aid to the less fortunate, helping families meet their basic needs.”
He said “Beyond individual support, Danfulani has bolstered small-scale entrepreneurs by distributing cars, tricycles, and financial capital, enabling many to achieve self-reliance.
“His efforts have significantly improved livelihoods across the region. Additionally, as a key supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara, Danfulani has played a vital role in strengthening the party’s unity and presence in the state.
The coalition believes Danfulani’s track record as a private citizen is a testament to his potential as a legislator.
“His selfless contributions are merely a glimpse of what he could achieve with the authority to legislate and attract development at the national level,” Gusau added.
News
Kaduna: Group calls EFCC, National Assembly, Kaduna state government’s intervention on alleged diversion of public funds
By Amos Tauna, Kaduna
The Executive Director of a non-governmental organization, Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative (EBYTDI), Mr Daniel Ejembi, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the National Assembly and Kaduna state government to intervene on alleged hijacking of a federal constituency project intended for public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
A statement issued by the Executive Director described the alleged diversion of the public resources to a private entity is a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a.
According to him, “This diversion of public resources to a private entity is a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a. We demand swift intervention by the Kaduna State Government, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the National Assembly to recover misused funds and prioritize education for all.”
The statement stated that investigation reveals that a federal project sponsored by Yakubu Umar Barde, former member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, was alleged to have been unlawfully diverted to Fatima Academy, a private school owned by Abdulhadi Abubakar.
Ejembi explained, “The project, initially earmarked for constructing a public school, was instead executed at Fatima Academy, which lacks registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).”
He added that the contractor, Amrah Farms Nigeria Limited (RC-1523474), with directors including Abdulyekin Bello Tahir and Bello Halimat Sadiq, executed the project in violation of its original mandate, lamenting that public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a faced severe deficits, including dilapidated classrooms, lack of sanitation facilities, and inadequate learning resources, exacerbating educational inequalities.
The Executive Director called for immediate probe into the alleged diversion of funds by relevant anti-corruption agencies and also called for urgent construction and renovation of classrooms, toilets, and perimeter fencing in the public schools.
He also appealed for the provision of desks, learning materials, and safe water systems for students and advised for legal action against unregistered institutions like Fatima Academy and accountability for involved parties.
Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Easter Monday morning.
Late Pope had been in and out of hospital in the last few weeks. He made a surprise appearance at the Easter Sunday service at Vatican on Sunday.
Details Later…