Asthma:Rising medication costs leave patients in Nigeria helpless
Amid Nigeria’s economic reforms, asthma patients struggle with soaring medication costs, limited healthcare access, and environmental triggers, relying on NGOs and coping strategies for survival. As most Nigerians grapple with escalating economic reforms, the high cost of medications has exacerbated their health challenges, turning manageable conditions into severe burdens. For asthma patients, the rising prices of essential medications, such as inhalers and tablets, have become a financial drain, complicating their ability to manage the condition effectively. Mrs. Blessing Chimieze, a mother of three residing in Eleme, shared her story of living with asthma during Nigeria’s economic downturn. Diagnosed with asthma in 2009, she expressed gratitude for God’s faithfulness in her life while speaking to The New Daily Prime on December 22, 2024. Recalling her experiences, she described numerous severe asthma attacks, including one during the early stages of her pregnancy. In 2020, she also faced a life-threatening attack caused by toxic fumes from a generator in her compound. “It happened at midnight,” she recounted, her voice trembling. “I almost gave up as I feared for my life.” Her husband, trained in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to revive her before rushing her to a hospital. Rejected at one facility due to her critical condition, she was eventually admitted to another hospital, where she was placed on oxygen for the first time in her life. “Seeing my husband’s face when I regained consciousness was overwhelming,” she recounted emotionally. Mrs. Chimieze explained that her condition severely limits her daily activities, causing sleepless nights, daytime fatigue, and poor concentration. “Asthmatic patients suffer a lot,” she said, her voice heavy with experience. To survive, Mrs. Chimieze has adopted strict lifestyle changes. She avoids polluted environments filled with smoke, dust, or allergens and monitors her activities to prevent triggers. Her strategies include ensuring good ventilation, drinking liquid milk to ease symptoms, and relying on medications like Ventolin nebulizers and aminophylline injections. However, the rising costs of these life-saving treatments have strained her finances. Forced to choose cheaper alternatives, she now relies on Ventolin tablets. Years ago, she could purchase a pack of 10–15 Ventolin tablets for ₦50, which lasted for weeks. Today, three tablets are sold for ₦100, double the previous price. “There’s an injection called Aminophylline. Once I take it, my heart opens up,” she explained. “But it’s expensive. It used to cost ₦1,000–₦1,500, but now it’s around ₦3,000–₦4,000. I can’t afford it, which is why I stick to Ventolin tablets and injections.” Photo Credit: Health Think Despite the economic hardship, Mrs. Chimieze manages to save ₦500 daily to buy medications and avoid emergency attacks. “Taking precautionary measures is necessary,” she asserted. “But if I start experiencing symptoms, I take the drugs immediately.” Mrs. Chimieze also shared how she incorporates local herbal remedies to relieve her pain. Two years ago, she met a herbal specialist, Mr. Augustine Ovie-Whiskey (fondly called Whiskey), and under his care, she noticed significant improvement. “Before, I visited the hospital frequently during harmattan, but now, I rarely face attacks,” she said. She credits her progress to a strict regimen that includes herbal medicine, regular exercise to expand her chest, a tailored diet, and avoiding stress and pollution. When herbal medications are unavailable, she resorts to conventional treatments, which she claims have no adverse side effects on her. In addition to herbal remedies, Mrs. Chimieze has received support from NGOs like the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) scheme. Despite her health condition, Mrs. Chimieze continues to prepare meals for her family, including dishes like Egusi soup and fried foods, which she has been advised to avoid. Her husband has restricted her from performing household chores, and her niece now assists with daily tasks to minimize stress, a major trigger for asthma attacks. “Stress triggers it a lot,” she emphasized. “I’ve been restricted from heavy work or employment.” Asthma remains a significant health issue in Nigeria, affecting approximately 13 million people. The high cost of medication and the exit of an international pharmaceutical company have created a shortage of asthma treatments in the market. Temitope Omosebi, a psychologist, asthma activist, and founder of Attack Against Asthma NGO, spoke with New Daily Prime on how he has been working to provide relief to asthma patients. The NGO, founded in September 2023, was inspired by the struggles of his aunt, who experienced severe asthma attacks in the early 2000s. The skyrocketing costs of inhalers reignited his determination to act. “I thought it would be great to start providing interventions for people who can’t afford inhalers,” Temitope explained. His NGO focuses on raising awareness and distributing medications to students, marginalized communities, and orphanages. Temitope Omosebi, founder of AttackAgainstAsthma NGO AttackAgainstAsthma with the officials of OAU’s health center including the Acting Director, Dr A A Olatunji, during the inhaler donation to students of OAU Expert Insights and Call to Action Asthma-related deaths in Nigeria exceed 10,000 annually, and experts emphasize the need for government intervention. “Asthma care isn’t just a medical issue—it’s a social responsibility,” said Dr. Oladotun Omoremi, a healthcare practitioner in Benin City. Dr. Omoremi explained that untreated asthma often leads to emergency care, creating a vicious cycle of financial strain for patients. He highlighted the role of poor urban planning and environmental hazards, such as dust and pollution, in exacerbating asthma cases. “We lack air pollution control measures,” Dr. Omoremi said. “Spoiled vehicle engines and unregulated urban construction expose residents to harmful toxins.” Dr. Oladotun Omoremi, a healthcare practitioner He called on the government to implement policies addressing environmental hazards, subsidize asthma medications, and raise public awareness about asthma management. “Prevention is more effective than treatment,” he emphasized. The challenges faced by asthma patients in Nigeria highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms. As NGOs and individuals work tirelessly to support patients, government intervention remains essential to ensure affordable, accessible, and effective asthma care for all.
43 professors petition Tinubu over appointment of Maikudi as UNIABUJA VC
By Alade Adisa All is not well at the University of ABUJA, UNIABUJA, following the appointment of Prof. Aisha Maikudi, as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution by the Governing Council. The petition was dated January 2, 2025, and sent through the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, to the President . The professors urged Tinubu to nullify all decisions taken by the current council, insisting that inability to act, could become a guiding principle in other universities across the country. It was titled: “Complaint regarding the manipulation of Vice Chancellor appointment processes at the University of Abuja.” “We feel compelled to bring to your attention our concens regarding the gross irregularities, blatant disregard for due process, violations of relevant laws and regulations, favoritism, abuse of privileges, undue interference, and lack of fairness that marred the selection process for the Vice Chancellorship of the University of Abuja. These lapses culminated in the unfortunate declaration of Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi as the substantive Vice-Chancellor. “Such events not only undermine the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President but also risk setting a dangerous Precedent for other Governing Councils in appointing Vice Chancellors across Nigerian universities. “We have lost total faith and confidence in the Governing Council as they have exhibited lack of integnty and competence, and inability to be fair and just in producing the best and most qualified Vice Chancellor for the University. “We thus urge you to take immediate corrective action to restore the integrity of the process by getting the Goveming Council dissolved and re-constituted so that a fresh and free process of Vice Chancellorship appointed will be conducted. This will additionally go along way in once again demonstrating to Nigenans the sincerity of Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “Mr President Sir, failure to address these concems could have far-reaching consequences for the University and the higher education system in Nigena as other Governing Councils will gladly emulate this ugly and unfortunate path taken by the University of Abuja Governing Council. “ The professors who signed the petition are: Prof. Olanrewaju Aladeitan, Prof, Umaru Muhammed, Prof. Mabel Evwiohana, Prof. Jude Omeje, Prof. Effiok Bassey Uwatt, Prof. Ifeoma Echezona, Prof. S.A.J Obansa, Dr. Yekeen Abdulmalik, Prof. F. N Ogwueleka, Prof. M.O Durojaye, and Prof. Ndana R.W. Others are Prof. W.D Nafarnda, Prof. O.F Ajagbona, Prof. Yusuf Ahmadu, Prof. Yau Muhammed Damagum, Prof. Abdulhamid Ozohu-Suleiman, Prof. Philip Akpen, Prof. Rosemary Udeozor, Prof. Otaki Alananan and Prof. Simon Abochol;Prof. Saleh Dauda, Prof. Muhammed A. Katcha, Prof. J.O Ogedengbe, Prof. Aisuodionoe-Shadrach O.T, Prof Sani Saka, Prof. Yusufu Zoaka, Prof. Muktar A. Muhammed, Prof. J.J. Ndana, Prof. Nkiruka C. Odoh, Prof. Ejeikwu E.0, Prof. Simon M.K, and Prof. M.U Ndagi.
Mysterious Discovery: Two bodies found in JetBlue Plane’s landing gear
A shocking discovery was made at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Monday night when two bodies were found in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue Airways plane. The incident has left authorities and passengers stunned, and an investigation is underway to determine how the individuals accessed the aircraft. According to JetBlue, the bodies were discovered during a routine inspection after the plane landed. “The circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation,” the airline said in a statement. “This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred.” The plane, an Airbus A320, had departed from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and arrived in Fort Lauderdale at 11:03 p.m. on Monday. The aircraft had also flown from Kingston, Jamaica, to JFK earlier in the day. Authorities have confirmed that the bodies are yet to be identified, but reports suggest that they may be Jamaican nationals. The Broward Sheriff’s Office and the Medical Examiner’s Office are working together to determine the cause of death and identify the individuals. The incident has raised concerns about airport security and the possibility of stowaways on commercial flights. “It’s clearly a security breach there,” said JetBlue passenger Steve Daoust. “You wonder if it’s too many passengers, it’s the holidays, but that should never happen.” This is not the first incident of its kind. In a similar case, a body was found in the wheel well of a United Airlines flight from Chicago when it landed in Maui over the holidays. As the investigation continues, JetBlue has assured passengers that the safety and security of their flights remain a top priority. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of airport security and the need for vigilance in preventing such breaches.
Police donate food items to Home for children living with disabilities
The Rivers State Police Command, through the C4i Strike Force, has donated food items to children living with disabilities. The Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, on Monday noted that the visitation commemorates the New Year celebration. Iringe-Koko said the visit to the Compassion Centre for Physically Challenged/Handicapped Children, Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt, located in Trans-Amadi, was led by the Commander, CSP Julian Igbudu, in fulfillment of a previously made vow. Items donated include bags of rice, cartons of noodles, bottles of vegetable oil, toiletries, and other gifts. The statement read in part, “The Commander and his team were passionate and reflected on the living conditions of the children, reassuring them of their continued support and safety.” Read Also:UNFPA, agency donates family planning kits to Rivers “The Commander noted that the empathetic visit and commitment to giving back to the community demonstrate the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, and his Management Team’s dedication to serving and protecting the people of Rivers State.” She added that, “This aligns with the Inspector-General of Police’s vision, emphasizing love, peace, care, cheer, and international best practices.” She called for collaborative efforts from groups and organizations to alleviate the lives of the less privileged while promoting a conducive environment for all.
US Govt donates exhibit facility to NDLEA
In an effort to combat drug-related crime, the United States government has donated a central exhibit office to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). At the inauguration ceremony held on Tuesday, the US Consulate General, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg, along with other senior US officials, handed over the facility to the anti-drug agency headquarters annex in Ikoyi, Lagos State. The Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), noted that the support from the US government and other partners showcases their personal effort against drug trafficking activities. Marwa said in 2024 about 18,500 drug traffickers were arrested, and 2.6 million kg of drugs seized. Marwa appreciated the US government for her donation, describing it as an investment for the future of Nigeria. “This contribution will not only strengthen our operational framework but also set a new standard for accountability and transparency in drug law enforcement.” Despite encountering several issues, Marwa reaffirmed their commitment to surmounting challenges and recording improvement as the fight against drug-related crime continues. Recounting their achievements in 2024, he said over 3,250 drug offenders had been convicted, including 10 drug lords, and 220 hectares of cannabis farms were destroyed. Also, he noted that over 8,200 individuals have been counselled and rehabilitated, while more than 3,000 sensitisation programmes have been organised across the country in schools, markets, and motor parks among key places. The Chairman calls for continuous support from the US government and other partners, particularly in surveillance and tracking, intelligence and information sharing, and logistics. Moreover, he hailed the US DEA attaché in Nigeria, Mr. Robert Bascoe, for his unwavering efforts and commitment while expressing gratitude to the United States Africa Command and the US Embassy for their partnership. Ms. Georg praised Marwa’s efforts and leadership style, noting that this development will improve the agency’s ability to conduct investigations, process arrestees, and post-arrest interviews. Highlighting US government investment in Nigeria, she recalled that in 2024 half a million dollars was donated for a chemical forensic laboratory in Lagos. She said, “That upgraded laboratory is now equipped with cutting-edge technology, which enhances the NDLEA’s capacity to analyse suspicious substances and to process evidence from crime scenes and suspects.” Pledging further collaboration with the Nigerian government, she acknowledged the pivotal role played by late President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29th at age 100. “We look forward to deepening our collaboration with the Nigerian government and its agencies as we continue to combat narcotics to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs, especially synthetic drugs, and that will better both of our societies,” Ms. Georg noted.
SUI Network: Everything you need to know about the blockchain platform
For a few minutes, I need you to be a blockchain technology nerd for few minutes. Have you at some point been hearing about SUI and the SUI network in the crypto community and a bit confused about what it is and means? I have got a easy breakdown for you as to what SUI means, the SUI network and its community. SUI is a Layer-1 blockchain developed by Mysten Labs, a company founded by former Meta (Facebook) engineers who worked on the Diem (formerly Libra) blockchain project and the Move programming language. After Meta discontinued Diem, these engineers decided to build their own blockchain using the knowledge and technology they had developed. SUI was designed to address some of the limitations of existing blockchains, particularly regarding scalability, transaction speed, and development complexity. Its key technical features and innovations includes object-centric model. SUI network breaks away from the traditional account-based model used by most blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Instead, it uses an object-centric model where each asset (like an NFT or a token) is treated as an independent object. This allows for parallel transaction processing, significantly increasing output. It also operates on a Move Programming Language, that is, SUI utilizes the Move programming language, also developed at Meta. Move is designed with security and asset safety in mind, making it well-suited for building smart contracts and managing digital assets. It has strong formal verification properties, which help prevent vulnerabilities. SUI has generated significant interest in the crypto community due to its innovative architecture and the pedigree of its development team. It represents a new approach to blockchain design, focusing on scalability and user experience. The object-centric model is particularly well-suited for NFTs and blockchain gaming. SUI’s high throughput and low fees make it an attractive platform for NFT and gaming applications. Investing in any cryptocurrency involves risk, and SUI is no exception. However, some potential reasons to consider investing in SUI include: •A Strong Technology •Experienced Team •Growing Ecosystem •Potential for Mass Adoption. If SUI can deliver on its promises of scalability and user experience, it has the potential to become a leading platform for decentralized applications and digital assets. SUI is an innovative project but just as innovative as this project is, it is still very important that adequate research is done as the crypto market is very volatile. Remember to research its Tokenomics and Market Volatility at every given time.
NAFDAC shuts Chinese supermarket for alleged labelling violations
In a major crackdown, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down a Chinese owned supermarket in Abuja for allegedly violating the agency’s labelling regulations and selling expired goods. Acting on a credible source, the agency stormed the Chinese supermarket located at Azba Mall, 2 Durban Street, Wasu 2, to verify the claim. The agency enforcement team leader, Shaba Mohammed, confirmed that the supermarket sold products written only in Chinese language, describing it as a violation of the agency’s law. The supermarket owned and managed by a Chinese national alleged that they were in the process of obtaining a licensing and translating product label permit from NAFDAC, as mandated by law. He revealed that further investigation will be carried out to determine how the product bypassed labelling requirements and gained entrance into the country without being intercepted. After inspecting the supermarket warehouse store, it was discovered that 90 percent of the goods were labelled only in Chinese. “You also find some Nigerians patronising the supermarket.” He noted that the aim of the operation was to stop the sales of the products to the public ,acknowledging the goals of the agency. Expressing concern, Mohammed said, “If you must sell anything labelled in either Arabic, Chinese, or Indian language, then you must have the English translation of it. He added, “So, how are they able to read what they have bought? Not only that, when you look at the date markings, some of the items have expired, and they are still on the shelves. Read Also: NAFDAC probes suspected fake Amoxycillin capsules “Even if NAFDAC gave them a global listing to import the items, the labelling ought to have been in the English language. “So, they can’t present to us any document from NAFDAC for which the items are in foreign language. That is not acceptable. So, that is why we have to seal off the supermarket. “We have to invite them, do thorough investigation before we conclude on the case. You can’t be here and then you just bring in anything. No, it doesn’t happen. Emphasising the need of upholding national standard, he said “You can’t have a country in a country.
Ibadan Stampede: Court to rule Jan. 13 on bail applications for Ooni’s ex- wife,others
An Ibadan High Court has set Tuesday, January 13, 2025, to deliver its ruling on the bail applications filed by Naomi Silekunola, the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oriyomi Hamzat, the CEO of Agidigbo FM and Fasasi Abdullahi, the principal of Islamic High School, Ibadan. The three defendants are facing trial for their alleged involvement in a tragic stampede at a December funfair held at Islamic High School, which claimed the lives of 35 people, mostly children. On December 24, they were remanded at Agodi Correctional Centre after being charged with conspiracy, negligence resulting in harm, and failing to ensure adequate security and medical support at the event. READ ALSO:Ibadan Stampede: Actress Opeyemi Aiyeola cancels charity At a court session today, the defendants’ lawyers presented separate arguments seeking their release on bail. Musibau Adetunmbi represented Silekunola, while Adekunle Sobaloju appeared for Hamzat and Abdullahi. Opposing the bail requests, Oyo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, urged the court to deny the applications, arguing that the defendants’ release could hinder the trial process. After hearing arguments from both sides, the presiding judge, Justice Kamarudeen Olawoyin, announced that a decision on the bail applications would be delivered on January 13.
Nigeria Customs Service receives over 573,000 applications for 3,927 vacancies
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has revealed that it received a staggering 573,519 applications for the 3,927 available positions in the recently concluded 2024/2025 recruitment exercise, barely a week after the portal was opened. The overwhelming number of applicants far exceeds the vacancies available, highlighting the competitive nature of the recruitment process. Last week, Finance Minister Olawale Edun had announced that the Federal Government had approved the hiring of 3,927 officers to address gaps within the service and improve trade facilitation. Providing an update on the recruitment process after the application deadline had passed, the NCS’s National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, confirmed that the total number of applicants surpassed half a million. He outlined the breakdown of applicants, which included various categories for both general duty staff and support staff. Maiwada explained that the recruitment process had been smooth and thorough, and he provided a detailed overview of the applicants in the various categories, emphasising the widespread interest in the available positions.
Edo gov Okpebholo nominates six commissioner-designates for confirmation
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has submitted the names of six individuals nominated to serve as commissioners in his administration. The names were sent to the state House of Assembly for confirmation on Tuesday. In a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, the following commissioner-designates were proposed: Marie Olabisi-Idaomi, Paddy Iyamu, Paul Ohounbamu, Washington Osifo, Lucky Eseigbe, and Andrew Ijegbai. The letter, titled “Request for the Confirmation of Commissioners,” formally presented the nominees to the Assembly for consideration and approval. It reads, “I write at the instance of the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, to forward for the consideration and confirmation of the Assembly the underlisted names as Commissioner designates.” The Governor’s letter further conveyed his hope for the swift confirmation of the nominees, closing with warm regards on behalf of the Governor. This move is part of Governor Okpebholo’s continued efforts to form a functional and effective cabinet to advance the state’s development agenda.
