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馃嚦馃嚞Punch Nigeria路5 hours ago
Nigeria's low health insurance coverage leaves millions vulnerable, experts warn
Health experts have expressed concern over Nigeria's low health insurance coverage, stating that less than 10 percent of the population is covered. This leaves millions vulnerable to poverty due to high out-of-pocket medical expenses. Speaking at the 21st Annual Scientific Conference and Faculty Gathering of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, experts called for increased investment in healthcare financing, broader health insurance coverage, and greater use of artificial intelligence. Professor Oluwarotimi Akinola, a former President of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria, highlighted Nigeria's failure to develop a sustainable healthcare financing model, contrasting it with Ghana's 40 percent and China's 95 percent health insurance coverage. He also noted that underfunding has led to weak infrastructure, inadequate staffing, brain drain, and reliance on donor funding. Professor Akinola emphasized that achieving Universal Health Coverage requires investment in preventive healthcare and addressing social determinants like water, sanitation, housing, nutrition, and the environment. While acknowledging AI's potential to improve healthcare, he stressed it cannot replace sustainable financing. Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, and Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Professor Olufemi Fasanmade, also advocated for expanded health insurance and the integration of AI, while emphasizin
11 min read
馃嚦馃嚞Punch Nigeria路6 hours ago
Abuja's transformation reflects Nigeria's development, says President Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu stated on Wednesday that the infrastructure transformation in the Federal Capital Territory serves as a blueprint for nationwide development. Speaking at the inauguration of the newly constructed Collector Road C01 and its bridge in the FCT's Institution and Research District, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized that infrastructure is crucial for economic prosperity. He pledged that his administration would not tolerate abandoned projects and would continue to invest in cities, satellite towns, and rural communities to ensure all Nigerians receive the benefits of good governance. The President noted that the project, which generated hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, was initiated after an appeal from the Body of Benchers regarding traffic congestion and lack of access infrastructure. He commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for his dedication, while Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, expressed gratitude for the project's execution. Richard Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, highlighted that the road, with its link bridge, underground drainage, and solar street lights, will provide a critical alternative route to academic institutions and surrounding communities.
馃嚦馃嚞Punch Nigeria路6 hours ago
US-based Ogun indigenes back Yayi for 2027 governorship election, pledge diaspora support
A group of Ogun State indigenes and professionals residing in the United States, operating under the USA Ogun State Indigenes and Professionals Forum, has endorsed Solomon Adeola, known as Yayi, for the 2027 governorship election. Adeola is the All Progressives Congress candidate for Ogun State. The forum has committed to mobilizing diaspora support for Adeola by promoting investment, policy engagement, and development initiatives aimed at fostering the state's growth. In a statement, the group emphasized its dedication to the peace, progress, and prosperity of Ogun State, highlighting the diaspora's crucial role in driving development through professional expertise, investment, education, healthcare, technology, agriculture, youth empowerment, and economic partnerships. The statement was jointly signed by Adeniyi Oridate, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees; Stanford Aderibigbe, President/Chief Executive Officer; and Rotimi Oyekanmi, Secretary-General. The forum expressed confidence in Adeola's ability to build upon the achievements of the current administration led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, stressing the need for continuity, competence, accountability, innovation, and inclusive leadership. They also commended the APC leadership for supporting Adeola's emergence as the party's candidate, viewing it as a reflection of confidence in his capacity to unite the party and articulate a development-focused agenda. The group urged all Ogun indigenes, both at home and abroad, as well