₦airaland Forum

...Sunday Adekanbi emerges National President of Nigerian Polytechnic students


The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has elected a new national executives that will pilot the affairs of the union, VAM News reports.

The election of the new officers was conducted at the 2019 convention of NAPS held at the Edo state Polytechnic Usen at the weekend.

Comr Abdulmajeed Oyeniyi emerged unopposed as convention chairman of NAPS Unity convention 2019 and  Option A4 style(Line Up Behind Your candidate) was adopted.

Comrade Adekanbi Sunday Asuku from Kaduna polytechnic got a total of 27 votes to emerged as the new president of NAPS, beating his opponent Comrade Rio Oghale Rex from Delta state polytechnic, Oguashuku who got 10 votes.

Other executives are Obioha Collins Chinedu (Federal Polytechnic, Nekede Owerri Imo state) Vice President special duties, Anidi Samuel (Federal Poytechnic Ekowe, Bayelsa state), Vice President External Affairs, Orjiukw Stephen (IMT Enugu), Dio Oghale Rex (Delta state Polytechnic Ogunashuku) Senate President, Ibrahim Isah Adam (Kwara state Polytechnic, Ilorin) Deputy Senate President and Nwosu Henry (Fedpoly Nekede) Director Special Duties.

Chairman of the Convention, Comr Abdulmajeed Oyeniyi, said a total of 37 delegates drawn from Polytechnic and Monotechnics across the country, attended the convention.

Abdulmajeed, thanked the delegates for the decorum and maturity exhibited throughout the convention.

He described the election as one of the freest and fairest in the history of the union and thanked delegates for their good behaviour and support which led to a smooth conduct of the elections.

Speaking with newsmen shortly after his election, the newly elected NAPS President said: “I feel excited and I thank God because of the confidence repose in me by the students because they believe that by the grace of God I will stand for their rights because we know that Polytechnic students are facing numerous challenges in Nigeria.

Comrade Adekanbi said he would ensure that agreements signed between unions and the government are honoured to put an end to discrimination of polytechnic students and the counterparts in the country.

Photos And Full Communique below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/breaking-naps-elects-new-exco.html

The Executive Director, OneForAll Initiative, Babawale Popoola, on Saturday called on Nigerians to get tested to enable them to know their HIV status.

While speaking with VAM Correspondent, Babawale made the call in Osogbo during a FREE HIV SCREENING exercise organised by OneForAll Initiative, a Non-Governmental Organisation, to commemorate 2019 World AIDS Day.

The theme of this year’s activity is “Know Your Status’’.

He said that the Day, which was commemorated annually on Dec. 1, gave opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV and to show support for people living with the virus.

He added that the day was also set aside to enable everyone to know their status and to fight against stigmatisation and discrimination.

“World AIDS Day is observed on Dec.1 globally. I had my test a few days ago and I encourage everyone to get tested to know their status.

Adv. Babawale Popoola, Executive Director, OneForAll Initiative, said that the Day was set aside to create awareness on HIV and AIDS.

Babawale recalled that in 2016, no fewer than 1.4 million people were tested and became aware of their HIV status.

He said that the Day offered an opportunity to highlight the success of worldwide efforts to combat HIV and AIDS as well as the importance of continued support to end the scourge in 2030.

“Nigeria is a global signatory to end AIDS in 2030, which means that every Nigerian that is positive must be placed on treatment and that is why this year, the theme is `know your status’.

“Knowing your status is the entry point of accessing HIV services and those who turn positive are given anti-retroviral drugs free of charge.

“Nigeria can contribute to the aspiration of ending AIDS in 2030 as we encourage everyone to know their status and we are determined not to leave anyone behind.

“In Osun State, with a team of medical professionals as volunteers we are conducting free HIV screening, counseling and consultation free of charge,’’ he said.

The Osun State Commissioner For Health, Dr Rafiu Ismaotu has affirmed the commitment of the government to providing support that will ensure healthy living of those living with HIV in the state as an endorsement for OneForAll Initiative's activities.


Details below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/12/world-aids-day-2019-know-your-hiv.html

A Lady identified as Labake Olowokere allegedly stabbed her lover, Seun Komolafe, to death with a fork after she reportedly caught him with another woman, VAM News has learnt.

It was learnt, Labake had visited Seun’s residence in the Okeopo area of Ilesha around 8pm on Monday to pick her cooking gas when she met another woman in the apartment.

After recovering from the initial shock, Labake was said to have picked a quarrel with Seun and the other woman, whose name could not be immediately ascertained as time of reporting.

In the ensuing fight, Labake allegedly picked up a fork and stabbed Seun in the stomach and he died on the spot.

Further investigation revealed that the acting Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mustafa Katayeyanjue has confirmed the incident and stated that the Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Ige, had ordered an investigation into the matter.

He said, “Around 10:30pm on Monday, one Adeyemi Ojo of Araromi Street reported to the police that one Labake Olowookere of Ido Ijesha, a lover of Seun Komolafe of the Okeopo area of Ilesha , stabbed Seun in the stomach with a fork and killed him on the spot.

“ From preliminary findings, Labake went to the residence of his lover to pick her cooking gas. On getting to the house, she met another woman there and a fight ensued.

“ It was during the fight that she reportedly took a fork and stabbed Seun in the stomach.

"He died on the spot."

VAM News gathered that the corpse of the deceased has been deposited in the Wesley Guild Hospital morgue in Ilesha.”


CLICK LINK BELOW TO READ MORE:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/lady-stabs-lover-to-death-with-fork-in.html

In a press release by the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Ogun state axis calling on the governor to extends the tenure of the OOU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ganiyu Olatunji Olatunde so as to finish the good work he has started in the varsity, VAM News reports.

The new sheriff in Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU

The purpose of life is not just to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate about lifting people, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well so that in turn, God and the people around will speak the same about you even in your absence. 

Hence, history will not forgive us if we refuse to give kudos to the working Vice Chancellor since we would have started a faceoff with him if the reverse is the case. 

In compliance with this century,  our rules of engagement has been modernised even in the parlance of Aluta as we don't only fight oppressors we also hail whoever is due in expectation of more good deeds. 

On this note, On behalf of the entire students of Olabisi Onabanjo University,under a mother umbrella of the National Association Of Nigerian Students, Ogun State axis, I appreciate and commend the effort of the  University's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ganiyu Olatunji Olatunde, for his efforts, zeal and enthusiasm made towards the development of the institution. 

We must confirm  that it is not just a mere hearsay but an achievement glaring to the eyes of all about the different infrastructural development being put in place for the comfortability of students and ease of learning in Olabisi Onabanjo University. 

Among your achievements which cannot be swept under the carpet are;   
      "The completion of the new ICT building, the completion of the Senate building, the ongoing construction of the new Faculty of Social Science, Faculty of Science, College of Agriculture sciences  Ayetoro, Six studio complex at College of Engineering ibogun, Department of Anatomy Morbid Anatomy complex, Constructions of Animal house in Sagamu Campus, purchase of the new emergency ambulance for ibogun and Ayetoro campus."

All the aforementioned, were all done within the space of three years. 

To this end, we find no better person to complete the wonderful works going on in the Olabisi Onabanjo University  other than, Prof. Ganiyu Olatunji Olatunde. 

•Download The VAM NewsOnline APP now on playstore (CLICk HERE)


In a statement signed by Com. ADEYEMI SAMSON AJASA, General Secretary, National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS Ogun state axis (09037935067), however beg the government of Ogun state under the leadership of our beloved Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun MFR, to dignify our students loving Vice Chancellor with a second term in office so as to finish the good work he has started in the institution. 


SEE MORE PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE INSTITUTION BELOW:

https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/nans-commend-oou-vice-chancellor-for.html

Yahuza Tijjani, the Bayero University student detained since September 30 for criticizing Kano lawmaker Kabiru Isma’il has been released. 


Justice Aminu Gabari of the magistrate court in Kano ordered the unconditional release of the second-year student of the Department of Science and Technology Education who missed a semester while behind bars over the Facebook post in which he criticized the lawmaker representing Madobi Local Government Area in the state assembly. 


VAM News reported that the Kabiru who was accused of abusing his office by influencing the prolonged detention of the student, said the state’s chief judge Nuruddeen Sagir ordered the student’s prolonged detention in a leaked audio.


READ THE FACEBOOK POST BELOW:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/varsity-student-detained-for.html

Alelia Murphy, a 114-year-old former seamstress who had been recognized as the oldest living American, has died.  

Murphy, a New Yorker who was drawn to the city by the Harlem Renaissance, died a few days ago as confirmed by her granddaughter, Nefer Nekhet.

"It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of Mrs. Alelia Murphy," the health care workers' union 1199SEIU, of which Murphy's daughter was a member, said in a statement.

"Mrs. Murphy was the oldest living American, having celebrated her 114th birthday in July, surrounded by her family, friends, community leaders, and members of our AFRAM Caucus."

The cause of Murphy's death was not immediately available. Murphy was 114 years, 140 days when she died, the Gerontology Research Group verified.


See World's oldest person Below:

https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/oldest-living-american-alelia-murphy-is.html

The Executive Director of Eagle Lead Development Initiative (ELDI), Peter Ezekiel has narrated the UequalsU to VAM News.

It simply means:

U - Undetectable= U -Untransmittable

This simply means if the Viral Load in your blood stream is Undetectable, you Cannot transmit HIV to a negative partner. 

How can you achieve this? 

If you are living with HIV, please be dedicated to you Anti Retroviral Regimen (ARV) and be sure to attain that point where your Viral #Load is no longer noticeable/detectable.

How you can help

If you know a person living with HIV, please, help them to adhere to the treatment offered to them in HIV facilities so that they can achieve undetectable viral load. This only happens when a positive individual is committed to taking the ARV. 

So, know your HIV status today. Get tested. 


You can contact us, CHECK NUMBER BELOW:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/understanding-uequalsu-uu-peter-ezekiel.html

The outgoing students painted their dresses with different colors and inscriptions such as 'NYSC is calling', 'Bye-Bye FPA', 'No More Lecture', 'Living low life is over', 'No more test', 'No more Ijan', 'No More Night Class' among others, VAM News reports.

It was gathered that some students came prepared in exotic cars to display their wealth in celebration of their final exams.

Fellow students could be seen pumping Champagne, Exotic wine to catch a portion of the raining money, in a picture obtained by VAM correspondent.

Some demonstrated with facial makeup and poises signifying the completion of their studies at the Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti, as they walked out of Examination halls.

Departments such as Accountancy dept, faculty of Engineering, Environmental, Science among others...

Comrade Tobi H. Optimistic, a graduating student from the department of Accountancy said Signing out to explore greatness,

              "I want to appreciate God for the privilege granted to scape through this academic tussle safely.

I want to say that the values added through this academic journey coupled with unionism and its theatric will aways linger in my memory.

Affirmatively, I will add values to the political,  business, academic, humanity and the world at large."

The Students took to various social media platforms to display their joy.


MORE Amazing Photos below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/ado-poly-lecturer-rejoices-with.html

...Family cry out for help in finding their teenage daughter who has been missing for over 2 weeks in Ondo

A young lady identified as Adegbamigbe Temitope Esther has been missing for over 2 weeks, VAM News reports.

Esther, 17, reportedly left her house in Akure, Ondo state on the 3rd of November and has not been seen since then.

Please help find her as her aged mother is reportedly sickened with grief.

Anyone with useful information should kindly contact the nearest police station or send an email to adeoye.elijah@gmail.com


Full Details below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/family-cry-out-for-help-in-finding.html

The Ekiti state University, Ado-Ekiti has produced the Highest number of first class in Nigeria Law schools among all State Varsities in Nigeria, VAM News reports.

List of First Class Students At The 2019 Bar Results Based On Varsities:


1. Abia State Uni - 1

2. Adekunle Ajasin Uni - 1

3. Afe Babalola Uni - 6

4. Ahmad Bello Uni - 1

5. Ambrose Alli Uni - 1

6. Anambra State Uni - 1

7. Babcock University - 10

8. Benson Idahosa Uni - 1

9. Benue State Uni - 1

10. Bowen University - 1

11. Crescent University - 2

12. Delta State Uni - 1

13. Ebonyi State Uni - 1

14. Ekiti State Uni - 6

15. Enugu State Uni - 3

16. Foreign Students - 7

17. Kogi State Uni - 1

18. Lagos State Uni - 2

19. Niger Delta Uni - 1

20. Nnamdi Azikwe Uni - 5

21. Obafemi Awolowo Uni- 13

22. Olabisi Onabanjo Uni- 4

23. Osun State Uni - 2

24. Rivers State Uni - 3

25. University of Abuja - 2

26. University of Benin - 7

27. University of Calabar - 1

28. University of Ibadan - 26

29. University of Ilorin - 6

30. University of Jos - 4

31. University of Lagos - 9

32. University of Maiduguri- 2

33. University of Nigeria - 10

34. University of Uyo - 2

35. Usman Dan Fodio Uni - 2.


A total of 147 students made First Class.

Lagos Campus produced the highest with 79 First Class students.

University of Ibadan produced the highest with 26 First Class students.


SEE More BREAKDOWN OF RESULTS Below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/ekiti-varsity-produces-highest-no-of.html

The Ondo State government has commended the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for helping with the posting of corps members to schools, thereby making up for shortage of teachers, VAM News has gathered.

The state’s Head of Service, Mr Dare Aragbaiye, gave the commendation while receiving the management members of NYSC who were on a courtesy visit to his office in Akure on Tuesday.

Aragbaiye assured the corps members posted to the state of government’s continued support to ensure that they served their fatherland in a favourable environment.

He stressed the need to sustain the cordial relationship between the organisation and the state government, particularly on matters relating to the welfare of corps members posted to the state.

The head of service reiterated the Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu-led administration’s commitment to embark on development projects that would make the state a hub for foreign direct investment.

In her remarks, the NYSC state coordinator, Mrs Grace Akpabio, appealed to the state government to direct its ministries, agencies and parastatals not to reject corps members posted to them.

Akpabio solicited for assistance from the government towards the completion of its camp clinic project and other programmes initiated for the wellbeing of corps members in the state.

She, however, decried the non-payment of allowances to corps members serving in the state to complement the amount being given to them by the Federal Government.


READ REACTIONS FROM CORPERS BELOW:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/nysc-members-making-up-for-teachers.html

The Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA has expelled six students over the bullying of a fellow student, VAM News reports.  

The expulsion is sequel to the recommendation of an investigative panel which probed the incident that took place in an off campus hostel on Saturday, November 16, 2019. 

The Expelled students are : 

1. Popoola Olaniyi Agboola IDD/ (300L) 

2. Oluwadare Faith Tobiloba FST ( 200L) 

3. Nandi Yohanna Jessica IPE/ ( 200L) 

4. Ajuwon Tolani Emmanuella FAT/ (100L) 

5. Emmanuel Funmilayo Taiwo FAT/ (100L)and 6. Alao Olabimpe Cecilia CSP/ (100 L).

The expulsion is in line with the position of Page 48 of the 2019/2020 Students Handbook which prescribes expulsion from the University for Students who engage in, " Physical assault or battery on another student outside the university premises". As a consequence of their expulsion their studentship of FUTA ceases forthwith with all its rights and privileges. 

In a statement signed by Adegbenro Adebanjo, Deputy Director, Corporate Communications, FUTA revealed that the punishment meted out to the affected students is not to pander to the justifiable public outcry that greeted their odious act but in tandem with the rules and regulations as contained in the Students Code of Conduct as stipulated in the University Handbook and oath of Matriculation which all students are made to sign and subscribe to.


Full Details of the students below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/futa-expels-six-students-over.html

SOLIDARITY CALL TO THE RECTOR, FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC ADO-EKITI, Engr. Dayo Hephzibah Oladebeye FOR THE CONDUCT OF ANOTHER SUG ELECTION OR CONSTITUTION OF A CARETAKER GOVERNMENT.

Autarian and combatant greetings to you from concerned students of Fedpolad.

On behalf of the entire fedpolad students, I write to officially bring to your notice our demand to conduct another SUG ELECTION or propel a CARETAKER COMMITTEE.

I will say the student union government is the only voice of the student as been enclosed in the union Constitution, A union govern by an elected or constituted CARETAKER are the representative of the student in agitating for the student's right and its also the highest decision maker of the student.

It's is a misery that our students right to vote and choose who govern their union as been stated by the union's Constitution as been truncated due to the irregularities that occurred during the last student union election by some students stakeholder, who were trying to highjack the result of the election in favour of their candidate.

Subject to this, led to a protest by the students in which the school management was left with no choice than to suspend all union activities within the campus till further notice. 

I will vigorously call your attention to the stipulated one year or rather 10 month of the present dissolved executive, who came to Power on the 27th of September 2018,  whose tenure is constitutionally over.  

The school second semester examination will be ending this week yet no information as been release from your amiable office to shed light on where our students union will be heading. 

As of now the tension of our next leadership and mode is yet to be revealed, even the aspirant are getting tired after lots of spending on campaign and consultation. 

Our union as been facing lots of tragedy as so far been witnessed, I must say the student of our institution are not happy with this but the fear of sanctions, are lying low and yet to go on rampage. 

On this note, on behalf of the student we appeal to the school management to Conduct another free and fair election or constitute a CARE TAKER Committee before the school academic session comes to an end.

Proper handing over of the current executive to the newly elected or constituted committee in due time to uphold the intermediary between the student and management.


READ MORE:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/students-call-for-conduct-of-another.html

By Tunde Bright Olorungbotemi, Rivers

Some Youths under the aegis of Ogoni Youths forum embarked on a peaceful protest in Rivers state on Monday to condemn the Rector and chairman of the governing council for stealing of properties and embezzlement in the Kenule Beeson Saro Wiwa Polytechnic Bori, Rivers state, VAM News reports.

The Rector of Kenule Beeson Saro Wiwa Polytechnic Bori, Dr. M.O Georgewill and the chairman of the Governing council of the Polytechnic are accused of unprecedented stealings in the Polytechnic.

Recently, some transformers that was about to unlawfully taken by some top management and Governing council members was intercepted by the Youths of the host Community.

The interception was made possible due to classified information given to the youth leader Comrade Dornubari Asogho.

The executive governor of Rivers State, E.N Wike has in several fora challenge youths of host Communities where government institutions are sited to protect it.

Speaking during the protest, one of the leaders said, "I feel sad that such news is coming from my Alma mater and those saints, who accused me of trying to embezzle students union fund of which they have no evidence to back their claims till tomorrow and yet they expelled me, victimized thousands of students for my sake, are those involved in the looting of the polytechnic properties and embezzlement. 


Comrade Asogho called on the Governor of the state to please check the activities of the management of Kenule Beeson Saro Wiwa Polytechnic Bori before it will be too late. 

While addressing the VAM NewsOnline, the youths has these questions to ask the Rector:

1. Whereabout of several equipments in the world class New Technology Center that was built by Rotimi Amaechi and was managed by the defunct Rivers State sustainable development, many of the equipments has been looted by those men?


2. The whereabout of all the soundproof at the Polytechnic?


3. All the vehicles of the Polytechnic?


4. The sudden disappearance of new brand bus of Center of Continuous Education CCE?


Continue Reading:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/youths-protest-against-polytechnic.html

Idanre Focus online Media Group has this evening donated the sum of fifty thousand Naira (#50,000.00) to Idanre Development Foundation for the development of the town, VAM News reports.

Making this announcement during its weekly WhatsApp Platform programme, "Sunday Summit" which held today was focused on marking its 2nd anniversary, Mr. Agbelusi Ganiyu, who is one of the Administrators  of the group revealed that they, Deacon Ojo Akintola, Jackson Ige Olonimoyo, Akintoye Ademulegun and himself had decided to hand over the fund donated by some well meaning people for the celebration of the second anniversary to Idanre Development Foundation because  giving to the needy ones selflessly and rendering services to humanity are better than other festivities which will come up later in a milder form. 

He stressed that the Administrators of Idanre Focus had decided to donate the cash fund to Idanre Development Foundation for whichever immediate purpose the money will be used for.

It will help in any little way to contribute to the development of the people of Idanre Kingdom.

It is also a contribution to the foundation for its commendable humanitarian services which had been winning the Foundation lots of praises from both near and far with the most recent award from Ondo State Government being the latest. 

Meanwhile, the three donors are Mr Jide Olurankinse, the son of Late High Chief Olagundoye Olurankinse, the Logbosere of Idanre Kingdom, Mr. Akinfosile Taiwo, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of YINKPRAISE Nigeria Ltd and Dr. Kayode Omishogbon, the Chief Medical Director of General Hospital, Idanre.

He said more donations are still being expected as representatives of Idanre Development Foundation are expected to come and collect the sum of Fifty Thousand Naira (#50,000.00) from Mr. Agbelusi Ganiyu at Owa's Palace, Odode Idanre in Ondo State on Monday morning.

Source: 
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/idanre-focus-platform-donates-cash-for.html

Corps Members executing their community Development services(CDS) under Charity Community group in Enugu-North Local Government, Enugu state on the 22nd of November 2019, VAM News reports.

The members of Development Service was successfully carried out massive sensitization at two different schools.

The campaign was aimed at educating and enlightening on;
‘’The effect of formal education in our future as leaders of tomorrow. Is formal education the key to a successful future?’’

After the successful exercise, the students were much elated as a lot of knowledge was impacted on them.

The second sensitization took place at Coal Secondary School, Coal camp, Enugu.

Here, the members of Charity CDS also successfully sensitized the students of the school on the topic;
‘’The effects of entrepreneurship and skill acquisition in our future as leaders of tomorrow. Is skills acquisition or entrepreneurship the key to a successful future?’’

The students were educated on the meaning and purpose of skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, skills acquisition as enabler of entrepreneurship, skills that are expected to be developed in order to thrive in the world today, the advantages and disadvantages of entrepreneurship in Nigeria and how to take advantages of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship.

The students were so happy and excited to be visited, and after the exercise.

President of the Charity CDS, Comrade Melodi Adeola said the campaign was aimed at building the students to be relevant in our society and for future.

He also went ahead to prove that they are true to their slogan - “touching lives” by providing scholarships to 4 students that contributed excellently during our talks and discussions.

The scholarship covers the tuition fees of the next term.

Charity CDS of Enugu-North LGA are happy to announce that this sensitisation is just the prelude to what is coming next, he said.

There were sensitisation invitation letters sent to 8 schools, and these two schools that have hosted them were sensitised excellently.

The goals of this Charity CDS group is to touch lives, hence they are conducting a sensitisation operation that would lead to a successful implementation of their proposed project.

Each school is being sensitised on different topics, that are vital to the students for their future.

The proposed project would entail the sensitised schools attending a competitive and educative event that would be hosted by the Charity CDS, where each school would have student representatives that would provide a presentation based on the topic we've discussed with them in our sensitisations.

There would be judges that would grade the presentations, and scholarships,
awards and presents would be given to the best performing schools and best performing students respectively.

Each school are encouraged to also come with other students that would support their representatives, as they would be part of the general audience.

This is just a summary of what we can expect next from these inspiring leaders and members of the Charity CDS.

As we look towards the new months, they plan to sensitise more schools and prepare for the project describe above.

We can not wait to see how fulfilling this project would be, hence, there is a call for sponsors that would be interested in collaborating and touching the lives of the students.

Please call: The president - 08164453786, the P.R.O/project committee head - 07017179948, the sensitisation committee head -09036374595, or the secretary - 07035240180, if you are interested.


Details & Photos Below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/corps-members-sensitise-students-on.html

A picture of the social media regulation bill been photocopied word to word from Singapore is making rounds online.

In the past few days, the Social Media Bill regulation bill and the hate speech bill has taken the media agog; with youths, women, men and the entire citizenry crying loud for the bill to be abandoned.

The Social Media bill as seen in the document below is just a full extraction of the look alike bill in Singapore, nothing was changed, nothing was corrected.

The bill is considered a plagiarism act.

We all say no to the social media bill regulation bill. The beauty of democracy is the criticisms from the masses; this not a military rule, neither is it an autocratic dispensation.

It is encapsulated in the fundamental human rights, for individuals to express their feelings, their views and the way they feel about a matter.
If this bill succeeds, then the only weapon left in the hands of the populace will be taken away.
It is a no no no.

Nigerians should keep on reacting against such anti-human bill.

#saynotosocialmediabill.


See Image/Photo below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/saynotosocialmediabill-bill-is-from.html

One of the most embarrassing things you can do on social media for your business is to mess up a post.


For some of us, that might be a spelling or grammar mistake, for others, it may involve a humiliating auto-correct situation. For others still, it might mean giving away a company secret earlier than intended.


Whatever it is that you’ve done or might do, you can ensure it doesn’t happen again with this handy social media post checklist.






Social Media Post Checklist:
Very little can be taken back on social media. A mistake in a post can be embarrassing or deeply troubling to your PR department. It can alienate customers or cause them to question your professionalism. Before hitting send, post, or tweet, run your potential post through this handy checklist.



Proofread before sending to avoid silly mistakes:
We all love spell check but it’s not always enough. Spell check doesn’t always catch homonyms (words that sound alike but are spelled differently) and depending on your settings, it may not catch a misspelled word if you have it in caps or it is capitalized. Don’t forget to double-check auto-correct issues, especially when sending from your phone.

However, never blame autocorrect for your mistakes as it usually only corrects your words with frequently used ones.



Be funny, not offensive:
Humor is great but not if it alienates customers, vendors, or partners. You can lose lucrative relationships over something as simple as a tweet. You’d be surprised how few second chances are given on social media.


Use sarcasm sparingly and obviously. Are you saying what you mean?

What is your tone conveying?

Is that the only way it could be interpreted?

Sarcasm is very difficult to master in print or on social media. Just look at Jonathan Swift’s A Modest Proposal where he <satirically> suggested eating children in order to solve the problems of famine and poverty in the early 1700s.


Many believed his idea to be a serious proposal. It is much better to use the strong words you mean than to post something in jest. Meaning can be lost in social media unless you accompany it with some emotional clues like emojis.
Check stats and claims. If you’re quoting a source make sure you haven’t transposed numbers or wrongly attributed a claim. Ensure you use a “not” if that’s what you mean.


After all, there’s a big difference between 3 billion and .3 million as well as 83% of adults are on Facebook or 83% of adults aren’t on Facebook. There are also a lot of people on social media who enjoy correcting people.


Check your quote:
Quotes, especially image quotes, receive some of the biggest shares out there. However, before you attribute something to a famous person, check the sources. There are entire books written on this subject and some very famous quotes are often misattributed. For instance, Gandhi never said “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” and George Washington never claimed, “I cannot tell a lie, even on the internet.”


Test the link:
Always check your link by copying it into another tab and double-checking that it works. When you’re copying and pasting, it’s easy to copy and paste the wrong one or leave off the last character so checking is always advisable.


Double check the image:
When you’re using an image from elsewhere, wherever possible give attribution through a tag. Not only is it the polite thing to do, but it can help your business. It will call attention to your post and the original content creator will be made aware of you. They may even share your post. Even if you decide not to tag the original content creator, watch for watermarks. If there is one or you’re reposting something that’s been shared by multiple sharers, go to the original site mentioned in the post before you share it. You don’t want to share content that one of your followers could follow back to the original poster only to find it’s an unsavory group.


Use scheduling software:
If you use scheduling software, you’re not going live immediately. We all know there’s something inexplicable about posting. Your post looks perfect until you hit the post button then magically all of the errors are visible. (At least that’s how it seems.)


If you use a scheduler instead of going live immediately, you’re creating a buffer that will help you see mistakes before they’re in someone’s stream. Many schedulers also have spell-check features.


Use with permission:
If you’re posting to social media, always use attributes for quotes and materials. Give the content creator credit for saying/writing it in the first place. That’s common courtesy.



However, this becomes much more important when your posting is posting to a blog and not merely a quote. If you’re using a cartoon, song lyrics, more than 10% of a printed work, or an image, and you’re publishing it on a business blog, you should seriously consider getting permission from the content owner.


If your usage is for educational purposes, the rights holder may be more lenient. But if you stand to make money off of it, don’t be surprised to receive a cease and desist letter. Grammar rules have become less enforced with social media. Copyright law has not.


Look at the published post:
After you post your item, always double-check it again. Click on the links. Take another look at the spelling and grammar. Some social media platforms (like Facebook) allow you to edit your posts so you could save yourself some issues if you’re the one who catches it.



Finally, if after all of this checking something still escapes your attention and causes someone dismay, remedy the situation quickly:
If it’s grammar thank them for their attention to detail and get it corrected. If it’s a public relations issue, consult the appropriate decision maker about how it should be handled. Remember, doing so quickly is your best course of action.


That’s why so many businesses have a protocol in place on how to handle a social media faux pas. If you don’t, you should consider making those decisions ahead of needing them.


READ MORE:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/10-things-to-check-before-you-post-to.html

Old Students Association of Aquinas College, Akure in Ondo state (ACAOSA) has spent about N100 million on the development of the college, VAM News has gathered.

ACAOSA President Justice Adesuyi-Olagbegi (retd) disclosed this while presenting some sports equipment to the school.

The items were 20 pairs of ruuning vest and pants, 10 pairs of tights, 15 track suits, 15 pairs of soccer boots, 10 pairs of spike shoes and 15 pairs of hose.

Olateru-Olagbegi noted that the philanthropic gesture of the association was borne out of its readiness to sustain and uplift the known standard of the college for qualitative education.

He added that it was obvious that the state government alone was incapable of funding and maintaining the set standard considering the high wage bill of the government.

According to him, the association has built 1,000-seater capacity hall, refurbished the school’s laboratories and renovated some dilapidated buildings of the school.

The president, who stated that the sport equipment cost N500,000, said that the equipment would boost students’ morale to sport activities in the college.

Olateru-Olagbegi, therefore, urged the state government to return the college to its original owner,the Catholic Mission,so that the school would not rest on its oars of success.

He said the association during its visit discovered that the school’s situation was disturbing, troublesome and unacceptable.

The Chairman of ACAOSA Sports Committee, Prof Babatunde Asagba, said Aquinas college had made a unique landmark in sports and academics nationwide.

Asagba frowned at the present state of sports in the college , adding that it should return to the golden years of the past.

He said:
“One of the reasons for this fall is the taking over of the school by the government.

“We know it can be nursed to stardom again and to encourage this comeback to limelight in sports, the ACAOSA has decided to start supplying these sporting equipment for the use of students.

“More shall come as plans are on the way to help surpass previous records of our alma mater,” he said.

The state Commissioner for Education, Femi Agagu who was represented by Mr, Olabanji Ogundele, thanked the association for the intervention, saying the gesture was highly commendable.


Reaction from the school principal'sbelow:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/old-students-donate-n100-million-to.html

The Nigerian youth under the umbrella of Nigerian Youths Corporate Social Responsibility Fund (NYCSRF) have inaugurated a 50-man committee in preparation for the world Anti-Corruption Day in December, VAM News reports.

Director General, NYCSRF Amb. Vincent Anthony Ubani said this was part of preparation for the Peace and Unity Football Cup/Congress which is scheduled to hold on the 12th to 16th December, 2019.

“We are planning to start with this year’s International Anti-corruption Day which is 9th December. We have been joining forces with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in the past years, and this year will not be an exception.

“After the International Anti-corruption Day, we shall kick off with our event starting on the 12th to 16th December.

This is going to bring about 5,700 delegates from all the 36 states and the FCT Abuja.

In a statement made available to VAM News that, “The congress is aimed at fostering peace and unity among the Nigerian youths; and also to discuss and proffer solutions to the numerous challenges facing us in this country, Nigeria,” he said.

Continuing, said: 
           “About 75% of the youths who have graduated cannot find a job. And this is one of the causes of kidnapping, cyber crime, drug abuse, etc. All these are happening because of lack of the support from the government.

“We want the government to know that, investing in Nigerian youths is an investment in our collective future as a nation. So, the government should support us by providing a conducive environment for us to thrive; and also give us the opportunity to contribute in its decision making, especially in politics. The government should create space for us, for we are ready to work. Our future begins today, not tomorrow,” he said.

Chairman of the committee comrade Saleh Sufyan speaking on behalf of members said they would organize the programme without challenge.


Details about the Association and program flier below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/5700-youth-delegates-set-for-peace.html

Everyday we wake up in this country and continue to experience strange things.


This letter trending is a Goodwill message from the National Association of Osun State Students, Osun Joint Campus Committee to the immediate past students Union Government President of Osun State Polytechnic Ire
But it is signed by Comr Agbogunleri Seun Michael Chairman, NANS JCC Osun Axis.


What we are still confused about is how a letter from Osun State Students will be signed by NANS JCC Osun Axis.


Full photos below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/hilarious-birthday-wishes-from-naoss.html

Yahuza Tijjani, a Bayero University student has been remanded in prison custody after being arraigned before magistrate court in Kano state for criticizing a lawmaker Kabiru Is’mail, VAM News reports.

The Kano lawmaker's name was reportedy not mentioned in the Facebook post the second year student of the Department of Science and Technology Education shared.

“You know he’s not well educated, as a result of which he doesn’t know how to calculate figures.

“He said 1230, he later said 1500 and at the ending said 2000.”


VAM recall Tijjani wrote in another post, 

        “I pray to God almighty that the election petition tribunal (will) declare the election of state’s assembly member representing Madobi as inconclusive.”

The lawmaker and Tijjani who spent seven days at the Police ‘Zone 1’ regional headquarters in Kano and the State Criminal Investigation Department before being sent to jail are both from Madobi Local Government Area of Kano state.

More Details below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/varsity-student-tijani-sentences-to.html

President-elect of Argentina, Alberto Fernández has announced his plans to legalise abortion after his swearing-in which is set to hold on Tuesday, 10 December, 2019.

“I would like that the debate is not one between progressives and conservatives, revolutionaries and traditionalists. It’s a problem of public health that we should resolve,” he said.

Asked in an interview with the local Pagina 12 daily, if Argentina could expect to see the proposed legislation’s arrival in Congress before the end of the year. 

Fernández said he intends to do it ‘as soon as possible,’ pointing out timing doesn't depend only on him. Though he did say he is an “advocate for putting an end to the criminalisation of abortion.”

“We should respect the woman who feels she has the right to make decisions, like abortion, about her own body as much as we do the woman who feels God doesn’t permit her to have an abortion,” he said, adding that decriminalising and legalising abortion doesn’t make it obligatory for every woman.

Fernández insists that those who “have the conviction that God doesn’t allow it” won’t seek nor will they be required to seek abortions. “We respect them. And we respect the others.”

“It’s time to stop with this standard bearer of the blue scarf versus the green scarf,” he added.

Reactions below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/argentina-new-president-alberto.html

The Oyo State Government says it is putting in place measures to stop open defecation by providing mobile toilets and water in rural communities in the state.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr Kehinde Ayoola, made this known in Ibadan on Tuesday while addressing newsmen at the commemoration of the 2019 World Toilet Day.

Ayoola said that government was taking proactive steps to stop open defecation in the state through the state’s Rural Water and Sanitation Programme.

He said that the present administration would take seriously the business of recycling in the state, saying that the step would enhance its waste-to-wealth potential.

He appealed to residents of the state to cooperate with government, “as the transition to a new waste management era would result in community-based waste management in the state’’.

“We appeal to our people to please co-operate with Gov. Seyi Makinde-led administration.

“We are transiting into a new waste management era and we would start experiencing community-based waste management system,” Ayoola said.

The commissioner further said that government had mobilised trucks across the state and was gladly helping in clearing refuse and waste till the menace of indiscriminate dumping of refuse would be resolved.

Ayoola said that the state government through the Ministry of Environment had identified prospective transfer loading stations, which would help the waste-to-wealth initiative of the state government.

See People's Reactions below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/world-toilet-day-oyo-govt-moves-to-end.html

The major NANS national presidential candidate in forthcoming 2020 convention and the former NANS Zone D coordinator, Com. Asefon Sunday calls on the men of DSS to obey the rule of law and grant bail to the leader of the Revolution Now in consonance with the court verdict, Com. Omoyele Sowore who is also an erstwhile Union president of Lagos State University, the publisher of Saharareporters and the presidential candidate of AAC during last General Election has not in anyway violate the law of the land that have required his illegal detention since August, 3rd 2019 till this present time.

Comrade Asefon made this statement on Sunday 17th of Nov. 2019 while addressing students in Ekiti State during the celebration of International Students Day and some lingering national issues affecting Nigerians at large.

As fundamental human-rights is rooted in our constitution so as well the principle of Check and Balances, however, no arms of government is superior to the other, we call on the Grand Commander of Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari to please as a matter of urgency save the face of this country from the perversive awkwardness by instructing the men of DSS to grant the release of Sowore.

"The Supremacy and predominate of law is over everybody, both the ruled and the rulers, I implore the men of DSS to safe our face as a nation by obeying the rule of law".

Reactions below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/further-detention-of-sowore-by-dss.html

The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS hopeful president, Comrade Asefon Sunday has commended the management of the Federal University Of Technology, Akure for taken a quick measure of punishment on the gang students involved in bullying of a 100 level female student in one of the off campus hotels on Saturday, November, 16th and also for the urgent medical and counseling support for the affected student.

https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/futa-suspends-students-involved-in.html

Recall a shocking video of four girls and a boy seen surrounding the 100 level student, whose name has been given as Bolu, a 100 Level Ecotourism and Wildlife Management student of the Federal University of Technology, Akure.

"They seem to have cornered her in a room, with the only means of escape blocked by one of the students."

In the statement issued to newsmen by the media aide, Comrade Tunde Bright Olorungbotemi One Class to the NANS leading presidential aspirant, Com. Asefon sunday.

Asefon said, it was "disheartening, highly embarrassing” and disgraceful show of physical and muscular muscle at the varsity that knowledgeable and lenient students were the ones torturing their mate off campus because of an issue with one of those that assaulted her. 

Finally, i charge the management not to take the issue with a levity hands but a thorough sanctions and brought the culprits to face the law, he said.

Watch Video Below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/on-assault-video-nans-hopeful-president.html

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared inconclusive the Kogi West senatorial election on the ground that the lead margin between Mr Smart Adeyemi who polled 80,118 votes and Dino Melaye who got 59,548 is 20,570 which is lower than the 43,127 registered voters in 53 polling units of 20 registration areas in the zone.

The returning officer, Professor Olayinde Lawal who declared the election inconclusive said, he is constrained by law to declare a winner because of the lead margin between the leading candidates.

He added that INEC will announce a new date for the conduct of a supplementary election in the 53 polling units before a winner can be returned.


See Reactions from Kogites Below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/breaking-inec-declares-kogi-election.html

Justice Adesuyi Olateru-Olagbegi, the National President, Aquinas College, Akure Old Students Association, ACAOSA has called on the Ondo State Government to return their alma mater to the Catholic Mission in order to restore the College to its pre- eminent position of academic excellence, sporting acclaim and moral up rightness.

He made the call at the presentation to the College of Sport wears – jerseys, t- shirts, shorts, soccer boots, spike shoes and various Sporting equipments valued at thousands of naira donated to the College by the Old Students Association of the College, VAM News gathered.

Justice Olateru-Olagbegi, at the presentation that was graced by the Principal of the College, Pastor Ayibiowu, Prof. Asagba, several officers and members of ACAOSA, and a large number of students stated that handing the College back to the mission is the surest way to restore it to its reputed preeminent position as a centre of learning for the breeding of future leaders famed for academic excellence, sporting acclaim and integrity.

He, therefore, urged the Ondo State Government to follow the examples of Lagos, Anambra and Ekiti States which have returned Schools in their States to their respective original Mission owners.

The event took place at the Henry Ogiri Hall of the College which was also donated by the Association.

Hon. Justice Olateru-Olagbegi also recounted previous donations of the Association to the College including the construction of the N60 million naira hall, the refurbished Physics, Chemistry and Biology laboratories costing N15 million as well as the refurbishing of several dilapidated classrooms at great expense.

He stated that the Association was motivated in doing these things by a patriotic desire to provide the present generation of students with an enabling environment for learning and scholarship similar to what the old students had in their own days.

He recalled that the College has produced three National Merit Award Winners as well as notable Professionals in all disciplines, stressing that the way forward for the College and other schools in the country was for them to be returned to their original owners, the missions.


See Reactions Below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/justice-olagbegi-tasks-ondo-govt-to.html

The Federal University of Technology Akure ,FUTA has suspended the students involved in the bullying  of a female student  in one of the off campus hostels on Saturday November 16,2019 even as it continues with investigations into the circumstances that led to the odious and unfortunate act, VAM News has gathered.

The University deplores such behavior and reiterates that all those found to be culpable will be visited with the full weight of the law under the extant rules and regulations governing Students behavior and conduct off and on the campus at the conclusion of investigation being carried out by the Students Affairs Division.

The University Management is providing medical and counseling support for the affected student.

The University reiterates its abhorrence of any action or behavior by students  that are inimical to the well-being of others and will continue to sanction students who run foul of its rules and regulations.

In a statement signed by Adegbenro Adebanjo, Deputy Director Corporate Communications FUTA says for the avoidance of doubt only students who are worthy in learning and character can lay claim to and be addressed as FUTA students.

Soure: watch the video below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/futa-suspends-students-involved-in.html

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle upon you. Isaiah 43:2




We will all go through trying situations in life, some more difficult than others. 



Many times, we think the phrase “I’m going through something” is bad news, but if we view it properly, we realize going through is good; it means we are not stuck! We may be facing difficulties, but we can be thankful that at least we are moving forward. 



We will face a variety of things, but those things we go through are the very circumstances, challenges, and situations that make us people who know how to overcome adversity. 



We do not grow or become strong during life’s good times; we grow when we press through difficulties without giving up. 

•Share your story, adverts, campaign, brand, model with us : SMS/Whatsapp : +2348072633727, Email : voiceairmedia@gmail.com


When we do what we know is right even when it is difficult, uncomfortable, or inconvenient, we grow spiritually and we are strengthened.


READ MORE:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/going-through-is-better-than-getting.html

The outbreaks of monkeypox, yellow fever, Lassa fever and cholera among others in Nigeria highlight the failure of all tiers of government to provide effective disease surveillance, prevention, control and response strategies, VAM News received.


Despite Nigeria’s reliability in times past to provide laboratory diagnostic services in support of disease surveillance activities, only a few laboratories are capable of reliable diagnosis today.
Some samples are sent outside the country for laboratory confirmation.


Outbreaks of different diseases are now common in the country.
Sadly, some Nigerians have died owing to the situation, while more would still suffer the same fate if nothing cogent is done.


Simple vaccination and an effective disease control system would have saved Nigerians from the needless deaths associated with the diseases.


According to epidemiologists, although, there is little improvement in disease surveillance, poor laboratory services and lack of commitment to health budget among others make early detection, prevention, treatment, and control impossible.


Burden
According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC report from 23 states, a total of 4,209 suspected Lassa fever cases were recorded in the first 42 weeks of this year.

Sadly, only 739 (17.6 percent) of these cases were confirmed by the laboratory.



In the same period, the number of suspected Lassa fever cases reported by 22 states was put at 2,761, only 539 (19. 5 percent) had laboratory confirmation.
Also, the World Health Organisation, WHO, in its epidemiological summary for Nigeria from January 1 to August 31, 2019, excluding the cases in Bauchi, revealed that a total of 2,254 suspected yellow fever cases have been reported in 535 Local Government Areas, LGAs.


All the 36 states including Federal Capital Territory (FCT) reported at least one suspected case of yellow fever.


The report said a total of 103 (74 presumptive positive and 29 inconclusive) samples were sent to yellow fever reference laboratory Institute Pasteur in Dakar (IPD) for confirmatory testing, of which 29 tested positive.


Suspected cases:
However, between August and November 2019, Nigeria has experienced an upsurge in cases of yellow fever with 511 suspected cases in three states.
The breakdown shows that 309 were recorded in Katsina, 162 in Bauchi, and 40 incidents were observed in Benue.


According to the latest NCDC report, of the samples tested from these cases, 83 were confirmed positive in Katsina, 43 in Bauchi and 6 in Benue.


This year, Katsina State has recorded 599 suspected cases, 43 confirmed cases and 77 deaths among suspected cases.


Also, Bauchi State has recorded 183 suspected cases, 34 confirmed cases and 24 deaths among suspected cases.
For monkeypox, as of September 9, 2019, NCDC said Nigeria continues to report sporadic cases of monkeypox after the index case was reported in September 2017.


A total of 81 suspected cases have been reported so far in 2019 of which 39 confirmed cases were recorded in nine states. In some states like Lagos, there is growing concern about the recent increase in the rate of gastroenteritis.
However, findings by Sunday Vanguard showed that several factors made it difficult to contain these diseases, especially Nigeria’s inability to produce vaccines locally.


The reliance on importation remains the bane of effective containment of the outbreak of hemorrhagic fevers in particular.


Currently, majority of the samples for some of the diseases are still being sent outside the country for confirmation due to lack of a national laboratory.


Outbreaks persist
Public health experts also said there is no gainsaying the fact that the failure to contain diseases like Lassa fever and the resurgence of Yellow fever can be traced to a weak system, dependent on foreign aid for surveillance needs, and low budgeting at all levels of government.
Latching on yellow fever resurgence, they lamented that Nigeria’s medical laboratory scientists were producing yellow fever vaccines in the past.


The experts added that the scientists were doing that to the point that WHO contracted Nigeria to produce yellow fever vaccines that were used to contain the yellow fever outbreak in some parts of the West African sub-region.


What really went wrong is the question on most lips.

Right now, Nigeria no longer has the in-country capacity for this vaccine production.


It is also common knowledge that all levels of government in Nigeria for many years have neglected and underfunded the health sector.
In a study published on www.preventepidemics.org, it was discovered that Nigeria is only 39 percent prepared for disease outbreaks.


National legislation
The study also showed that Nigeria recorded just 20 percent on national legislation, policy, and financing of disease outbreaks.
It further showed that on preparedness, Nigeria ranked 20 percent for emergency response operation.


Overall, the country ranked 31 percent on ‘Stop Outbreaks’, 37 percent on ‘Protect from Other Health Threats’, 39 percent on ‘Prevent Outbreaks’, and 51 percent on ‘Find and Verify Outbreaks’


In a chat with Sunday Vanguard, a renowned Virologist, Professor Oyewale Tomori, who lamented the absence of a national functional laboratory said the national laboratory systems in Nigeria only satisfy 40 percent of the requirements for epidemic prevention and control.


According to him, in times past, Nigeria provided reliable laboratory diagnostic services in support of disease surveillance activities.


He, however, regretted that there are only a few laboratories capable of reliable diagnosis in the country.


Tomori said on yellow fever, Nigeria had to ship samples outside the country to get laboratory confirmation, adding that less than 20 percent of suspected Lassa fever cases are confirmed by Nigerian laboratory.
He explained that the situation means that Nigeria does not have the diagnosis for 80 percent of the suspected Lassa fever cases reported.


Noting that it was difficult for the country to coordinate assistance programmes that are funded and run by international organizations, he said Nigeria failed to sustain the structures and facilities that were used to control Ebola in 2014.


The renowned Virologist, who noted that although the country’s surveillance system continues to report suspected cases for other diseases, including yellow fever, monkeypox, cholera, measles, there is a need for urgent improvement on awareness, reporting, investigation and laboratory confirmation.
“Certainly, our disease surveillance is in much better shape than it was when we had an Ebola outbreak in 2014.


However, there is still plenty of room for improvement, especially at state and LGA, levels,” he added.


Healthcare funding
Tomori, who carpeted state governments for relying on the federal government said: “Most of the states have abandoned their responsibility and dumped everything on the federal government. This must stop.


“In some states, epidemiology divisions charged with disease surveillance have not got the transport facilities required by staff to carry out investigations. In some cases, not one kobo is budgeted or allocated for disease surveillance activities. Many have no laboratory facilities. This is unacceptable.

“On disease surveillance, states must not eat their cake and have it. They are loud in pointing out that health is a concurrent matter, but when it is time to act, they leave the responsibility for the federal government,” he stated.


Preparedness
Rating Nigeria on preparedness and response system, Tomori who referred Sunday Vanguard to a quote extracted from a publication titled: Lassa Fever: Why Nigerian Government Should Fund Disease Diagnostics For Epidemic Preparedness, authored by Chidindu Mmadu-Okoli in the July 25, 2019, edition of the Nigeria Health Watch said: “The resurgence of Lassa virus offers insights not only into Nigeria’s cultural and political health but the state of her health security, particularly, as it concerns epidemic preparedness.

With a low epidemic preparedness level of 39 percent, limited availability of evidence-based medical care, delayed diagnosis and outbreak response, the national laboratory systems in Nigeria only satisfy 40 percent of the requirements for epidemic prevention and control.


Stemming outbreak
Tomori explained that disease surveillance and early detection are the recipes for nipping epidemics in the bud.
He said: “We must create the enabling environment for rapid investigation of reported and suspected disease outbreaks.


Our laboratories must be provided with adequate resources – reagents, appropriate equipment, and other facilities. Also, we must improve our public awareness of these diseases, emphasizing preventive and control measures to detect, rapidly and efficiently control or respond to outbreaks.

For a renowned medical laboratory scientist, Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, it is shameful that Nigeria still sends samples abroad for confirmation.
Ifeanyi, who is the National Publicity Secretary, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, AMSLN, said unless Nigeria revamps its medical laboratory sector by building in-country capacity for local production of vaccines, the country would continue to lag in health indices.


CONTINUEREADING BELOW:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/the-return-of-lassa-fever-yellow-fever.html

Commercial activities and vehicular movement were Friday evening paralysed along oba adesida road , Akure as market women barricaded the road for hours.

Roving Reporters reports that the irate market women were protesting plans by the state government to block all road median around oja oba.

The women in their hundreds sat on the main road in front of Erekesan market making it difficult for motorists to pass.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, the women lamented plans by the government to block the routes of crossing the road claiming it would have adverse effect on their business.

According to them, many of the market women are very old and will find it difficult climbing the pedestrian bridge at Oja oba

They then called on governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to direct govt officials to stop blocking the median in consideration of those with health challenge.

Photos of the protest below:
https://www.voiceairmedia.com/2019/11/market-women-block-major-roads-in.html