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World Nutrition Day: Gov. AbdulRazaq campaigns for healthy eating

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara has advised people in Kwara to eat nutritious foods for healthy living.

AbdulRazaq made the call on Wednesday while speaking at the Official Launching of “Eat The Rainbow” campaign in Ilorin.

The governor who was represented by the Kwara Commissioner for Finance, Dr Hauwa Nuru, stated that the World Nutrition Day serves as a global reminder of the vital role that nutrition plays in overall health and well-being.

The governor emphasize the importance of balanced diets, and the need to tackle malnutrition in all its forms.

He pointed out that “eating a rainbow”, denotes eating foods, fruits and vegetables of different colours in every meal.

AbdulRazaq explained further that it is an evidence based approach to how we nourish our body.

He reiterated the resolve of the state government in prioritizing the health of the citizens through promotion of nutrition, and creating a well informed healthy citizens.

Earlier in her welcome address, Dr Amina El-Imam, the Kwara Commissioner for Health explained that the innovative nutrition campaign is aimed at improving food diversity.

She added that the campaign also aims at promoting good and balanced nutrition across communities in Kwara.

“Good nutrition is the cornerstone of health and well-being. It is the foundation upon which children grow, adults thrive, and the elderly live with dignity and strength,” she said.

El-Imam observed that the recently released National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) report of 2023 to 2024 shows that the nutritional status of children under five years needs more attention throughout Nigeria.

According to her, in Kwara, the proportion of children who are underweight stands at 24.5 percent, well below the national average.

The commissioner pointed out that between 2013 and 2019, UNICEF exited Kwara due to discontinued counterpart funding.

She described the period as a difficult time for children related issues, adding that the proportion of children suffering from wasting or who have low weights for their heights rose from 6.5 percent in 2013 to 7.3 percent in 2018.

The commissioner explained that presently the figure is down to 6.1 percent of under-five children in Kwara state.

“This means that an estimated 50,744 children need immediate support from wasting, while the national figure is 8.0 percent.

“Even with relatively better indices than the national average, we are still on course to further lower the figure,” she said.

El-Imam added that to tackle wasting and other severe forms of malnutrition among children, the Ministry of Health has taken delivery of 3,964 cartons of ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF).

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UNICEF, Kwara deploy 3,964 therapeutic food to tackle child malnutrition

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

In a major step to combat child malnutrition, the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF and the Kwara State Government have delivered 3,964 cartons of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) to support the treatment of severe acute malnutrition across the state.

The UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, Mrs Christian Munduate stated this on Tuesday in Ilorin while speaking at the Handing Over Ceremony of the Ready-to-use RUTF.

She explained that UNICEF and Kwara Government partnered to deploy 3,964 cartons of the RUTF to combat child malnutrition in the state.

“The initiative funded through the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF), indicates the commitment of both partners to improving child health and addressing severe acute malnutrition among children in the state,” she said.

According to her, the challenge of over 40 percent of children being stunted and nearly 300,000 children affected by wasting, requires urgent action to address these issues.

Munduate explained that UNICEF and Kwara is partnering to combat malnutrition, particularly during the critical first 1,000 days of life.

She observed that the current management of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in Kwara is limited to a few health facilities and needs to be expanded to more facilities to reach more children.

She disclosed that the Kwara Government’s contribution of $100,000, matched by UNICEF to procure the RUTF for treatment, is a major strike and highly commendable.

“This initiative is lifesaving for children suffering from severe acute malnutrition and wasting,” she said.

Earlier in her welcoming address, Dr Mary Arinde, the Kwara Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development emphasized the importance of good nutrition for the mental and physical development of children.

According to her, RUTF is a condiment developed to help malnourished children overcome their nutritional inadequacies and be able to grow well like their contemporaries.

“It is not just a life-saver but also a destiny-saver for malnourished children as it gives them a second chance to live quality lives,” she said.

Also speaking, the Kwara Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El-Imam reiterated the resolve of the state government to stamp-out malnutrition Among children.

She explained that the state had earlier carried out health and nutrition intervention including deworming of 700,000 children, administering of Vitamin A, Zinc and ORS among others.

El-Imam pledged the distribution of the essential life saving commodities to the various Primary Healthcare facilities across yhe 16GAs.

To date, 11 Nigerian states—Jigawa, Katsina, Adamawa, Kano, Ebonyi, Borno, Gombe, Kaduna, Kwara, Niger, and Plateau—have contributed to the CNF. UNICEF continues to engage remaining states to formalize commitments and encourage sustained investment, ensuring more funding for nutrition and more nutrition for available funds.

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Kwara sensitizes medical doctors on severe malaria management

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Kwara Government has organized a two-day intensive workshop for medical doctors across state health facilities, focusing on the management of severe malaria.

Speaking at the workshop, the Director of Public Health, Kwara Ministry of Health, Dr. Oluwatosin Fakayode, explained that the workshop is part of the strategic move to eliminate malaria and improve healthcare delivery in the state.

He pointed out that the training aims to boost the clinical skills of frontline healthcare professionals in the fight against severe malaria.

The theme of the workshop is entitled: “Strengthening Clinical Capacity for Early Detection, Effective Management, and Reduction of Mortality from Severe Malaria”.

Fakayode emphasized the urgency of early diagnosis and prompt treatment of severe malaria, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children under five and pregnant women.

“This initiative forms part of the broader state malaria control efforts, including preparations for the 2025 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) campaign.

“The SMC program will see the house-to-house distribution of preventive antimalarial medication to children aged three to 59 months across 11 eligible local government areas in Kwara,” he said.

According to him, severe malaria remains a major public health threat in Nigeria.

He commended Gov AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the unwavering commitment to malaria elimination and his continuous investment in strengthening clinical capacity across all levels of care.

In her remarks, the Programme Manager of the Malaria Unit, Alhaja Latifat Abdullahi, expressed deep appreciation to the participating medical doctors for their dedication to the cause, despite their demanding schedules.

She emphasized the importance of continuous professional development in achieving better healthcare outcomes and urged the doctors to put their newly acquired skills into practice.

Also speaking, Dr. Oladapo Kazeem, Head of Malaria Case Management, stated that Nigeria contributes approximately 24 percent of global malaria deaths.

He stressed that Kwara has seen a significant reduction in malaria prevalence among children under five—from 26 percent in 2015 to six percent in 2021.

Kazrem credited the achievement to the state’s investment in robust health interventions, increased access to Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs), and strengthened health systems.

“By equipping doctors with enhanced clinical competencies, the Kwara State Government reinforces its commitment to reducing mortality from severe malaria and achieving a malaria-free state,” he said.

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ARD-KWASUTH applauds AbdulRazaq over payment of MRTF, CONMESS

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The Association of Resident Doctors, Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (ARD-KWASUTH) has commended Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara on the payment of 2024 Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) with two months arrears.

The President of ARD-KWASUTH, Dr Abdulfatai Abdulazeez, made the commendation on behalf of the Association on Sunday in Ilorin

He disclosed that the government has also commenced the payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) allowance.

Abdulazeez observed that the prompt payment of MRTF to the doctors marks a significant milestone.

According to him, this also demonstrates the administration’s dedication to investing in the next generation of medical professionals.

He observed that the present administration has shown commitment in prioritizing the health and wellbeing of Kwarans.

“Your exemplary commitment to residency training has paved the way for a brighter future for healthcare in Kwara,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to the present administration while describing the gesture as a “historic milestone achieved”.

The president of the ARD-KWASUTH also commended the governor for prioritizing the health and wellbeing of people in Kwara

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World Immunization Week: Kwara targets 1.2 million children

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Kwara Government says it is targeting about 1.2 million children for vaccination as the World Immunization Week commences.

The theme for the 2025 World Immunization Week is entitled: “Immunization for All is Humanly Possible”.

Speaking to newsmen on Friday in Ilorin, Prof. Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency explained that the Week is commemorated to celebrate the wins of vaccination.

According to her, immunization is one of the most effective public health intervention.

She added that it is also a fundamental right, a shared responsibility and an important investment in our future.

“Vaccines have saved over150 million lives over the past 50 years of Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), reducing infant mortality by 40 percent and protecting people from more than 30 deadly diseases,” she said.

The Executive Secretary stressed that the theme emphasizes the importance of ensuring everyone, regardless of age or location, has access to life-saving vaccines.

“The Week is aimed at ensuring that there are sustained global efforts to reach every child and adult with vaccines.

“This includes strengthening national immunization programs, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and ensuring equitable access to vaccines, especially for vulnerable populations,” she said.

Elelu pointed out that we can make a difference by advocating for stronger immunization programs, supporting community-based immunization initiatives, and ensuring that everyone has access to the life-saving power of vaccines.

She enjoined mothers and caregivers, to ensure that their children get the life-saving vaccines to protect vulnerable children against diseases.

Also speaking, Dr Michael Oguntoye, the Director Primary Healthcare System of the Agency stated that about 1.2 million children, between the ages of zero to five years would be captured during the week.

He added that the immunization will ensure that children that were missed previously can still get immunized to prevent them from any diseases.

“This is to create awareness for people to demand for immunization services,” he said.

Oguntoye also assured that the immunization will also cover communities that are flashpoint of insecurity.

He explained that the state government has deployed security agents, as well as local vigilante groups to support all activities of the health intervention.

According to him, this will ensure children in those communities are not left behind and their health are protected.

The Agency commemorated the week with Sensitization Walk across Ilorin metropolis to create awareness of week.

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Health insurance: Kwara to enrol 14,000 people with Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDs – official

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Kwara State Health Insurance Agency (KWHIA) will commence the enrollment of people with Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDs in the health insurance scheme by June 12.

Dr Olubunmi Jetawo-Winter, the Executive Secretary of the Agency stated this on Wednesday in Ilorin during a meeting with stakeholders on implementation of the initiative in Kwara.

She explained that the scheme will enrol everybody living with tuberculosis and HIV/AIDs across the 16 Local Government Area of the state.

According to her, the population of the state that are being covered by Global Funds are vulnerable people who have access to the management of their disease state.

Jetawo-Winter pointed out that these vulnerable groups however, do not have access to other sources to cater for other ailments outside thier conditions.

She stated that these groups are considered vulnerable as they have low immunity and prone to having many illnesses.

“They don’t have the luxury of building immunity like so many other people due to the kind of medication that they are already taking.

“Therefore they really need health intervention for them to be able to manage their diseases in a holistic way,” she said.

The executive secretary added that people with HIV/AIDs, and tuberculosis who have malaria, infections, surgery or gets pregnant will now have the unfettered access to health care services that can support other health issues.

She noted that the health insurance cover is renewable at the end of one year when it expires, and that provision will be made for renewal.

Jetawo-Winter appealed to these vulnerable groups to access the facilities they receive thier HIV/AIDs and Tuberculosis drugs intervention and get registered for the scheme.

Also speaking, Mr Seun Ogunniyi, a member, House Committee on Health and Environment, commended the Agency’s efforts and commitment in ensuring the health of the citizenry.

He enjoin the Agency on proper orientation and implementation of the scheme across all the LGAs.

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NGO appeals to Kwara Govt. for expanded access to UCH

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Universal Health Coverage for Women in Global Health, Nigeria (WGH), has appealed to the Kwara State Government to enhance access to the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme.

This appeal aims to ensure that all citizens, especially women, have access to essential healthcare services.

The call was made by the Project Officer, Dr Sienne Orogun, during a conference titled “Using Local Strategies and Structures to Boost Universal Health Coverage,” held on Tuesday in Ilorin.

Orogun highlighted that policies were already in place to make health insurance more affordable for vulnerable groups.

She urged the government to take further steps to implement these policies effectively and ensure basic healthcare was accessible to everyone.

Orogun expressed confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to achieving UHC, a goal aimed at ensuring all citizens could access quality healthcare without experiencing financial hardship.

In her keynote address, Kwara’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El-Imam, emphasised the importance of simplifying the registration process to boost enrolment numbers.

She noted that the state government was making significant progress towards allocating 15 per cent of its budget to the health sector, as well as focusing on capacity building and the retention of skilled healthcare professionals.

El-Imam assured the audience that Kwara was on track to achieving UHC, with local strategies already yielding positive outcomes.

She reiterated that UHC was a key strategy to strengthen the healthcare system and promote sustainable development, with the state adopting homegrown solutions to address specific challenges in the healthcare sector.

While acknowledging the progress made, she also highlighted challenges such as funding constraints and shortages of healthcare workers.

She urged continued collaboration and innovation to overcome these obstacles and ensure equitable healthcare access for all.

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Neurological disorder: Paediatric Neurologist urges FG to include ADHD in NHIS

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Dr. Oluwasola Oke, a Consultant Paediatric-Neurologist at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile Ife, has called for the inclusion of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) into National Healthcare Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Oke told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview on Tuesday in Ilorin that the cost of managing the condition is astronomical.

According to him, a sachet of 10 tablets costs N50,000 and almost unaccessible for the ordinary Nigerians.

He added that apart from the high cost of management, the drug is also scarce and can only be found in places such as Lagos or outside the country.

Oke explained that government can subsidize these drugs for the citizens through the NHIS.

He described ADHD as one of the commonest neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention among children.

“These inattention includes having short attention span, difficulty keeping on task or staying organized, hyperactivity, restless, or talking excessively.

According to him, Nigeria carries the burden of ADHD in children at about 4.6 to 8.7 percent and Africa is at 5.4 to 8.7 percent, while globally it is at 5 to 10 percent.

The expert who also teaches at the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, of OAU pointed out that many people still misunderstand ADHD and assume the affected children are mentally unstable, stubborn or difficult.

“ADHD behaviours frequently occur across multiple situations such as school, home and at work,” he said.

The Neurologist pointed out that people should desist from labelling children with ADHD as stubborn, spoilt, difficult or abnormal.

The expert further said some people erroneously believe the children lack home training or are spiritually attacked, adding that the condition is not a curse or spiritual punishment.

Oke warns that “beating such a child or taking them for endless deliverance will not cast it out. Instead of blaming spirits, the affected child needs to see a specialist”.

Similarly he added that children with ADHD need the right learning method, supportive environment and patience, while saying that some of them can be intelligent and excel in music, art or mathematics.

The Paediatric Neurologist appealed to government and caregivers to address challenges in procuring drugs and management of children with ADHD.

He also warned against stigmatizing the children and enjoined people to bring their ward to specialists who can manage the condition through Behavioural therapy and use of drugs.

Oke therefore appealed to people to show love and understanding to these children, who can be managed to be productive in life.

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Kwara commences Round 3 Big Catch-up vaccination – Official

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Kwara Government will on April 12th commence Round-three Big Catch Up (BCU) vaccination for children between the ages of two years and five years.

Prof. Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency stated this on Friday in Ilorin while speaking at a One-day Stakeholders Engagement Meeting. 

Elelu who was represented at the programme by the Director Community Health Services, Mrs Rukayat Ayodeji stated that the BCU campaign was designed to bridge the gap in immunization coverage and will round up till 17th of April.

According to her, this is particularly for zero dose children and those that are non- compliant people, whose children may have missed their scheduled vaccinations. 

Elelu added that the programme aims to strengthen Routine Immunization (RI) which protects children from vaccine preventable diseases, save lives and help to ensure that all eligible children are fully immunized.

She explained further that the BCU vaccination campaign will take place in three low performing immunization LGAs such as Ifelodun, Baruten and Ilorin East.

Also speaking, Dr Dupe Shittu, the State Mobilization Officer of the Agency disclosed that the National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDS) for the ages zero to five years, will commence by April 26th to 29th.

According to her, the NIPDS are designated to vaccinate children and protect them from the poliomyelitis.

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Shittu pointed out that this will increase the immunity of children from polio which causes paralysis.

She added that health workers and volunteers will be available in a house to house campaign, religious houses and Schools, among others to administer two drops into the mouth of eligible children.

Also speaking, Mr Isiaka Jimoh, the UNICEF Consultant for Big Catch Up, enjoined all stakeholders to take ownership of the programme and enlightened people on the importance of vaccination.

He called for the need to support long-term immunization programs that continually “catch up” and reach under-immunized (UI) children.

Jimoh noted that this will contribute to more robust and sustainable public health outcomes in Kwara.

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World Health Day: UITH-experts call for increased support for maternal, newborn health

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By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Head of Department of Epidemiology and Community Health of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Prof Shola Abduraheem has called for increased support for maternal and newborn health in Nigeria.

AbdulRaheem made the call on Monday in Ilorin while speaking at the commemoration of the 2025 World Heath Day themed: “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,”.

The theme focuses on maternal and newborn health, in order to prevent deaths and prioritise women’s health.

He explained that the theme is apt and significant as it emphasizes the importance of taking care of mothers and newborn children for a healthy nation.

“The day is significant in the sense that we need to appreciate what women do and the roles they contribute in making healthy family,” he said.

He advised the nation on the need to take care of mothers and newborn as much as possible, saying that there is need to improve the health indices of mother and child in Nigeria.

Also speaking, Prof Hadijat Raji, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) said when women are supported, they deliver healthy babies.

“This ensures that the baby reaches its full potential. It is important that the woman is healthy before embarking on pregnancy, this increases higher chances of healthy pregnancy and the survival of the new born,” she said.

In her presentation, Dr Bilqis Alatishe-Muhammad, Hospital Consultant, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health of UITH observed that factors that increase maternal deaths includes anemia, lack of healthcare facilities, and transportation.

Her presentation was entitled: “Unveiling the Patterns: A Deep Dive into Maternal and Child Health Dynamics in Kwara”.

Alatishe-Muhammad also She listed other factors to include, post partum haemorrhage, hypertension and lack of skilled personnel among others.

She therefore called on the government to improve funding on maternal and child health care and also ensure access to healthcare for women.

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