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Environment Minister Urges Nigerians to Continue the Culture of Handwashing
Environment Minister Urges Nigerians to Continue the Culture of Handwashing
By: Michael Mike
The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako has advised Nigerians to continue to embrace the culture of hand washing, noting that washing of hands with soap under running water chases many diseases faraway.
The Minister gave the advised on Monday at the Federal Government Boys College, Wuye – Abuja during the commemoration of this year’s Global Hand Washing Day with theme, “Clean hands are within reach.”
The Minister said: “Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, it may interest you to know that a simple act of washing hands with soap under running water can reduce infection by 50% and respiratory disease by 25%. Research has shown that creating awareness on proper handwashing helps communities to stay healthy by reducing the number of people who get sick with diarrhoea by 23-40%, reducing diarrhoea illness in people with weakened immune systems by 58%, reducing respiratory illnesses, like colds, in the general population by 16-21% and also reduces absenteeism due to gastrointestinal illness in school children by 29-57%.”
He added that: “Handwashing with soap under running water is the most cost-effective health intervention compared with others such as immunization and responding to disease outbreaks. Hands often act as agents that carry disease-causing pathogens from person to person, either through direct contact or indirectly via surfaces, hence hand hygiene is regarded as one of the most important elements of infection control activities and alone can significantly reduce the risk of cross-transmission of infection in healthcare facilities.
“Research has shown that handwashing helps in battling the rise of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Resistance to antibiotics is one of the greatest threats to global health, food security and development. Increasing numbers of serious infections are becoming more difficult to treat because of the loss of efficacy of antibiotics which are often misused and abused; hence it is very important that we reduce the number of these infections by washing hands frequently.”
Earlier, Mrs. Motunrayo Mgbakogu of Well-being Foundation Africa, speaking on behalf of the president of the NGO, Mrs. Toyin Ojora Saraki said: “Today, on the occasion of the significant Global Handwashing Day, we are reminded of the remarkable impact that a seemingly simple act like proper handwashing technique can have on public health and overall wellbeing.”
She disclosed that: “In collaboration with the Dettol Nigeria Hygiene Quest programme, we have extended our reach and work towards achieving SDG3, SDG6 and SDG17, positively influencing the lives of 3,966 students, engaging with 2,587 individuals within communities, and equipping 9,974 mothers in healthcare facilities with indispensable knowledge concerning proper handwashing techniques. It is noteworthy that these figures pertain to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) alone. These achievements symbolise not just transformed lives but also strengthened communities, and they illuminate the path toward a more sustainable future.”
She advised that: “Let us collectively use this day as a powerful and poignant reminder of the pivotal role that proper hand hygiene plays in averting the proliferation of infections and in safeguarding the health and welfare of our communities. It is our firm resolve to persist in advocating for resolute policies and mobilising resources with the unwavering objective of ensuring that no individual is left marginalised or underserved.”
She said: “We extend our gratitude to all of you for your steadfast commitment and determination in shaping a future where every individual has the privilege of enjoying the fundamental human rights to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene. Your unwavering dedication is truly commendable and offers a beacon of hope for a more equitable and healthier, #CleanNaija.”
Environment Minister Urges Nigerians to Continue the Culture of Handwashing
News
Boko Haram: Zulum Donates N30m for Purchase of House to Family of Slain Army Officer
Boko Haram: Zulum Donates N30m for Purchase of House to Family of Slain Army Officer
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has donated N30 million cash to the family of the late Army Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Alari, who recently lost his life in the ongoing battle against Boko Haram insurgents in the Timbuktu Triangle.
The donation, which was made personally to the wife of the late officer by the Governor on Saturday in Maiduguri, is to enable the family buy a house
The governor while extending his condolences to the family of the late soldier and all others who lost their lives fighting to restore peace in Borno State, said: “Yesterday, we sent a high-level state government delegation to the funeral. However, I felt the need to personally extend my condolences on behalf of the government and people of the state.”
He added: “Let me also extend my condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives in the cause of the fight against terrorism in Borno and all parts of the northeast.”
“We are also presenting a token donation of N30m for his immediate family to purchase a house because I was told that Lt Col Alari doesn’t own a personal house. I want to assure you that apart from this, we will continue to offer support to you and the families of our fallen heroes who have put their lives in defence of our country.” Zulum stated.
The presentation was made in the presence of the Theatre Commander Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, Sector 2 Commander, and Major General Chieiebere Ejike. Also present are Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan and House of Representatives members Engr Bukar Talba and Ahmed Jaha.
Other State Government officials who attended the presentation include the Deputy Chief of Staff, Engr. Babagana Malumbe; Commissioners; Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mustapha Ali Busuguma; Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Brigadier Gen. Abdullahi Ishaq (Rtd); and Chairman of Damboa Local Government, Ali Kauji among other senior officers.
Boko Haram: Zulum Donates N30m for Purchase of House to Family of Slain Army Officer
News
Buni elected chairman of the Lake Chad governor’s forum.
Buni elected chairman of the Lake Chad governor’s forum.
By: Yahaya Wakili
The Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, was elected as chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Governor’s Forum to run the affairs for two years.
The election of Governor Buni comes shortly after the end of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governor’s Forum meeting held at Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Mai Mala Buni CON commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for providing leadership to the country and region at a very difficult time.
The 5th Lake Chad Basin Governor’s Forum meeting was hosted by the Yobe state government and was declared open by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima GCON.
“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his leadership and commitment to peace, security, and development of the Lake Chad Basin region, Governor Buni said.
He appreciated his colleagues, the governors of the Lake Chad Basin region, delegates, and all other stakeholders for attending and contributing to the success of the meeting.
“Therefore, we look forward to a more robust partnership, support, and the needed resource allocation for us to individually and collectively actualize our shared ambition of building a better and prosperous region for our citizens.
“I wish to, on behalf of myself, the government, and the people of Yobe State, commend and appreciate the decision of my colleagues for endorsing me as the new chairman of the forum.
According to Buni, it is gratifying that as we celebrate the successful end of this meeting, my colleagues have found me worthy of chairing the forum for the next two years.
Buni elected chairman of the Lake Chad governor’s forum.
News
Mustapha Rufau Appointed as Kangiwa of Adamawa Emirate
Mustapha Rufau Appointed as Kangiwa of Adamawa Emirate
By: Michael Mike
In a significant development for the Adamawa Emirate, Mustapha Rufau, a distinguished businessman from a prestigious family, has been appointed as the Kangiwa of the Adamawa Emirate.
The appointment underscores his exemplary contributions to business, leadership, and community development.
Mustapha Rufau is renowned for his sharp business acumen and success in diverse ventures, which have cemented his reputation as an astute entrepreneur.
His visionary leadership and commitment to societal growth have earned him admiration both in the corporate world and among community stakeholders.
The title of Kangiwa is one of great honor and responsibility, symbolizing leadership, trust, and service to the emirate. With his deep-rooted values and dedication to progress, Mustapha Rufau is expected to play a pivotal role in preserving the emirate’s cultural heritage while driving unity and development across the region.
This appointment also reflects the enduring influence of the Rufau family, known for their legacy of service and excellence.
As Kangiwa, Mustapha Rufau’s leadership is anticipated to leave a lasting impact on the Adamawa Emirate and beyond.
Mustapha Rufau Appointed as Kangiwa of Adamawa Emirate
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