Crunch Times News

By Otobong-Gabriel 

The Guild of Optometric has urged the Federal Government to grant special waivers to local manufacturers and importers of eye care resources.

According to the Guild, the special waivers will help reduce the cost of eye care resources, making them more affordable and accessible to Nigerians.

The President, Dr Adesuwa Agbontaen, FNCO, FNOA and Secretary, Dr. Chigozirim Nwosu, FNOA of the Guild, disclosed this in a communique Signed and issued to newsmen  at the 3rd annual national conference and business expo of the Guild of Optometric Directors of Nigeria, (GOODON) With the theme, “the Business of Eye Care Today: Maximizing Efficiency and Profitabilty, stressed that the waivers will also encourage local production of eye care resources.

The Guild believes that providing special waivers will help reduce the cost of eye care resources, making them more affordable and accessible to the general public.

Agbontaen said the theme, “the Business of Eye Care Today: Maximizing Efficiency and Profitabilty”, reflects our drive towards continuously improving high standards in quality service delivery while also ensuring that our services will be there for the long haul. 

President of the Guild of Optometric urged the government to consider their request for special waivers, saying by doing so, they can ensure that eye care resources are available to those who need them most.

According to him, government and its agencies must, as a matter of emergency, ensure that eye care resources are given special waivers both for local manufacturers and imported ones, in order to help make them readily available for the uses of consumers of eye care in Nigeria.

"All government agencies and parastatals must explore the hands of partnership being extended to them by GOODON, in order to help drive eye care service efficiency to all the reaches of the country urging all eye care providers in Nigeria to must at all time abide by the regulations of the relevant government agencies, and must show distinction in both product and services, in order to maintain efficiency towards service delivery to Nigerians".

The GOODON therefore urged its members to must ensure that they acquaint themselves with the latest advances in eye care service delivery, and publicly display their GOODON emblem at strategic locations within their practice locations, in order to help guide the public in seeking services from qualified and competent personnel, helping them avoid falling prey to quacks and avoidable blindness.

"GOODON shall continue to be focused on promoting quality eye care delivery, and shall support all well-thought-out plans and projects of government and other stakeholders geared towards delivery quality, efficient and accessible eye care services to Nigerians".

The Guild resolved that it has become imperative for all stakeholders to bring their best foot forward in helping private eye care providers stay efficient and sustainable.

He informed that the Guild of Optometric Directors of Nigeria (GOODON) is the national association representing directors of private optometric clinics across Nigeria who, by virtue of their key position in the Nigerian eye care ecosystem, strive to advance standards of eye care service delivery through active support for improvement in regulations and standards, professional and business development and sustainability, and charting new paths for further public eye health care development.

"We, the members of the Guild converged, from all across Nigeria, in Abuja for our 3rd Annual National Conference and Business Expo, bringing together esteemed directors, notable speakers, exhibitors, guests and other stakeholders under one roof for a two-day all-encompassing session. 

The Guild  held her AGM where several resolutions were reached. A new National Executive Council was constituted after a free and fair election. The new team is led by Dr Adesuwa Agbontaen (President) and has other members including Dr Justice Nzerem (Vice President), Dr Chigozirim Nwosu (Secretary), Dr Chijioke Okeke (Assistant Secretary), Dr Cletus Ogoh (Financial Secretary), Dr Chinwe Osele (Treasurer) and Dr Theresa Onyia (PRO)".

By Isaiah Isaac

The Rotary Club of Abuja High-Rise in partnership with Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) has taken its medical outreach program to the New Kuchingoro IDP Camp, providing essential healthcare services to the internally displaced persons residing there. 

Mariam Ahmed Abdullah, President of the Rotary Club of Abuja High-Rise disclosed this yesterday in Abuja that this effort is part of the Rotary Club's commitment to serving humanity and addressing the needs of vulnerable communities.

He explained, the Rotary Club of Abuja High-Rise's medical outreach program aligns with the organization's focus areas, including disease prevention and treatment, health and wellness, community development, by providing medical services to the IDP camp, the Rotary Club aims to improve the health and well-being of the residents, particularly children and women.

Services Provided includes free medical consultations and treatment for residents, Polio immunizations for children aged 0-5, Health awareness and education on disease prevention, free eye testing, malaria screening and treatment, HIV testing and counselling, hepatitis B and C, diabetes and glucose level screening, hypertension screening, tuberculosis screening, vitamin A administration, deworming of children, cervical/breast/prostrate Cancer screening , distribution of sanitary pads for girls and dental care

She stressed that Rotary Club's efforts demonstrate its dedication to serving humanity and making a positive impact in the community. 

"We're honored to be here in Kuchingoro, New Kuchingoro IDP Camp, our adopted community. This is our second visit this year, and we're excited to implement our Rotary Family Health Days program, including polio vaccination for children aged 0-5.

"Our presence here is driven by the community's pressing needs. During our previous visits and need assessment, we identified significant gaps in basic amenities and health services. The environment is vulnerable to polio outbreaks, and with over 70 families and numerous children, that's what helps us to recognized the urgency to act.

"Our goal is to provide essential healthcare services, promote awareness, and support this underserved community. We're proud to share the goodwill of Rotary and make a positive impact."

"Our promise to the world's children is a polio-free future. Rotary's goal extends beyond Nigeria, striving for zero polio cases globally. Recent outbreaks in other countries underscore the need for continued efforts.

We cannot coexist with polio; it must be eradicated. Our motto has evolved from 'Keep it at Zero' to 'End Polio Now.' This is Rotary's desire, and as Rotarians, our joy lies in nurturing healthy children within thriving communities.

Our priority is ensuring every child's future is healthy, regardless of their community. We're committed to going beyond polio eradication, fostering holistic well-being for generations to come."

Polio cannot be tolerated; it must be eliminated. Our mission has progressed from containment to total eradication, reflected in our updated motto: 'End Polio Now.'

Our core objective remains: raising healthy children within vibrant communities. We prioritize their well-being, striving for a brighter future beyond polio."

Speaking, Senior Program Officer, Maternal and Child Health, FCT Region at the Institute of Human virology, Helen Lutong explained the institute collaborated with Rotary Organization for Health Interventions and to provide comprehensive health services, focusing on HIV testing and counseling, Cervical and breast cancer screening awareness.

She informed that as a seasoned partner of the Institute of Human Virology, our organization has extensive experience in these interventions, saying when testing for HIV, maintaining confidentiality is crucial. To address this challenge, we utilize a mobile testing unit with private segments, allowing for discreet counseling and discussion.

Ruth David 42 years old, volunteers worker of IDP Camp, Kuchingoro extend her heartfelt gratitude to the Rotary Club for their unwavering dedication and medical outreach efforts, saying the club prompt response to the community's health needs, particularly the medical emergency involving women, has been a lifesaver. The community has faced numerous challenges, and their intervention has brought much-needed relief.

"Your commitment to addressing the root causes of diseases in the community is truly commendable. The people of Kuchingoro will never take your kindness for granted. Thank you for being a beacon of hope and providing essential healthcare services to those who need it most."

Regina Tgere-Adyara, Chair of the Rotary Family Healthcare, "Today, we're here to demonstrate our love and care for the Kuchingoro community, focusing on health, a precious aspect of life that money can't buy. As part of our Rotary Club's adoption of this community, we're providing: HIV testing and counseling, polio vaccination and healthcare services, eye care, including glasses for those in need, medical support and medication, mosquito nets for mothers and children and school fees, clothing, and supplies for children

"Our goal isn't just to meet targets; it's to show genuine love and care. We go above and beyond to support this community's well-being, regardless of numbers."

Isaiah Isaac

 

Rotary Club of Abuja Ministers Hill has taken a significant step towards enhancing education in Abuja, renovating the library and donating essential educational materials to Jahi 2 Local Education Authorty (LEA) primary school. 

The president, Rotary Club of Abuja Ministers Hill, Rotarian Oro-Ghene Adia said this initiative aims to create a conducive learning environment and empower students for future success.

The club also awarded scholarships to 20 indigent students 

The club also equipped the libery with modern furniture, quality books and essential educational resources to Improved access to education for underprivileged students, enhanced learning environment for entire school community and empowerment of future leaders and change-makers

The president informed that 20 deserving students received full scholarships, covering tuition, uniforms, books, and sports equipment.

Adia asked donors to join the Rotary Club of Abuja Ministers Hill in making a difference in education. Donate 1,000 or more to support library development and scholarship programs.

"Today, I'm thrilled to celebrate another milestone achieved by our Rotary Club. In July, we successfully implemented our Maternal Child Health project, serving over 200 mothers with essential medicines, food supplements, and healthcare facility upgrades.

"We're also delighted to continue supporting education initiatives. Last year, we identified 20 street children and provided scholarships. This year, we're proud to continue supporting these students, now in primary two, with books, uniforms, and sports equipment".

To promote education, we commissioned a library in the school, equipped with shelving, tables, chairs, and books. We're committed to stocking the library with diverse materials to enhance their educational experience.

He therefore extend heartfelt gratitude to: Rotary Club of Abuja members for their contributions, project team and board members for their dedication, Partners for their support, school administrators for their collaboration, community leaders for their encouragement and LEA board representatives for their presence

"Our commitment to education is a continuum. We'll ensure the scholarship program continues under the next president, supporting these students until they graduate from primary six".

He invited individuals and organizations to adopt a school or sponsor a child's education. A small contribution of one thousand naira to five thousand can make a significant difference. The total cost per child is approximately 20,000, covering school fees, books, and materials.

Speaking, Rotarian Daniel Etameta, District representative on basic education and literacy, Rotary International District 9127 said the club is contributing to community development, which will ultimately lead to a better society with visible economic prosperity.

He commended the Rotary Club of Abuja Ministers for this innovative initiative. Seeing the transformation of this facility from its previous state is truly impressive.

He noted, "This achievement will be communicated to the District Governor, showcasing Rotary's positive impact in our communities.

He acknowledged the Rotary Club of Abuja Ministers' outstanding initiative. This project exemplifies our commitment to community development and economic growth.

"The transformation of this library is remarkable, and I applaud the club's dedication. This success story will be shared with our District Governor, highlighting Rotary's impactful work in our communities".

We recognize the collective efforts of Rotary clubs in Abuja, supporting education and making a tangible difference."

The Jahi 2 LEA, Head teacher, Mrs Ekoko Evangeline commended the efforts and contributions made to improve the LEA school, saying our goal is to meet the educational needs of all students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

"As the head teacher, I've been encouraging parents to enroll their children. However, for those who refuse, I urge NGOs and community members to help identify and enroll children who are out of school, roaming the streets, and not participating in classes".

Also, Chief of Decaci, Jahi 2, Salihu Adamu said the Rotary Club's contributions, especially to this school, serve as a shining example for others to follow while urging other donors, individuals, and organizations to support and learn from their initiatives.

"If more organizations emulate the Rotary Club's commitment, education will flourish. Their selfless work is truly commendable".

Representing Head Of Department, primary school services, LEA AMAC, Mr Solomon Jabi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Rotary Club of Abuja Ministers Hill for their tireless efforts in supporting communities particularly children.

"Their generosity has provided: books, school bags, uniforms and more, adding that education is the key to unlocking a brighter future. Unfortunately, many parents struggle to send their children to school, leaving them idle and vulnerable".

"The Rotary Club has stepped in, making a significant difference. I commend their dedication. Without education, opportunities are limited. The Rotary Club's support has brought hope and possibilities", he said.

By Uche Onyeali

Renowned legal guru and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Dr Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) has drawn the attention of the National Assembly to the constitutional issues related to law enforcement agencies and the factors inhibiting government's objective of abolishing corruption as stated in Section 13 of the constitution.

In two separate letters to the Senate and House of Representatives, dated October 14, Agbakoba said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is an unlawful organisation which he believes was unconstitutionally established.

"I very strongly believe the EFCC is unconstitutionally established. The powers under which it was established go beyond the powers of the National Assembly. It is an unlawful organisation," Agbakoba said.

The letters were addressed separately to the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who doubles as the Chairman, House Committee on Constitution Review, while Senator Jibrin is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Constitution Review. 

Agbakoba noted that he was delighted to note that many states had finally taken it upon themselves to challenge the constitutionality of the EFCC, saying, "This will put to rest the question relating to its validity."

The letter to the deputy Senate president, titled 'Urgent Legislative Attention on Constitutional Reforms Relating to Law Enforcement Agencies and Anti-Corruption Efforts,' reads: "I commend you for the remarkable leadership you have demonstrated as chairman, Senate Constitution Review Committee, particularly in advancing government's reform agenda through a robust constitutional framework. Your efforts to strengthen the legal infrastructure underpinning the nation's development programmes are indeed commendable.

"I write to draw attention to certain constitutional issues on matters related to law enforcement agencies. As you are obviously aware, the fundamental objective of government is to abolish corruption. But from my observation, there is no harmony amongst law enforcement agencies on corruption. They all appear to be working at cross purposes. 

"This has been confirmed by the Supreme Court in so many cases. The Supreme Court has consistently sanctioned EFCC for its conduct and questioned if it can in fact validly do what it does. I will go further to say that I very strongly believe the EFCC is unconstitutionally established. The powers under which it was established go beyond the powers of the National Assembly. It is an unlawful organisation. 

"I am very delighted to note that many states have finally taken it upon themselves to challenge the constitutionality of the EFCC. This will put to rest the question relating to its validity. Whilst we await the decision of the Supreme Court as the final court on the matter, I respectfully request that the Senate convene a public hearing to consider these constitutional issues. 

"Such a hearing would provide an invaluable platform for stakeholders to discuss the reforms needed to strengthen Nigeria's legal and institutional frameworks for law enforcement and anti-corruption, which will meet the stated and laudable objectives of government to abolish corruption as stated in Section 13 of the constitution.

"I trust that, under your capable leadership, the Senate Constitution Review Committee will give these matters urgent attention in the interest of our nation's development."

By Otobong Akpakpan,  Abuja 

Amidst Perilous state of the nation  plagued with impunity and lawlessness, tribalism, hunger and poverty, out of school children, corruption, insecurity, epileptic power supply; poor health and education infrastructures etc, the Chairman Open Africa Foundation,  Tunji Aworinde has charged  teenage Students in secondary schools across FCT to uphold to the tenet of integrity and fight corruption to restore hope for the country .

Aworinde gave the charge during the 9th annual conference on financial crime and governance integrity organized by Open Africa Foundation in Conjuction with forensic insight international and summit leadership institute in Abuja on Tuesday for secondary school students with the theme " a celebration of excellence " carefully crafted to rekindle hope for a new  Nigeria free of tribal and religious bigotry, a united, peaceful and prosperous nation, where hopes are kindled and dreams realised!

The London based forensic expert envisioned a new Nigeria where the child chooses to go to school and stay in school without fearing of being kidnapped or murdered.  A new Nigeria where children will prefer the classroom walls and not numbered among the Almajirai.  A new Nigeria where leaders who make our laws will live by example as law abiding citizens.  Impunity, lawlessness, corruption, insecurity, epileptic power supply, youth  unemployment, poverty, would be confined to the sordid past of our nation’s history.

According to him, hoping for such a Nigeria is realistic and encouraged the students to keep their hope alive, for they're not not too young to hope and dream dreams, a dream of a new Nigeria, peaceful and prosperous for all.  Without a dream of the future, life is meaningless, he emphasized 

"When you have a dream, you have something to look forward to and life begins to have meaning, Ask yourself what can I do for my country, Nigeria? If you must dream a dream, dream big; if you can dream it, you can get there.  Too many young people allow their dreams to die because they fail to live the dream and/or choose to enjoy the comfort zone of the crowd".

"We believe in your dreams and hopes, to transform Nigeria into food basket, by agriculturalists  and farmers among you; engineers who would build our roads,  to travel in comfort and our motor vehicles lasting a lifetime.  Our doctors and nurses, working our hospitals to care for the sick. Engineers to explore innovations in power generation to power our industries; and technologies        to transform our nation into the envy of the world and not the poverty capital of the world.

We believe in you children; we believe in your dreams and hopes. That we have among us today, the Bill Gates of Nigeria  Microsoft;  Jeff Bezos of Nigeria  Amazon; Larry Page & Sergey Brin of Nigeria Google. Dreaming of unleashing the powers of technology of the Computer, the Internet, and the Artificial Intelligence, in transforming our nation from third to first world.

"We believe,  in your hope and dreams.  That we have among us today new generations of Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka, preparing to unleash intellectual abilities and capabilities, in transformation of our nation from import dependence to a creative industry and enviable country. The new generation of Dangotes and Mike Adenugas, willing and ready to unleash the power of industry and wealth creation, and thereby opening up the world of opportunities for the young, and making the ‘japa’ syndrome an obsolete word in our nation’s vocabulary!

The 9th annual conference also featured the 2024 essay topic '‘Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country’' (JFK 1962); which was a meticulously crafted piece of oratory, by JFK, dramatically promoting a generational change in American society, is also expected to have a transformating impact on Nigeria and called on the nation to combat crime, corruption, oppression, poverty, disease  and war; and thereby urging Nigerians to participate in public service with the zeal of patriots!

By Blessing Bature 

In a landmark event, Nigeria's government has initiated the final stages of establishing a National Intellectual Property Policy which aimed at safeguarding the country's creative innovations, cultural heritage, and artistic expressions.

Speaking at a Stakeholder's Engagement Forum, Minister of Art and Culture and the creative economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa on Monday emphasized the importance of protecting ideas, citing the invention of life-saving medicines, groundbreaking industrial processes, and iconic literary works as key pillars of society. 

She said the Stakeholder's Engagement is hosted to re-validate the Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy for Nigeria while highlighting Nigeria's rich cultural and traditional innovations, stressing the need for documentation and marketing to benefit the people.

According to her, the policy's objectives include: strengthening Legal Frameworks, enhancing intellectual property rights protection and enforcement, Institutional Development, establishing effective institutions for intellectual property management, promoting Innovation and  encouraging creativity and innovation across sectors, commercialization, facilitating the exploitation of intellectual property assets and technology transfer and building capacity for intellectual property administration and protection.

Musawa noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to attracting investments, promoting ease of doing business, and supporting the cultural and creative sectors.

She informed, "this initiative has been supported by the World Intellectual Property Organization, WIPO, and the International Finance Corporation, IFC, saying Nigeria's National Intellectual Property Policy is expected to drive competitiveness, creativity, and innovation, ultimately empowering creators and safeguarding the country's cultural heritage.

Speaking Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite said Nigerian government has taken a significant step towards protecting intellectual property (IP) rights, with the re-validation of the National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy, saying this move aims to boost the country's economic growth and development.

According to her, In 2022, a draft National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy was developed through collaborative efforts of key agencies, including the Nigeria Copyright Commission, Trademark Registry, and Patent and Design Registry. 

She However hinted that the policy had not been forwarded to the government for consideration until now.

"To address this, two committees were constituted in May 2024: the Steering Committee and the Inter-Ministerial Review Committee. These committees reviewed the draft policy document, incorporating emerging issues in the IP domain.

"The government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership, is committed to protecting Nigerians' IP rights. The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Investment acknowledges limitations in outdated laws, such as the Trademark Act and Patent and Design Act, and is reviewing them".

She called on stakeholders to participate in the re-validation process, providing valuable insights to shape the policy. With a robust IP policy, Nigeria can unlock its potential for innovation and economic growth.

Also, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate who was represented by the National Coordinator of Presidential initiative on healthcare value chain, PVAC, Dr Abdu Murhtar said Nigeria's healthcare sector is on the cusp of transformative change, thanks to a powerful collaboration between key stakeholders. 

He explained that Presidential Initiative, known as PVAC, aims to unlock the healthcare value chain, with three critical goals set by the President which is to Increase Local Manufacturing by Boosting the share of locally manufactured health products, addressing the current reliance on imported vaccines and medical products, saying 99% of medical products used in Nigeria are imported.

He also noted that the effort of the government is to educe Medical Tourism by building quality infrastructure to reduce the $2 billion spent annually on outbound medical tourism in in turns help to create Jobs, foster employment opportunities along the healthcare value chain.

Pate stressed that effective implementation of these goals hinges on a robust intellectual property policy, which is currently being developed. This policy will provide clarity and transparency, enabling partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders. 

"The Honorable Minister's efforts to establish this policy are game-changing, offering a foundation for growth and development in Nigeria's health sector".

He emphasized, "having a clear intellectual property policy in place will encourage local manufacturing and innovation, attract foreign investment and partnerships and support the growth of Nigeria's pharmaceutical industry

He pledged 100% support for the policy's implementation, adding that Nigeria is poised to make significant strides in healthcare. "The call to action is clear: all partners must work together to drive this transformation and create a brighter future for Nigeria's healthcare sector", he noted.