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NAWOJ FCT CONGRESS: CANCER AWARENESS, INSECURITY, AND GENDER INEQUALITY TAKE CENTER STAGE

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, has emphasized the importance of early cancer screening, declaring that “cancer is not a death sentence.” This call to action was made during the association’s June 2025 Congress in Abuja, where women journalists gathered to address key national issues and chart a path forward for the association. Dr. Tessy Ahmadu, a Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist from FMC Jabi, commended NAWOJ FCT members for participating in the March 2025 free cancer screening exercise. “Cancer is not a death sentence. Early detection is our strongest defense,” Dr. Ahmadu said, encouraging broader adoption of the Thermalytix screening method used during the outreach. The Congress also tackled pressing national issues, including insecurity and marginalization of women in national recognition. NAWOJ FCT expressed disappointment that only three women were included on the honours list during the Democracy Day celebrations. The association praised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for addressing residents’ complaints about water supply but condemned ongoing banditry, high cost of living, power failures, and lack of government response to violent crimes. The Congress reacted strongly to the armed robbery attack on its Vice Chairperson, Comrade Bolanle Ukpevo, demanding immediate government intervention to protect citizens and journalists. “The association described the attack as one too many,” the group stated. On internal matters, NAWOJ FCT resolved to boost membership participation, establish a physical condolence team for bereaved members, and advocate for government-provided palliatives for senior citizens. Members were also encouraged to voluntarily donate blood and help debunk myths about women and blood donation. Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang urged members to contribute innovative ideas to reposition the chapter, reaffirming her commitment to building a stronger, safer, and more inclusive platform for women journalists in the FCT. The Congress was formally adjourned and will reconvene in July 2025.

DEFENCE MINISTRY REITERATES COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE IN MILITARY HEALTHCARE AND TRAINING INFRASTRUCTURE

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery and training infrastructure across the Nigerian Armed Forces. Senior Information Officer, Ebah Elvis Jiyovwi, disclosed this in a statement, highlighting the Ministry’s strategic vision. Ambassador Aduda inspected the newly completed 100-bed Medical Interns Accommodation Facility at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital (NARH) in Kaduna. The state-of-the-art complex features en-suite rooms, fully equipped common areas, recreational lounges, and an alternative solar power system, designed to provide a comfortable and sustainable living environment for medical interns. “By investing in quality living conditions, we empower our interns to focus on their responsibilities without distraction, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for our gallant men and women in uniform,” Aduda stated after the tour. Aduda expressed satisfaction with the quality of the facility, noting that dignified accommodation plays a critical role in improving the performance and morale of healthcare professionals within the Armed Forces. He also underscored the importance of reliable infrastructure such as steady power supply and well-equipped communal areas. In a related development, Aduda conducted an assessment visit to the Special Operations Forces Training Ground at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Camp Kabala, where he commended the high standards of discipline and operational readiness demonstrated by the personnel. Ebah Elvis Jiyovwi noted that these visits underscore the Ministry’s broader strategic vision to strengthen operational capacity and enhance the welfare of military personnel through sustained investment in infrastructure and human capital.

NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS ORGANISES HEALTH AND WELLNESS SEMINAR FOR MEMBERS

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Correspondents Chapel organised a health and wellness seminar with the theme “Occupational Health Awareness and Social Welfare” on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. The seminar brought together experts to discuss various topics, including sudden death syndrome, preparing for retirement, occupational hazards, and social welfare benefits for journalists. The Guest Speaker, Dr. Emem Omokaro, lamented that many journalists lack health insurance, leading to stress and anxiety. “Some journalists suffer when they go on retirement; they should reduce the risk of harm by planning and staying healthy,” she said. Dr. Omokaro urged journalists to take responsibility for their health by engaging in regular exercise and healthy lifestyles. Another Guest Speaker, Mrs. Bolanle Ernest, emphasized the importance of planning for the future and creating a good foundation for social welfare. “Lay good foundation for yourselves today, especially social welfare that will meet your needs in the future,” she advised. She also urged employers to create a conducive work environment and provide social welfare support systems for journalists. The Acting Chairman of the Chapel, Comrade Felix Ojo, described journalism as a noble profession and encouraged journalists to prioritize their health. “Health is wealth and everyone’s fundamental human right,” he said. The Assistant National Secretary, NUJ, Comrade Tita Onyebuchi Nze, also highlighted the risks associated with journalism and encouraged journalists to pay attention to their health. The seminar included panel discussions and goodwill messages from government agencies and parastatals. Bizziii Medical Health Check screened and administered free doses of herbal products to over 100 journalists. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Comrade Joy Omagha Idam, Secretary of the Welfare Committee.

PRESIDENT TINUBU’S ADMINISTRATION REVOLUTIONIZES EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES IN NIGERIA

The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to transform the emergency medical services in Nigeria, prioritizing preventative care and building enabling infrastructure. In a statement, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate noted that the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) has placed a strong emphasis on emergency services, particularly for rural dwellers. The Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, explained that the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) is at an advanced stage, with a focus on establishing the Rural Emergency Service and Maternal Transport (RESMAT) system. This initiative is being implemented in close collaboration with state and local governments. “We fully recognize that accidents happen, and sudden emergencies do occur when least expected,” Pate said. Pate highlighted the importance of emergency medical services, citing the need for a robust system to reduce maternal and child mortality rates. The NEMSAS initiative has been rolled out in various states, including Bauchi, where Pate flagged off the emergency medical services and ambulance system. The RESMAT system aims to provide emergency services to rural dwellers, addressing the lack of access to healthcare in these areas. This initiative is part of the federal government’s efforts to strengthen the healthcare system and provide quality services to citizens. As Pate noted, the NHSRII is committed to transforming the healthcare sector, and the NEMSAS initiative is a key component of this effort.