Nigeria

In a bold stance against the perils of beauty standards, the government has issued a resounding caution against the rampant use of skin bleaching products both within the nation and beyond its borders. This warning comes despite the glaringly obvious—yet often ignored—dangers associated with these products. During a recent forum aimed at shedding light on this troubling trend, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, expressed his deep concern over the pervasive presence of skin lightening creams,…

The return of Donald Trump to the Oval Office has cast a long shadow of uncertainty over Africa. As the 47th President of the United States, Trump’s policies could either build bridges or deepen divides, and the continent is bracing for what lies ahead. On one hand, there’s a flicker of hope illuminating the darker corners of apprehension. Trump's meteoric rise back to power signals a potential shake-up of the status quo, not just domestically but internationally as well. As he gears up for the 2024 election, he touts a…

In a tragic turn of events, at least 86 lives have been claimed and countless others injured following the catastrophic explosion of a fuel tanker in Niger State, nestled in northern Nigeria. The heartbreaking reality is that most of the victims were local residents, drawn to the scene like moths to a flame, desperate to collect the spilled petrol. It’s a stark and grim reminder of the struggles faced by impoverished communities where the lure of potential profit outweighs the looming dangers, as authorities have reported.…

In a tragic turn of events, human rights organizations are up in arms over a recent series of army airstrikes in Nigeria's northeast region, where military forces have been embroiled in a longstanding conflict against various armed insurgents. These air raids, described as "accidents" by military leaders, have led to the heartbreaking deaths of at least 15 innocent civilians—an event that has sparked outrage and disbelief among local communities and international observers alike. General Christopher Musa, the army chief, is…

The Nigerian government has firmly stated that it will not permit the presence of foreign military forces within its borders as it navigates ongoing security challenges from insurgents and bandits. Nonetheless, it has expressed a willingness to collaborate internationally to "domesticate" military equipment production, aiming to sidestep delays often associated with procurement processes. President Bola Tinubu made these remarks during a recent meeting in Abuja with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Furthermore, President…

In a decisive move, Lagos State officials are urging philanthropists, individuals, and organizations to register with local safety agencies when planning large gatherings—specifically, those expecting over 250 attendees. This call for precaution comes in the wake of a tragic series of incidents where numerous lives were lost due to dangerous stampedes at charity events. It’s a reminder of the paramount importance of safety during the festive season, a time usually filled with joy and generosity. Just last Christmas, a…

It’s painfully clear that this Christmas is shaping up to be one of the darkest for countless Nigerians. This isn’t due to a lack of enthusiasm or spirit; far from it! The issue at hand is a stark economic reality that makes the notion of celebration seem almost impossible. Ikechukwu Amaechi articulates this sentiment in The Vanguard, stating that the prevailing conditions are dampening the joys of the season. He highlights that this year's festivities feel more like a distant dream. Families are grappling with financial…

Nigeria is making strides toward revitalizing its Warri oil refinery, which has been dormant for nearly a decade due to a series of technical problems. The Warri Refinery, boasting an impressive capacity of 125,000 barrels per day, had faced prolonged closures as a result of aging infrastructure and a lack of crude oil supply. However, recent reports indicate that operations have recommenced, and the facility is currently functioning at about 60% of its capacity, as shared by Bayo Onanuga, spokesperson for the presidency.…

Chidimma Adetshina has carved out a significant milestone in history, becoming the first Nigerian to clinch the title of first runner-up at the prestigious 73rd Miss Universe pageant. In the wake of this remarkable achievement, Adetshina took to Instagram to share her heartfelt appreciation. She reminisced about the unwavering support she received from Nigerians during her most challenging times. "Together, we find strength," she noted, highlighting how the vast African continent has imparted lessons on the essence of unity…

Doctors Without Borders, an esteemed international medical charity, is urgently appealing to major pharmaceutical companies and every manufacturer of insulin to dramatically improve access to diabetes treatments in low- and middle-income nations. They’re advocating for the availability of insulin pen injection devices at a price point of just $1. In their recent announcement, they underscored a staggering fact: approximately 80% of individuals living with diabetes are found in low- and middle-income countries. These regions…