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Striking Doctors To N/Assembly: Ban Govt Officials From Medical Tourism

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The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has called on the National Assembly to ban public officials from seeking medical treatment abroad.

Leaders of the association made the call at the onset of their nationwide strike on Thursday, three days after President Muhammadu Buhari travelled to London for a medical check-up.

President of NARD, Dr Uyilawa Okhuaihesuyi, made the call on the urgent need to ban officials from traveling abroad for medical purposes during an interview with Daily Trust in Abuja.

He said doing so will bring the desired improvement in the country’s health sector and also save the lives of millions of poor Nigerians who do not have the means of traveling abroad to attend to their health challenges.

Dr Okhuaihesuyi said: “If medical tourism is banned in Nigeria, it will encourage the public officials to be able to develop the health system in the country.”

Asked if that would not put many lives at risk considering the poor state of the country’s health system, and the fact that many people who embark on medical tourism do so for serious and chronic diseases such as kidney, cancer and heart diseases, among others, he said: “We have one of the best set of health workers in the world, and that is why most countries tend to scavenge on doctors in Nigeria.

“What the government needs to do is to make the hospital functional, provide equipment such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), CT Scan, radiotherapy machines, and to make their lives comfortable. Nigerians will not need to travel anywhere,” he added.

He said if the N576 billion being spent on medical tourism is deployed in renovating health infrastructure and improving service delivery, the country’s health sector would be better for it. “There is a need for government to make health a priority,” he said.

Nigeria is estimated to lose over $ 1 billion dollars to medical tourism annually. The amount many times exceeded the total amount allocated to the health sector in yearly budgets in the country.

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BREAKING NEWS: Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Awujale of Ijebuland, Passes at 91

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Ijebu Ode, Nigeria — A monumental chapter in Nigeria’s traditional history has come to a close. Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, has reportedly joined his ancestors at the age of 91, after reigning with wisdom and grace for over six decades.

The revered monarch, who ascended the throne in 1960, was one of Africa’s longest-serving traditional rulers. His reign witnessed the transformation of Ijebuland into a symbol of cultural pride, economic vitality, and progressive leadership. Often referred to as a king of the people, Oba Adetona was admired for his fearless advocacy, sharp intellect, and unwavering dedication to the development of his kingdom.

Born into the royal Anikilaya family of Ijebu Ode, Oba Adetona was installed as Awujale at the youthful age of 26. Throughout his reign, he became a national figure, respected by politicians, academics, business moguls, and traditional institutions across Nigeria and beyond. His influence extended far beyond royal duties, often shaping national conversations on good governance, traditional relevance, and constitutional order.

Though his exit from this world marks the end of an era, his impact will continue to echo through time. Under his watch, Ijebuland thrived culturally and economically, with landmarks like the annual Ojude Oba Festival gaining international recognition.

Condolences have begun to pour in from dignitaries, royal houses, and citizens, all mourning the loss of a great custodian of Yoruba heritage.

Details regarding funeral rites and official mourning procedures are expected to be announced by the royal family and the Ijebu traditional council in the coming days.

As Ijebuland bows its head in deep reverence, Nigeria remembers a king who ruled not just with a crown, but with courage, vision, and a profound sense of service.

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Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82

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Nigeria is in mourning as news breaks of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The elder statesman reportedly passed away in the early hours of today at the age of 82.

Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 to 2023, was known for his anti-corruption stance, military background, and strong influence on Nigeria’s political landscape for over four decades. Before his civilian presidency, he also ruled as military head of state from 1983 to 1985.

Sources close to the family confirmed his peaceful passing at his Daura residence in Katsina State, surrounded by loved ones. Official statements from the presidency and his family are expected soon.

Tributes have started pouring in from across the nation and beyond, recognizing Buhari’s role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic journey and his dedication to national security and infrastructural development.

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Akpabio Removes Natasha Akpoti as Chairman of The Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs

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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made a major change in the leadership of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been removed as the Chair of the committee, and a new replacement has been named immediately.

Although no official explanation was given at the time of the announcement, the development has sparked conversations in political circles. Senator Natasha, known for her passion in representing diaspora-related matters, has not yet reacted publicly.

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