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Food security: Kwara is under pressure–Cadre Harmonize Report

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, March 14, 2024 (NAN) The Cadre Harmonize on Thursday in Ilorin disclosed that Kwara is among states in Nigeria that are under pressure on food security.

The Cadre Harmonisé is a unifying tool that helps to produce relevant, consensual, rigorous, and transparent analyses of current and projected food and nutrition situations.

Mr Olusoji Oyawoye, the Kwara Coordinator of Cadre Harmonize stated this at the March 2024 Analyses Result Presentation on Food Security.

He explained that foods are very expensive and increasingly becoming out of reach of the very poor in Kwara.

According to him, half of the population in the state are currently under stress, as it is difficult to get food, but people are still managing to eat somehow.

“People are having minimal food consumption and non food expenditure such as for health reasoslns are unobtainable.

“They sell thier assets so as to get foods. Despite the bumper harvest of rice in Kwara North, everything is exported out of the state to other state such as Lagos.

“Key drivers of these problem are the hike in fuel prices, and massive purchase of foodcrops from the state by other states,” he said.

The Cadre Harmonize coordinator observed that more farmers are increasingly diversifying from foodcrops to cashcrops.

He pointed out that some are leaving foodcrops auch as yams for cashcrops such as soyabeans.

According to him, there is need to step up dry season farming, while observing that more is needed to be done in area of peace and dialogue between farmers and herders.

“The Kwara Government need to create market and mop up most of the farm produce from farmers. This will ensure that the food stays in the state and people get access to it at subsidize rate from the government,” he said.

He called for the need to balance foodctops production and cashcrops, so that one does not suffer for the other.

Oyawoye warned that lack of food is the beginning of insecurity, adding that everything revolves around food security in the country.

Speaking also, Alhaji Muyideen Aliyu, the Seniour Special Adviser to Gov. AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq of Kwara pointed out that the state is still relatively peaceful when compared to other states that are facing endemic insecurity.

He noted that though there have been records of some disturbances in some local government, but that security operatives were able to curb them down.

“The state governor has lots of passion for the Agriculture sector by creating enabling environment for farmers in the state.

“A committee was created comprising of community leaders, herders and farmers to ensure issues or confrontations are neutralised.

“Over 300 vigilantes and hunters are in government payroll to ensure they are part of the security network in the state. The government is working assiduously to ensure peace prevails in the state,” he said.

Hajia Afusat Ibrahim, the Parmernent Scretary of the Kwara State Ministry of Environment lamented on the devastating effecto of climate change on the environment which have adverse effect of farming.

She warned against felling of trees, and burning them for charcoals, while enjoining people to increase tree planting.

Ibrahim disclosed that state government is embarking on land resuscitation and all stakeholders must support it.

In his presentation, Dr Habib Lawal, the Kwara Coordinator of Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project, assert that food security comes first, while every other intervention is secondary.

“When people have access to nutritional food, it will serve as protection against malnutrition,” he said.

Lawal warned that children who are stunted will never achieve thier potential in lif, adding that the future is shaky with thilese kinds of future population.

Mr Ishiaq Olorukoba, the Pamernent Secretary of the Kwara Ministry of Agriculture, and Ruarl Development pointed out that all hands must be on deck to ensure food security in the state.

He warned that everyone ia not safe, adding that a time will come when people buggle houses to get staple foods for survival.

Alleged maltreatment of a man by anti-touting in Anambra, we have no such report, says police

By Monday Ajogun

The Police command in Anambra has said that there was no report from any man who was said to have been allegedly assaulted by Anambra State Special Anti-touting Squad (SASA).

The command Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated this while speaking with newsmen on Tuesday in Onitsha.

According to him, i don’t have any information on it, i don’t know the man on the video, and there is no report like that before us.

“I also saw the video trending, but we’re trying to reach out the man in question, but I don’t have any information on it, it is a recent development”, he said.

A horrible video has surfaced on the social media, showing suspected anti-touting officials maltreating man in Anambra.

It was also observed that the suspects were seen in the video maltreating their victims with with a short pestle on his both legs.

Contacted for comments, Mr Nweke Nweke, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) Anambra Vigilant Group (AVG), holding brief for SASA, said that he would issue an official statement of that regard in due course.

Women’s Day: Kwara pledges health intervention for women living with HIV

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Kwara Government on Friday celebrated the international women’s day, while pledging health intervention for Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDs in Nigeria (ASWHAN).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kwara patner with ASWHAN to commemorate International Women’s Day 2024 today in Ilorin.

The programme which was organized with the support from UN Women and other partners, highlights the importance of investing in women to accelerate progress.

Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Amina El-Imam, the Kwara Commissioner for Health reaffirmed the stat government’s commitment to supporting people living with HIV in the state.

The Commissioner who was represented by Dr AbdulRashid Oyeniyi, Deputy Director, Public Health of the Ministry emphasized the need for inclusive policies and initiatives that uplift and empower women, particularly those facing health challenges.

In her remarks, Mrs. Olawuyi Roseline, the State Coordinator of ASWHAN, underscored the 2024 theme entitled: “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”.

She called for religious leaders to preach non-discriminatory messages in places of worship, advocating for the right of women living with HIV to marry partners of their choice without stigma or discrimination.

In his address, Mr Yusuf Animasahun, the Kwara Coordinator, Network of People Living With HIV/AIDs in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), commended Gov. AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering support for women’s rights and his commitment to placing women in high-esteem positions within his administration.

He observed that the celebration served as a beacon of hope and solidarity, reaffirming the collective determination to create a more inclusive and equitable society where every woman can thrive and contribute to progress.

Kwara to commenece vaccines for HPV by May, 2024 – Official

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Kwara Government on Friday disclosed that the state government will commence vaccines on Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) for girls of nine to 14 years of age, by May 2024.

Dr Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency stated this in Ilorin at the Meeting of the Kwara State Taskforce on Immunization and Primary Healthcare Care.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the HPV is a virus that causes the appearance of warts on the body and can be sexually transmitted (an STI).

Human papillomavirus vaccines are vaccines that prevent infection by certain types of human papillomavirus. Available HPV vaccines protect against either two, four, or nine types of HPV.

Elelu explained that the Federal Government had earlier introduced the HPV vaccines in some states, and Kwara is joining other 20 states across the federation for the life saving intervention.

“Kwara is on Phase Two of the HPV vaccine across the country. The vaccine will prevent Cervical cancer. It will start in May 2024,” she said.

She emphasized on the need to protect girls from HPV, adding that it is the second most frequent causes of cancer in Nigeria.

Similarly, the executive secretary noted that the First Polio immunization campaign for 2024 will commence on 2nd to 5th of March.

She noted that the state has recorded improvement on the routine and supplemental immunization across the 16 Local Government Area of the state.

According to her, supplemental vaccines for 2023 was successful, adding that developmental partners were supportive of the various health intervention.

She observed that due to the huge success recorded, the agency received award of $500,000, which was judiciously used to renovate PHCs in local governments.

Elelu also pointed out that a 10-days training on “Basic Emergency Obstetrics
and Newborn Care”, was organised for 60 healthcare professionals on maternal, newborn care from the fund.

She explained that the taskforce meeting is held quaterly to reminisce on the success recorded in previous year, and build on it for more success on healthcare intervention.

The executive secretary while observing success recorded however lamented on series of challenges faced, adding that the local governments need to be more involved and take responsibility and ownership of health intervention in thier areas.

Mr Kayode Alabi, the Kwara Deputy Governor, commended the agency for thier untiring efforts and the success recorded on immunization in the state.

He however appealed to them to be patient and resolute in their humanitarian work in the face of challenges.

Alabi reminded that those in the helm of authourity should put in thier best for the people they serve and be humble.

Speaking also, Dr Amina El-Imam, Kwara Commissioner for Health commemded the state government for promt intervention in releasing counterpart funding.

El-Imam who was represented by the Dr Abubakar Ayinla, the Parmernent Secretary of the Ministry reiterated resolve of the ministry to collaborate other ministries to improve health of the citizenry.

Health: Kwara Hospital board bags award for best performance

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, Feb. 20, (NAN) The Kwara State Hospital Management Board has been awarded as the 2023 Best Performing Government Agency by the National Telescope Newspaper.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the award was presented by the Organisation’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. David Olusegun represented by the Managing Director, Mr Femi Ajayi.

Speaking at presentation of the award, Olusegun described the hospital management board as having reposition the healthcare services in the state.

He explained that the management of the Board have exhibited unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare, which has transformed the landscape of medical services in kwara communities.

According to him, standard have also been set for others to aspire to.

“The 2023 Best Performing Government Agency Award being presented today is a testament to your tireless efforts and exceptional leadership.

“We acknowledge the countless hours, dedication, and passion that have been invested in improving healthcare standards and ensuring the welfare of the people,” he said.

Olusegun while commending the Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr Abdulraheem Malik, pointed out on the significant impact of the remarkable accomplishments recorded.

“May this award serve as a symbol of recognition for your continued pursuit of excellence and inspire others to follow in your footsteps.

“We look forward to witnessing the continued success and positive impact of the Kwara State Hospitals Management Board in the years to come.

In his acceptance speech, the Executive Secretary, Dr Malik dedicated the Award to Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq if Kwara.

He also appreciating National Telescope Newspaper for the recognition and assured of the state government’s continued provision of quality healthcare delivery in the state.

In his goodwill message, the Director of Medical Services of the Board, Dr Femi Joseph while commending the news organisation, congratulated the board for the recognition.

He expressed confidence that the recognition would serve as encouragement for better service delivery.

Also, the Chief Medical Director, Ilorin General Hospital who was represented by the Chairman, Medical Advisory, Committee Dr Ogunlaja Idowu, congratulated the board. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

NILDS D-G calls for training programmes for Nigerian Legislative body

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, the Director General, (D-G) National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) has advised on development of training programs for enhancement of skills and knowledge for the legislative body in Nigeria.

Sulaiman made the call in Ilorin while delivering the First Public Lecture organised by the Institute for Legislative Studies, University of Ilorin.

The presentation was entitled: “Fostering Legislative Governance through Capacity Building: Lesson from the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies”.

He stated that the legislature in Nigeria is challenged on several fronts that can be addressed through sustained capacity building.

He observed challenges including the high rate of turnover of members, and need for capacity building for its staff, intense public scrutiny on how its functions of lawmaking, oversight, and representation are conducted.

According to him, there is need to ensure that legislative processes and procedures continue to strengthen the institutions of the legislature.

“Despite these gaps, the legislature is faced with limited opportunities for capacity building.

“Thus, enhancing access to capacity-building programs for the legislature at the national and subnational levels is critical for enhancing the quality of legislative governance in Nigeria,” he said.

Sulaiman called for comprehensive and structured approach to capacity building is required.

He explained that the approach should involve the development of training programs that can enhance the skills and knowledge of members and staff of the legislative body.

The D-G added that the training programs should be designed to address the specific challenges that the legislative body is facing.

According to him, the success of capacity-building programs will depend on the commitment of stakeholders, including the legislative body itself, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

“It is crucial that these stakeholders work together to ensure that the capacity-building programs are relevant, effective, and sustainable.

“The leadership of capacity building institutions must also be proactive in drawing plans and actions that will enhance their capacity building programmes,” said Sulaiman.

The D-G stated that the Institute has become a reference point in drawing up lessons on how best a legislative building capacity institution should operate in other to meet or surpass their targets.

He advised the University of Ilorin Center for Legislative Studies to take the advantage of its location in the North Central Nigeria and its proximity to some states in the western region to build the capacity of the nation legislators and other democratic institutions in Nigeria.

Earlier in his welcome address, Prof Wahab Egbewole, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin commended NILDS for collaborating with the Institute for Legislative Studies, University of Ilorin.

He observed that the NILDS D-G has been of utmost support to the development of the institute.

The vice chancellor expreeesed hope that the the Institute for Legislative Studies, University of Ilorin will grow from strength to strength.

Also speaking, Mr Kehinde Eleja, SAN, Chairman of the Occassion, described the Legislature as an important arm of government in any democracy and Nigeria.

“The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), as the grundnorm has deliberately created the legislative arm of government.

“This is consisting of two chambers (Senate and House of Representatives) at the National level and the State House of Assembly for each State of the Federation,” he said.

Eleja stated that Section four of the Constitution outlines the scope and limits of the powers of the National Assembly, which include the power to make laws for the peace, order, and good government of the federation or any part thereof.

According to him, the Constitution also grants the National Assembly the power to conduct investigations, summon any person or authority, and expose corruption, inefficiency, or waste in the execution or administration of laws or funds appropriated by the Acts of the National Assembly.

The Lawyer observed that events in recent times have shown beyond any peradventure that in some glaring cases the legislature has performed below expectation in the discharge of its functions

He however added that in some instances, it had gone beyond its boundaries and these have affected the quality of governance in the country.

Eleja stated that some instances, the legislature has attempted to usurp the functions of some institutions that are created by law in the name of oversight functions.

He diacloaed that the Institute has a vision of being a world-class institution that promotes the culture of excellence, effectiveness, and accountability in the legislature and democracy in Nigeria.

“It has a mission of providing quality research, training, and advocacy on legislative and democratic issues, and facilitating the exchange of ideas and experiences among legislators, experts, and practitioner.

“The Institute has under the present leadership been carrying out various activities and programs that aim to foster legislative governance through capacity building,” he said.

He added that the Institute has made significant contributions and impacts on the improvement and strengthening of legislative governance in Nigeria. NAN

Experts train newsmen on Investigative, Solution journalism in Kwara

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, in partnership with Albarka 89.9 FM, organized a one-day media roundtable gathering professionals from various media organizations across Kwara.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the the media roundtable served as a platform for in-depth discussions on Investigative Journalism and Solution Journalism.

An expert on Investigative Journalism, Mrs. Joke Kujenya, spoke on the theme: “ABC of Investigative Journalism and Amplify Change for Development Using Storytelling Techniques”.

She expressed concern over the erosion of traditional media models, attributing it to the growing dominance of the internet.

She emphasized the potential ramifications for the quality of investigative journalism amidst this shift.

“Investigative journalism surpasses regular or routine daily reporting, delving into critical issues and playing a vital role in society.

“It highlights the transformative impact of exploratory stories on societal change,
promoting transparency, accountability, and social justice,” she said.

Kujenya highlighted the importance of upholding journalistic integrity and how investigative journalists play a crucial role in drawing attention to injury and injustice.

According to her, this exposes information in the public interest, and advocating for legislative reform as well as Solutions journalism increases emotional well-being.

She said: “Investigative journalism surpasses regular or routine daily reporting, delving into critical issues and playing a vital role in society.

“It highlights the transformative impact of exploratory stories on societal change,
promoting transparency, accountability, and social justice.”

According to her, Investigative journalism serves as a cornerstone, it uncovers hidden truths, holds entities accountable, and empowers citizens to make informed decisions, contributing to a healthy and functioning society.

She stated that investigative journalism holds individuals and institutions accountable for their actions, contributing to transparency and ethical governance.

Similarly Mr Usman Aliyu, an Editor with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and expert on Solution Journalism spoke on the topic: “Amplifying Change for Development: The Power of Storytelling Techniques”.

He advised that the media should act as agents of Social Change, with the significant influence to propel positive societal transformations.

Aliyu explained that media sheds light on topics such as social inequality, human rights, gender issues, and environmental change

“Media empowers individuals and communities to voice their concerns, challenge the status quo, and demand change.

He stated that Solutions Journalism boosts emotional well-being and resonates more effectively with audiences than jarring images.

“In journalism, storytelling techniques are essential for creating compelling narratives that engage readers and convey information effectively.

“Stories have a magical quality, as they evoke emotions, provoke thought,and connect us to shared human experiences.

Aliyu added that storytelling techniques offers journalists a unique way to engage and inform their audience, and the most effective approach often depends on the specific context and content of the story being told.

The NAN editor however observed that solution journalsim is rigorous, evidenced- based reporting on response to social problems.

He therefore advocated a need for delving more into human angle report, from the usual situation reports. NAN

Nigeria’s problem stems from lack of trust in leadership–former Kwara Grandkadi

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, Feb. 11, 2024 (NAN) Justice Saliu Muhammad, the Former Grandkadi of Kwara State Sharia Court of Appeal has postulated that Nigeria’s problem stems from lack of trust in leadership.

Muhammad stated this in Ilorin during the Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates’ Association (UNIFEMGA) 14th Annual Eedition of the Award Ceremony for outstanding members.

His Lecture presentation is entitled: “Responsible Leadership, Responsible Followership in Islam”.

He observed that trust is lacking, and Nigerians do not trust thier leaders because they believe that they deceived them.

He explained that followers see leaders as saying what they will not or cannot do, and squander resources jointly owned by all but entrusted to few.

Muhammad who is also the Executive Secretary, Kwara State Council of Ulama stated that these mirage of problems are challenges to all and sundry especially to Muslim leaders.

He submitted that the approach of Islam to it is to bring back trust in all the facets of our lives, adding that everyone is safdled with trust.

He quoted the prophet Muhammad (SAW) as saying: ” All of yiu are shepards and all of youshall be called upon to give account of how the flock is tendered”.

According to him, if trust is properly harnessed, there will be peace and progress, but if left aloof, it may lead to disasters, chaos ahd crises which may assume uncontrollable magnitude or dimensions.

“Both the leadership and followership are expected to play thier assigned roles in the polity in order for the country to arrive atthe promised land,” he said.

The Grandkadi believes that trust is the only way to go, which will bring progress, development peace and prosperity in all its ramifications.

He appealed to Nigerians to change thier attitude towards leaders and urged leaders to reciprocate by creating conducive environment for good governance based on honesty, trust, sincerity and fear of Allah.

Earlier in his welcome address, the National President of UNIFEMGA, Mr Olanlege Abdul-Fattah, enjoined muslims on brotherhood and love.

He admonish Muslims to remember thier brothers and sisters in Palestine on thier plight as the war rages on in Gaza.

He also commended the efforts of our South African brothers who led the trial of the Israel vs Palestine, leading to a historic judgment

“We pray for Allah’s intervention to stop the genocide currently going on in the region and bring lasting peace through real freedom for the people in the region.

“I want to remind us of our duty to the less privileged ones amongst us. Its one of our core values to empower each other,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the association awards 31 of its members for meritorious achievement.

WASA2023: Obaseki lauds military’s support on fight against criminality in Edo

By Usman Aliyu

Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo has applauded the Nigerian Army for its support on the unprecedented successes in curbing criminal activities in the state.

Obaseki gave the commendation in Benin during his remark at the occasion of the West African Social Activities (WASA) of the Nigerian Army Cantonment, Ekehuan.

The governor, represented by Mr Thompson Eromosele, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Security and Safety, appreciated the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Benin.

He thanked the army for its efforts at ensuring a peaceful coexistence with its host community as well as the general populace.

According to him, presence of the military in the state has boosted public confidence, and ensured the safety of lives and property of the peace loving people of Edo.

“This provided a secured environment for the peace loving people of Edo State to celebrate both Christmas and New Year freely,” he said.

The governor extended the gratitude to other security agencies for playing a complementary support towards ensuring peace and a crime-free society.

“Their gallant, patriotic and dedicated commitment to the peaceful atmosphere in the state is highly instrumental to the huge successes recorded thus far,” he said.

Obaseki described WASA as an occasion that afforded military officers an opportunity to unwind and relax.

“I want to appreciate the family members of our dear officers and men of the 4 Brigade for their patience and for keeping the homefront while their spouses and parents are away on military duties,” said the governor.

Earlier in his address of welcome, Commander of the 4 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Olusesan Oduyebo, said the occasion was an accepted aged-long military tradition aimed at creating a social and conducive atmosphere for the relaxation of officers, soldiers and their families.

Oduyebo, however, said that WASA has, in this contemporary times, become an avenue where the formation/units showcase its achievements.

“On this note, I wish to state with all sense of humility that we were able to achieve the Brigade’s training objectives for 2023, which was to improve professionalism and sustain regimentation.

“This was made possible by the zeal and determination of officers and soldiers of 4 Brigade.

“To this end, permit me to thank the General Officer Commanding 2 Division for his commitment to the actualisation of the 4 Brigade 2023 Training Directives and the welfare of its personnel.
“The Year 2024 has started with enthusiasm and high hopes of further actualising the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy.

“This philosophy is, ‘To Transform The Nigerian Army Into A Well-Trained, Equipped And Highly Motivated Force Towards Achieving Our Constitutional Responsibilities Within A Joint Environment,’” he said.

The Brigade commander said he would consolidate on the gains of the past year through improved discipline and sustained training to meet the Nigerian Army’s constitutional roles.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlights of the event was the presentation of award to officers who distinguished themselves in discharging their duties, cultural troupes display and lighting of the camp fire. NAN

AFCON 2024: Cardiac Society caution Nigerians on emotional events, over excitement

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Ilorin, Feb. 10, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Cardiac Society, on Saturday caution Nigerians to avoid getting overly excited during games, and emotional events, while advising taking breaks if needed.

The warning is comming ahead of the match between Super Eagles of Nigeria and thier counterpart from Cote D’Ivoire for the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023) competition holding in Cote D’Ivoire.

In a commiseration massage jointly signed by Prof. Augustine Odili, the National President, Prof. Chizindu Alinkor, the Secretary-General and Prof. Abiodun Akintunde, th Publicity Secretary of the society.

The society commiserated with the families of the deceased linked with the surge of emotions associated with the Nigeria- South Africa Match AFCON 2024 competition holding in Cote D’Ivoire.

They warned that sports and other emotional events can trigger arrhythmias, heart attacks, and strokes in those with underlying heart conditions.

“The society notes with utmost concern the several reported cases of sudden deaths among Nigerians both at home and abroad directly or indirectly .

“We wish to commiserate with the immediate families of the deceased and the Country at large and pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased.

“The reported deaths of at least four individuals occurring during the Match leaves much to be desired on the cardiovascular health of Nigerians,” they said.

The society observed that while they cannot authoritatively confirm the exact cause of death in these situations without prejudice.

They explained that it is a duty to call the attention of Nigerians to the very possibility that sudden death can often occur either in the presence/absence of risk factors.

The experts explained that many of these risk factors are highly prevalent among Nigerians and are also poorly controlled.

They descirbed sudden death is defined as a natural, unexpected fatal event occurring within one hour from the onset of symptoms, in an apparently healthy subject, or in one whose disease was not so severe to predict such an abrupt outcome.

“Sudden cardiac death can be defined as death resulting from abrupt loss of cardiac function with or without previous heart disease unexpected within 1 hour of onset of symptoms.

“About 50 percent of all deaths from heart diseases are sudden regardless of the aetiology.

“It has also been shown that 89 percent of all sudden cardiac death occur outside the hospital and less that 40 percent are witnessed,” they said.

The Surgeons stated that the causes of sudden death are as varied as its presentation, includeling complications of hypertension, heart attack, stroke, heart failure, cardiomyopathies, valvular disorders and, pulmonary thromboembolism among others.

They explained further that the risk factors for heart disease are many, including lack of physical exercise, smoking tobacco, consuming alcohol, eating unhealthy diets rich in salt and saturated fats and low in fresh fruits and vegetables.

“Other risk factors include high blood pressure (hypertension), high blood lipids/cholesterol (dyslipidaemia), overweight and obesity, and diabetes mellitus.

“Hypertension is the most common risk factor for heart disease and stroke in Nigeria.

The experts in heart diseases observed that, three out of every 10 adult Nigerians have high blood pressure, many of whom are unaware of their hypertensive status.

They called for effective blood pressure control as a major panacea for reducing the cardiovascular risk of affected people.

According to them, only about seven percent of hypertensive subjects have been shown to achieve effective blood pressure control in Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries.

“We urge all Nigerians to learn the warning signs of cardiac distress and how to respond in an emergency. Know your family history and risk factors and get regular screenings.

“Take steps to manage conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Avoid smoking, eat healthy, exercise, and manage stress.

“For those with heart disease, take medications as prescribed and follow your doctor’s advice,” they said.

” It should be noted that left-sided chest pain should not be taken with levity and should warrant a medical examination,” they said.

The doctors urge all Nigerians to learn the warning signs of cardiac distress and how to respond in an emergency. Know your family history and risk factors and get regular screenings.

They advised people to take steps to manage conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes and avoid smoking, eat healthy, exercise, and manage stress.

They called on those with heart disease to take medications as prescribed and follow your doctor’s advice and acoid getting overly excited during games and take breaks as needed.

“Have emergency numbers handy and do not hesitate to call for help. Better to miss a play than miss a life,” they said.

“With preventive care and caution, we can still cheer on our teams while safeguarding our health.

” We call on all Nigerians to look out for one another and promote heart-healthy lifestyles. Together we can honor those we have lost by preventing similar tragedies in the future,” they said.

The Society calls on the government to increase the funding for health to encourage early and regular screening for cardiovascular risk factors.

“There is also an urgent need for institutionalizing effective cardiovascular care among Nigerians by providing adequate facilities for the hospitals.

They also called for adequate remuneration for health workers to discourage brain drain in the health sector, and promoting effective lifestyle modification to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease among the population.

The society calls for calm and collective activity of all Nigerians to stem the tide of the rising cardiovascular disease scare among Nigerians with effective surveillance and population-oriented preventive strategies.

“Better to miss a play than miss a life. Warning symptoms preceding a sudden death may include chest pain, breathlessness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and fainting attacks,” they said.