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Nigeria’s Health Minister Says The Nation Will Soon Receive COVID-19 Vaccines from COVAX

Nigeria's Health Minister

In response to the scramble by nations around the world to get their hands on the COVID – 19 vaccines, Nigeria’s Health Minister , Dr Osagie Ehanire, says the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines from COVAX will arrive in Nigeria from February.

Ehanire said Nigerians should expect the first roll out of the vaccines as from February, did not specify the date or time.

“According to latest information I have, we have been advised to expect the first COVID-19 vaccines from COVAX to arrive in Nigeria as from February. We shall continue to review plans to ensure smooth roll out in our country,”

“The date of first arrival of vaccines in Nigeria has kept changing, because the decision lies with the manufacturer who already has heavy commitments,”

“Altogether, it will give us coverage for over 50 per cent of our target for 2021, if we can access all doses promised,”

“Besides, the Director-General of WHO has repeatedly stated that no country is safe till all countries are safe.

“We have been keeping a strict eye on the vaccines scene and those who follow International news may have heard of the scramble for vaccines which has pitched some countries against each other in Europe, as wealthy high-income countries have pre-paid to allocate vaccines to themselves.

“A spokesperson for WHO estimated that 95 per cent of vaccines manufactured globally so far has gone to only 10 rich and powerful countries.”

Also Read: We have Started Making Contacts With COVID-19 Vaccine Manufacturers – Gov. Sanwo Olu

He explained that the delay being experienced in receiving the first batch of COVID-19 vaccine was because manufacturers were yet to take decisions on when to deploy it to the country.

Ehanire said that Nigeria had been allocated over 41 million doses by the AU’s African Vaccines Acquisition Task Team AVATT and was expecting 15 of about 41 million doses from COVAX.

The minister, therefore, reiterated the call by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for global equity in the allocation of vaccines, noting that COVID-19 was a threat to mankind, and not only to any country alone.

Ehanire said that the Ministry of Health’s Oxygen Strategy had been boosted by the addition of 38 proposed Oxygen plants, now in procurement processes. He said that it would address COVID-19 treatment centres’ needs and the long neglected oxygen needs of the health sector in the post-COVID-19 era.

 

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Health

TG Omori bemoans the high cost of dialysis in Nigeria

In a post on X, Omori expressed his sadness over how a single dialysis session costs over ₦100,000, with some patients requiring at least three sessions weekly. He compared this to the national minimum wage of ₦70,000, questioning how ordinary Nigerians could ever afford such life-saving care.

Dialysis is about 100k plus per session; sometimes you need 3 sessions in a week, minimum wage is 70k. Knowing this fact brought me tears in the hospital cause no hope for the common man.

The 30-year-old’s post sparked debate online, with many Nigerians sharing their frustrations about the state of the country’s healthcare system, and others comparing Nigeria to other countries.

See some reactions below:

“In Türkiye is free for citizens, I saw a man who has been on dialysis for decades and still looking healthy….Nigerians keep selling their votes for 5k every 4-year election circles, while churches keep selling faith every Sunday but reality is our Healthcare system is nothing to write home about. Dialysis machines are not expensive 💔”

Your President has been thoughtful about it. That’s why 80% dialysis subsidies is implemented.

This is where the phrase “bigman big sickness; poor man small sickness” comes from. Before a poor man gets to the level of needing dialysis they would’ve already died. Very sad reality of not being rich in Nigeria .”

“The reason I fight for good governance is me see that you can actually get this for free in the country I live. A young Nigerian guy was doing this for almost 4years until he had his kidney replaced and all this was done for free, like he did not pay a dime. If that young man was living in Nigeria, he would have been gone and buried.”

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Health

5 Common Daily Habits Bad for Your Brain Health

Your brain is the control center of your entire body; it handles your thoughts, memories, emotions, and even how you move. Just like any other important part of your body, your brain needs care and attention to stay healthy. Many people unknowingly follow habits every day that slowly damage brain function. Here are five common daily habits that could be harming your brain without you even realizing it

1. Skipping Breakfast

You’ve heard it before: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yet many people rush out the door without eating. When you skip breakfast, your brain doesn’t get the glucose (sugar) it needs to function properly. This can make you feel tired, unfocused, and moody. Over time, constantly missing breakfast can affect your memory and mental performance.

2. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is your brain’s time to recharge. It processes information, forms memories, and clears out waste products. When you sleep less than the recommended 7–9 hours a night, your brain becomes foggy. Long-term sleep deprivation has been linked to poor concentration, slower thinking, depression, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

3. Too Much Screen Time

From scrolling on your phone to watching TV or working on a computer, screens are everywhere. While technology can be helpful, too much screen time can lead to digital overload. It reduces your attention span, affects your sleep, and limits real-life interactions. Excessive screen use also keeps your brain from engaging in activities that build creativity and critical thinking like reading, playing games, or having face-to-face conversations.

4. Lack of Physical Exercise

Believe it or not, your brain loves it when you move. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and boosts the production of chemicals that improve mood and memory. Sitting for long hours without exercising weakens these benefits. A sedentary lifestyle has been linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline and mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

5. Multitasking

Trying to do several things at once, like texting while eating, watching TV while working, or checking emails during conversations, may seem efficient, but it makes your brain less effective. Multitasking reduces your focus, lowers productivity, and makes it harder to remember information. Over time, it can lead to mental fatigue and stress.

The good news? These harmful habits can be changed. Start your day with a healthy breakfast, aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep, move your body regularly, take breaks from screens, and give your full attention to one task at a time. These small changes can go a long way in keeping your brain sharp, focused, and healthy for years to come. After all, your brain works for you 24/7, it deserves better than burnout.

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Health

Superfoods to Boost Your Immune System

A strong immune system is essential for defending your body against illnesses and infections. While no single food can guarantee immunity, incorporating nutrient-rich superfoods into your diet can help strengthen your body’s natural defenses. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these superfoods provide the building blocks your immune system needs to function optimally. Here’s a list of top superfoods to include in your diet for an immune system boost.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are well-known for their high vitamin C content. This powerful antioxidant helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, essential for fighting infections.

How to Include: Add fresh lemon juice to water, and enjoy an orange as a snack.

Yogurt

Yogurt contains probiotics that support gut health, especially varieties with live and active cultures. Since a significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut, maintaining a healthy microbiome is key to overall immunity.

How to Include: Opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt and add honey or fresh fruits for natural sweetness.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining the health of mucous membranes, which act as a barrier to pathogens.

How to Include: Roast sweet potatoes with olive oil and spices, or mash them as a side dish.

Ginger

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It can help reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress, which can weaken the immune system. Ginger is also beneficial for soothing sore throats and nausea.

How to Include: Brew fresh ginger tea, add grated ginger to smoothies, or use it in marinades and sauces.

Red Bell Peppers

Red bell peppers contain more vitamin C than most citrus fruits, making them a top choice for immune support. They are also rich in beta-carotene, contributing to healthy skin and mucous membranes.

How to Include: Slice raw peppers for a crunchy snack or roast them for a flavorful dish addition.

Turmeric

This vibrant yellow spice is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to its active ingredient, curcumin. Turmeric may enhance immune cell activity and help the body fight infections.

How to Include: Stir turmeric into soups, curries, or golden milk lattes for a healthful boost.

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