Gemsbok Group has announced significant upgrades to its artificial intelligence (AI) platform, gemsbokGPT, as revealed by founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Charles Awuzie, during the recent two-day Singularity Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, themed “Igniting Africa’s Future.”

Awuzie, a Nigerian-South African technology entrepreneur, emphasized that the Singularity Summit serves as a global gathering of technologists discussing the potential of emerging technologies, including AI and blockchain, to tackle pressing global issues in sectors like finance, energy, security, and disaster management.

The new features of gemsbokGPT include:

• Text-to-video: Generates videos in seconds.
• Text-to-3D: Creates 3D product designs rapidly.
• PDF-to-audio: Converts PDF documents into audio format.
• Text-to-images: Produces high-definition images.
• Text-to-professional CV: Builds professional CVs.
• Audio-to-PDF: Transcribes audio from sermons and speeches into eBook format.
• Text-to-code: Generates code from text prompts.

Additionally, the upgraded platform boasts over 35 AI bots, including Jakpa AI, which serves as a relationship counselor, business coach, and AI book writer, among other functionalities. Awuzie expressed confidence that these advancements will position gemsbokGPT as one of the most sophisticated generative AI platforms emerging from Africa.

In a notable shift, the company plans to transition from a monthly subscription model to a pay-as-you-use payment structure. Awuzie stated, “Once we hit $1 million in either revenue or funding, we shall make the platform free to accelerate AI adoption in Africa. We have developed alternative ways to generate revenue from the platform when it becomes free as well.”

While the gemsbokGPT website is currently operational, Awuzie acknowledged that they are addressing some existing bugs.

Reflecting on the broader implications of AI, he noted that the educational system is evolving. He stated, “In the pre-AI era, the school system taught humans how to answer examination questions, but technology is changing that system. Now that AI can answer all academic questions, the best students today are no longer those who can provide the right answers but those who can ask the right questions.”

An ad hoc committee of the House of Representatives has expressed serious concerns regarding the state of the Kaduna-Abuja section of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road project. During an oversight visit to inspect the highway, the committee members criticized the slow progress of work by the contractor and pledged to ensure that construction resumes promptly and the road is made accessible to the public as soon as possible.

Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji, highlighted the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for immediate action. This follows a warning from the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, who threatened to revoke the contractor’s contract if work does not recommence within seven days. Umahi expressed dissatisfaction with the sluggish pace of completion since the project was awarded six years ago in 2018.

During the oversight visit, Jaji assured that the committee would intervene in the matter to resolve the issues delaying progress. He stated, “We’ll do our best to ensure that all things have been done in accordance with the contractual agreement and other applications that are supposed to be executed in the National Assembly, especially by this particular committee.”

Jaji noted that both the contractors and the Minister must adhere to their commitments under the contractual agreement. He also mentioned that the committee is awaiting formal updates and has requested necessary information from the Ministry of Works. Additionally, the committee plans to communicate with relevant agencies involved in the palliative measures currently being undertaken on the Abuja-Kaduna road.

He concluded by affirming the committee’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised and ensuring that progress on the road project is expedited.

The Francess Barbara Foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of families struggling with food insecurity through its dedicated outreach programs. Committed to community support and care, the foundation has been actively providing essential food and supplies to underserved neighborhoods.

In recent months, the foundation has organized several successful food distribution events, focusing on families facing economic hardships and ensuring they have access to nutritious food. Francess Ebea, the founder of the Francess Barbara Foundation, emphasizes the importance of these initiatives, stating, “No one should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. Our goal is to support families in need and help ease their burden. By providing food and essentials, we hope to make a positive impact on their daily lives.”

During a recent event, volunteers distributed food packages containing staples like rice, beans, and vegetables, as well as hygiene products and other necessities. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Francess shares, “Seeing the relief and gratitude on people’s faces is incredibly moving. It reinforces our commitment to giving back and supporting those who need it most.”

In addition to food distribution, the foundation is focused on raising awareness about the broader issues of poverty and hunger. Collaborating with local organizations, they work to identify the most vulnerable families, ensuring that assistance reaches those in critical need.

The Francess Barbara Foundation also organizes educational workshops on nutrition and financial management. These workshops aim to empower families with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their long-term well-being and financial stability. Francess explains, “While our immediate focus is on providing essential items, we also want to help families build a better future. Our workshops are designed to offer practical advice and support, helping individuals manage their resources more effectively.”

The foundation’s dedication to alleviating hunger and supporting underserved families is making a significant impact. Their efforts not only address immediate needs but also contribute to the overall well-being of the community. By offering food, resources, and education, the Francess Barbara Foundation is helping to build a stronger and more resilient community for everyone

The Igbo community in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos State, recently held a vibrant celebration for the 2024 New Yam Festival, showcasing cultural ties with China through a collaboration with the HuaXing Arts Troupe Nigeria and the local Chinese community. This annual festival marks the conclusion of the farming season and heralds a new cycle of abundance and prosperity.

Attendees enjoyed an array of cultural performances, including traditional Igbo war dances, captivating masquerades, and the energetic Chinese lion dance, alongside the waist drum dance. The event featured the communal cutting and tasting of yams, fostering a rich tapestry of shared experiences among community members, who donned traditional attire, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

A significant highlight of the celebration was the presentation of N100,000 in educational support to ten students from the Amuwo Odofin council. Eze Augustine Sunday Ojukwu, the Eze Nidigbo of Amuwo Odofin, welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and unity in his address.

Ojukwu remarked, “As we gather to celebrate the bountiful harvest that God has blessed us with, we are also celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and China, which represents the enduring bonds of friendship and unity that bind us together. This is a moment for us to give thanks, to reflect on our journey, and to renew our commitment to our community and our values.”

He also expressed his gratitude to Chief Eric Ni, the Nwanne Di Namba of Amuwo Odofin, for generously providing scholarships to deserving students. Ojukwu highlighted this contribution as a vital reminder of the role education plays in shaping the future of the community’s youth.

The Igbo community in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos State, recently celebrated the 2024 New Yam Festival, emphasizing cultural ties with China through a collaborative effort involving the HuaXing Arts Troupe Nigeria and the local Chinese community. This vibrant event marks the end of the farming season, symbolizing the onset of a new cycle filled with abundance and prosperity.

The festival featured a variety of cultural performances, including traditional Igbo war dances, captivating masquerades, the energetic Chinese lion dance, and the waist drum dance. Attendees were treated to the communal cutting and tasting of yams, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences. The atmosphere was further enhanced by community members dressed in traditional attire, reflecting the festive spirit of the occasion.

A notable highlight of the celebration was the presentation of N100,000 in educational support to ten students from the Amuwo Odofin council. Eze Augustine Sunday Ojukwu, the Eze Nidigbo of Amuwo Odofin, welcomed guests and underscored the importance of cultural exchange and unity during his address.

Ojukwu stated, “As we gather to celebrate the bountiful harvest that God has blessed us with, we are also celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and China, which represents the enduring bonds of friendship and unity that bind us together. This is a moment for us to give thanks, to reflect on our journey, and to renew our commitment to our community and our values.”

He also expressed gratitude to Chief Eric Ni, the Nwanne Di Namba of Amuwo Odofin, for his generous support in providing scholarships to the deserving students. Ojukwu highlighted this gesture as a reminder of the critical role education plays in shaping the future of the youth in the community.

The Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC) is set to honor its Serving Overseer, Pastor Tunde Bakare, in celebration of his 70th birthday with a week-long series of events beginning on Sunday, November 10.

Kayode Ladeinde, the Team Lead for the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee of CGCC, shared details about the celebration, emphasizing Bakare’s significant influence as a spiritual leader, passionate preacher, and advocate for justice. Known affectionately as PTB, Bakare’s impactful teachings and dedication to service have inspired millions both within the church and in the broader society. His contributions extend to socio-political realms, where he has been recognized for his candid remarks on national issues and his commitment to ethical leadership. Notably, he served as the running mate to former President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2011 presidential election, showcasing his deep interest in Nigeria’s future.

The week’s activities include:

• Sunday, November 10: Appreciation Sunday organized by Affinity Groups within CGCC.
• Monday, November 11: Birthday Thanksgiving Service and Book Presentation.
• Tuesday, November 12: Law Endowment Fund and Solar Project Commissioning at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) themed “Let There Be Light.”
• Wednesday, November 13: Wellness and Health Talk titled “A Formula for a Sickness-Free Life” by Dr. Susana Adams.
• Friday, November 15: Inaugural Lecture hosted by The Citadel Centre for Development (TCCD).
• Sunday, November 17: Final Thanksgiving Service at CGCC, celebrating 70 years of impactful leadership and prophetic-apostolic ministry.

This week of events highlights Pastor Bakare’s multifaceted influence, bridging spiritual guidance and national advocacy, and invites all to partake in the celebration of a dedicated servant-leader committed to righteousness and justice.

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has been recognized as a finalist for the Global Alliance World Public Relations & Communication Awards. NIPR has been nominated for the prestigious title of Global Public Relations Association of the Year, competing alongside notable organizations such as the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

This award category celebrates organizations that demonstrate exemplary public relations and communication efforts. NIPR’s nomination is attributed to its innovative use of media relations and stakeholder engagement strategies aimed at combating quackery within the industry. The institute has effectively implemented advanced public relations tactics to enhance the profession’s reputation in Nigeria.

Under the leadership of Dr. Ike Naliaku, NIPR has achieved significant milestones over the past year. These include receiving governmental endorsements, integrating public relations as a recognized cadre within civil public services, and certifying PR professionals as spokespersons for prominent organizations. Additionally, the NIPR has inducted over 2,040 new members, including military generals, lawyers, and editors, further advancing the professionalism of the field.

The Global Alliance World Public Relations & Communication Awards recognize campaigns that exemplify strategic planning, creativity, and transformative business results. A panel of industry experts, thought leaders, and academics evaluated over 100 entries from 20 countries to judge the submissions.

Winners of the awards will be announced during the World Public Relations Forum 2024 awards ceremony, scheduled for November 20 at the luxurious Merusaka Nusa Dua in Bali, Indonesia.

A youth group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State has commended President Bola Tinubu for reappointing Uba Maigari as Minister of State for Regional Development. The group, operating under the Taraba State APC Liberation Movement, also expressed its commitment to mobilizing support for the party in anticipation of the 2027 elections.

Idris Ayuba, the leader of the group, released a statement highlighting that the appointment of Taraba indigenes to significant federal positions underscores the APC’s dedication to the state. He noted, “The reappointment of H.E. Barr. Uba Maigari Ahmadu as Minister of State for Regional Development and the retention of Dr. Aisha Adamu as Managing Director of the Federal Medical Center Jalingo exemplify the president’s commitment to excellence.”

Additionally, Ayuba pointed out that the appointment of Dr. Mahmud Sanusi Mohammed as Managing Director of the Upper Benue Development Authority reflects the administration’s focus on leveraging local talent. He remarked, “These appointments reflect the present administration’s dedication to unity, progress, and empowerment, which has instilled hope among our members and the people of Taraba State.”

The group pledged its unwavering support for the federal government’s policies, emphasizing the recognition of Taraba State’s potential and the positive impact of these appointments on the region’s development.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is strategically positioned to secure a decisive victory in the upcoming governorship election on November 16, 2024. His remarks came during the formal inauguration of the Ondo State chapter of The Mandate Movement (TMM) in Akure on Sunday.

Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted the significant role of the Mandate Movement in promoting progressive politics across southwestern Nigeria. He stated, “TMM is one of the strongest political movements in Nigeria. When the chairman was speaking, I reflected on how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has elevated the progressive platform, becoming not only a leader of the Yoruba nation but also an African leader of repute.”

The governor emphasized his expectation of securing nothing less than 80% of the votes in the upcoming election, expressing confidence that the involvement and cooperation of the Mandate Movement would help achieve this goal.

Cardinal James Odunbaku, the national chairman of TMM, performed the official inauguration and outlined the group’s mandate to produce governors under the APC banner across the southwestern states. He expressed optimism about the growing strength of the progressive movement in Ondo, Lagos, Ogun, and Ekiti states, stating, “I want to say, without any doubt, that Osun and Oyo states will soon join us, because the entire southwest must be progressive as it has always been.”

Odunbaku reiterated that the goal for Ondo state is to deliver overwhelming votes for the APC to continue reaping the benefits of democracy. In his address, Ondo State APC chairman Engr. Ade Adetimehin, represented by Aro Bernard, thanked the national chairman for enhancing the Mandate Movement’s capacity to achieve optimal results.

Furthermore, the Ondo State chairman of TMM, Omofunmilewa Adejombo, assured the national chairman of effective coordination within the Ondo chapter to lead the APC to victory in November.

Renowned media entrepreneur and journalist Kikelomo Atanda Owo Abati has launched her highly anticipated third book, Encounters: Governance, Policy, & Society. This new publication features insightful conversations with some of Nigeria’s most influential figures, including Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Allen Onyema, Reuben Abati, Chude Jideonwo, Babajide Otitoju, Azubike Osumili, Ajuri Ngelale, and many others.

Following the success of her first book, Unbroken, which details her personal journey and resilience through a challenging marriage, Encounters dives into critical discussions surrounding governance, policy challenges, and societal progress in Nigeria. The book reflects Atanda-Owo’s commitment to enriching national discourse through in-depth interviews with thought leaders shaping the future of the nation.

Encounters: Governance, Policy, & Society captures the essence of leadership and policy-making, providing readers with a unique perspective on Nigeria’s future. With her extensive professional background in telecommunications, media, journalism, and strategic communications, Kikelomo Atanda-Owo, affectionately known as “Kiki,” has crafted a compelling narrative for those interested in governance, policy, and societal development.

As the founder and convener of the contemporary live talk show Real Talk With Kike on Silverbird and Inspiration 92.3 FM, Atanda-Owo has established herself as a leading voice in the communications industry. She is also the CEO of Z-Edge Limited, which offers corporate training, event management, procurement, and integrated marketing communications services. Her strategic leadership has positioned Z-Edge as a frontrunner in Nigeria’s service industry.

Beyond her professional achievements, Atanda-Owo advocates for single mothers and widows through her Kike Hub Foundation, demonstrating her commitment to uplifting underserved communities. Her collaborative efforts with industry giants like MTN Nigeria and Stanbic IBTC have made significant impacts, including orchestrating the “MTN Football Scholar” program, which has provided educational and employment opportunities for talented Nigerian youth in the U.S. with $3 million in funding over three years.

Recognized as one of the top 15 most powerful women journalists in Nigeria by WiJAfrica in 2023 and 2024, Kikelomo Atanda-Owo holds a bachelor’s degree in communications, an MSc from Kingston University, and an MBA from the University of South Wales. She continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through her work in media, communications, and strategic consultancy.

Encounters: Governance, Policy, & Society is now available on platforms like Amazon, iBooks, Rakuten Kobo, and other e-book retailers.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, a pastor and church founder, adopts a meticulous and businesslike approach to governance, mirroring his successful management of thriving enterprises. Known for his prudence and frugality, Eno carefully tracks all income and expenditures, aiming to identify areas for savings and investment while preventing financial leakages for the benefit of all citizens.

From the outset of his administration, Eno expressed his intention to run the government with a private sector mindset, aiming to usher Akwa Ibom into a prosperous era. Observers are not surprised by his hands-on leadership style, which reflects his commitment to improving the state’s socio-economic landscape.

During the 2023 governorship campaign, Eno publicly challenged external statistical agencies regarding the state’s unemployment and poverty figures. He pledged to conduct a thorough assessment of accurate statistics for the state, not only for public awareness but also to help his administration identify and exploit “low hanging fruits” for development. True to his word, he swiftly took action after assuming office.

In August 2023, just three months into his tenure, Eno introduced an executive bill to establish the Akwa Ibom Bureau of Statistics. By December of that year, the bill had become law, underscoring the governor’s commitment to ensuring that timely and reliable statistics drive the state’s development initiatives. Eno emphasized the critical role of accurate data in enhancing service delivery, transparency, and good governance, which are essential for the success of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.

On October 21, 2024, Eno further demonstrated his commitment to improving employment opportunities for youths in the state by launching the ARISE YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PORTAL. This innovative online platform aims to create a comprehensive database of unemployed youths and connect them with job creators both within Akwa Ibom and beyond.

Dr. Frank Ekpenyong, the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on ICT, elaborated on the portal’s advantages, showcasing its functionalities to an audience of enthusiastic youths and government officials. This initiative not only aims to benefit the government and the unemployed but also supports private sector operators in Akwa Ibom State, ultimately fostering economic growth and job creation.

Governor Umo Eno’s businesslike approach, combined with his commitment to accurate data and youth empowerment, positions Akwa Ibom State on a path towards sustainable development and prosperity.

The direct descendants of Sir Ededuna Walter Obaseki have extended their heartfelt congratulations to the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II CFR, on his 8th coronation anniversary and birthday, celebrated recently with a thanksgiving service at the Holy Arousa Church.

In a statement issued by Mercy Ededuna Obaseki on behalf of the family, they acknowledged the numerous innovations and people-oriented programs the Benin monarch has introduced since his ascension in 2016, noting his significant contributions to fostering peace and prosperity in the kingdom.

The statement reads: “Long may you reign, our Great King. May God give you more wisdom and strength to continue to pilot the affairs of the Great Benin Kingdom.”

The family further highlighted the Oba’s exemplary leadership qualities demonstrated during his tenure as a foreign diplomat and ambassador of Nigeria to Angola, Italy, and Sweden, with accreditations to Norway, Denmark, and the Republic of Finland.

Additionally, the statement included a request for the Oba’s support in facilitating the family’s claims to the entitlements of their patriarch, who served in the British Merchant Navy and earned several medals and awards.

“We also want you, our Royal Father, to use your voice to help us make our demands from the British Government so that they will speedily grant our wish for our father’s entitlements to be paid to us,” the statement concluded.

Businesses and daily activities across Nigeria have come to a standstill due to prolonged power outages, leading to significant economic losses and hardships for citizens. Data from the Nigerian Electricity System Operator revealed that as of 6 AM yesterday, the nation’s electricity generation stood at a mere 3,752.37 megawatts (MW), which is grossly inadequate for the needs of households and businesses.

Many Nigerians are also struggling to afford alternative energy sources, with petrol and diesel prices exceeding N1,000 per litre. As a result, large portions of the country remain in darkness, having experienced the eighth national grid collapse this year alone.

Dr. Chinyere Almona, the Director-General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), expressed deep concern over the frequency of grid collapses. She noted, “This year alone, we have recorded eight grid failures, with three occurring within a single week. The worsening performance of the national grid is a significant issue for the business community.”

Similarly, Dele Oye, President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), highlighted the detrimental impact of these outages on the economy. He stated, “The recent spate of national grid collapses has raised significant concerns for our economy and the operational viability of businesses across the country. With the grid failing multiple times in recent months, businesses have been grappling with erratic power supply, disrupting production lines, inflating operational costs, and ultimately affecting profitability.”

The ongoing power crisis has been exacerbated by vandalism in various regions, particularly in Northern Nigeria, which has been without power supply for over a week. The disruption was specifically attributed to the vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, necessitating security measures for maintenance work to restore service.

As the nation grapples with this persistent power crisis, the implications for economic activity and citizen welfare continue to deepen, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to the ongoing energy challenges.

The Enugu State government has condemned the illegal sit-at-home order declared by faceless non-state actors in response to the unfortunate death of popular Ogene musician Okezie Mba, also known as Igbo Jah. In a statement, the government described those behind the order as criminals and opportunists who do not have the well-being of Ndi Enugu or Ndi Igbo at heart.

The government reassured citizens that it, along with security agencies, has taken decisive measures to ensure that anyone responsible for the musician’s death is held accountable. It labeled the promoters of the sit-at-home order as enemies of both Enugu State and the Igbo nation.

Citizens were urged to disregard the illegal directive and continue their daily activities, with assurances that the government will utilize all resources available to protect the lives and property of its people. The alleged perpetrators of the musician’s death are reportedly already in custody for interrogation and prosecution.

Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), stated, “Our attention has been drawn to reports on social media regarding the sit-at-home declaration for Tuesday, October 29, 2024, ostensibly to protest the killing of Okezie Mba by a police officer on Friday.”

The government condemned the killing, calling it “abominable” and “unacceptable,” reaffirming its commitment to investigating the incident thoroughly and ensuring justice is served. Governor Peter Mbah has prioritized the investigation, with the identified suspect already in custody.

On Sunday morning, a government delegation led by the SSG and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr Victor Udeh, visited the bereaved family to express condolences and reiterate the government’s commitment to justice.

The Enugu State government expressed no surprise that criminal elements seek to exploit this unfortunate situation to incite chaos and disrupt economic activities in the state. It emphasized that such opportunists do not reflect the values of a community known for its enterprise, hard work, and creativity.

The statement concluded, “These individuals cannot be our true representatives. They do not embody the values we cherish. They are simply criminals and enemies of Ndi Igbo, aiming to destabilize the region.”

Maternal health remains one of the most pressing global health challenges, characterized by stark disparities between high-income and low- to middle-income countries. Despite advancements, maternal mortality rates are unacceptably high, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Each day, over 800 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, with 94% of these deaths occurring in low-resource settings. The majority of maternal deaths could be averted with access to quality healthcare, underscoring the urgent need for global reforms to ensure equitable access to maternal healthcare.

The Global Maternal Health Crisis

Since the early 2000s, maternal mortality rates have decreased by almost 38% globally, primarily due to international initiatives and the expansion of healthcare services. However, this progress has been uneven, with significant disparities persisting between high-income countries and their low- and middle-income counterparts. Maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia remain alarmingly high—462 deaths per 100,000 live births in sub-Saharan Africa compared to just 11 per 100,000 in high-income countries. This disparity highlights the failure to provide consistent and equitable maternal care worldwide.

The primary causes of maternal deaths are often preventable and include severe bleeding (mostly after childbirth), infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy (pre-eclampsia and eclampsia), complications from delivery, and unsafe abortion practices. For every woman who dies from pregnancy-related complications, many more suffer long-term severe consequences such as fistulas, infertility, and psychological trauma. These outcomes are particularly prevalent in regions where women lack access to quality prenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and emergency obstetric services.

The root causes of maternal health disparities are complex and multifaceted. Socioeconomic inequities, including poverty and limited access to education, profoundly impact maternal health outcomes, while systemic issues in healthcare delivery—such as the lack of trained healthcare professionals, inadequate infrastructure, and supply chain problems—exacerbate these challenges. Furthermore, in many cultures, gender inequalities limit women’s access to healthcare services, often depriving them of the agency to seek the care they need.

Global Lessons in Maternal Health Reform

To address these challenges, global health leaders must learn from successful interventions that have significantly improved maternal health outcomes in resource-constrained settings. Jaiyeola Abiose Ayanbadejo’s work with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Nigeria exemplifies effective maternal health reform models in low-resource environments. Her focus on capacity building, community engagement, and data-driven evaluations offers critical insights into sustainably improving maternal health services, even in the most underserved regions.

In Nigeria, where maternal mortality remains among the highest in the world, Jaiyeola spearheaded efforts to strengthen maternal and reproductive healthcare by building local capacity for monitoring and evaluating health programs. Her approach integrated maternal care into community-based health services, ensuring that even women in remote areas had access to essential maternal care services. By working directly with local communities, healthcare workers, and policymakers, her initiatives led to better-designed programs that addressed the specific needs of the population.

One key lesson from Jaiyeola’s work is the importance of data in driving sustainable improvements in healthcare. By collecting and analyzing health data, she identified critical gaps in healthcare delivery, optimized resource allocation, and tailored interventions to the specific needs of different communities. This evidence-based approach is essential to ensure that healthcare programs are both effective and efficient, particularly in resource-constrained settings where every dollar must be carefully spent.

Moreover, Jaiyeola’s emphasis on capacity building ensures sustainable healthcare improvements. By training local healthcare workers and establishing the infrastructure needed to deliver quality care, her programs not only improved maternal health outcomes in the short term but also equipped communities to maintain these improvements over the long term. This model of healthcare reform—focusing on community-based care, data-driven interventions, and sustainable capacity building—can be applied across countries facing similar challenges in maternal healthcare.

Community Engagement and Culturally Competent Care

The provision of culturally competent care is critical to improving maternal health outcomes, particularly in ethnically diverse and low-resource settings. Cultural norms and practices surrounding childbirth can vary widely, and healthcare programs that fail to consider these differences often struggle to gain the trust of the communities they aim to serve. Jaiyeola Abiose Ayanbadejo’s work illustrates the importance of directly engaging communities and understanding their specific cultural needs.

In Nigeria, Jaiyeola worked closely with community leaders and local healthcare providers to ensure that maternal health services were culturally sensitive and adapted to the local context. For instance, in some communities, women were reluctant to seek care from male healthcare providers due to cultural or religious norms. By training female healthcare workers and involving local leaders in health program design, Jaiyeola helped overcome these barriers, ensuring that women felt comfortable accessing maternal health services.

Addressing the global maternal health crisis requires concerted efforts to improve healthcare systems, engage communities, and ensure culturally competent care. By learning from successful models and focusing on sustainable reforms, the global health community can make significant strides in reducing maternal mortality and improving health outcomes for women worldwide. The work of advocates like Jaiyeola Abiose Ayanbadejo demonstrates that with the right strategies and commitment, equitable maternal healthcare can be a reality for all women, regardless of their circumstances.

General Yakubu Dan-Yumma Gowon (PhD, GCFR), one of Nigeria’s revered leaders, marked his 90th birthday on Saturday, October 19, 2024, with heartfelt tributes from a wide array of distinguished Nigerians, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and current President Bola Tinubu. Gowon, synonymous with the “One Nigeria” slogan, is celebrated for his pivotal role in leading the nation through a tumultuous period during the Nigerian Civil War.

Ascending to leadership at the young age of 33, Gowon guided Nigeria through a 30-month brutal civil war, ultimately preserving the nation’s unity with his memorable “No Victor, No Vanquished” declaration. This approach facilitated the reintegration of the former Biafrans without further bloodshed, a significant achievement given the violence surrounding the earlier coups that brought him to power in 1966.

During his tenure, Gowon presided over Nigeria’s oil boom, strategically utilizing the influx of revenue to develop essential national infrastructure and enhance worker welfare through the notable Udoji Award. Notably, he remains the only military ruler in Nigeria who did not amass personal wealth during his nine years in power.

Gowon was known for his adherence to due process and planned development—principles that have since been overshadowed by a culture of immediacy adopted by his successors. However, his legacy is not without criticism. He faced backlash for allowing military commanders to commit war crimes during the civil conflict, failing to fully implement his Reconciliation, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation programs, and inadvertently contributing to the incomplete reintegration of the Igbo people, which has fueled calls for Biafran independence in the South-East.

Gowon’s promise to return Nigeria to civilian rule by 1975 remained unfulfilled, leading to his eventual ouster—a development welcomed by many. After a prolonged exile, he received a presidential pardon and returned to Nigeria, where he launched the “Nigeria Prays” initiative, promoting reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

At the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank in Washington, D.C., IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized the strain high prices are placing on families globally. Speaking at the Global Policy Agenda 2024 briefing, she described the global economy as “stuck in a slow growth and high debt trajectory,” which has left many people feeling uncertain about their economic futures despite positive macroeconomic indicators like reduced inflation.

Georgieva noted that, while central banks’ policies have helped curb inflation, and global supply chains have improved, families worldwide continue to struggle with high costs. The IMF projects global growth at 3.2% for 2024, slowing further to 3.1% annually over the next five years.

The Global Policy Agenda 2024 report highlighted additional risks to economic stability, including record-high public debt levels projected to reach nearly 100% of global GDP by 2030, alongside growing economic fragmentation that could disrupt international economic cooperation. However, emerging opportunities like the green transition, demographic shifts, and digitalization, including artificial intelligence, offer potential growth avenues, provided policies address the underlying challenges.

To foster sustainable growth, the IMF recommends targeted monetary and fiscal policies focused on lowering inflation, rebuilding economic buffers, and ensuring debt sustainability.

The ongoing legal tussle between the Nigerian states and the federal government over the establishment and functioning of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) highlights longstanding tensions around Nigeria’s federal structure, constitutional limits, and power dynamics. Initially spurred by Kogi State’s litigation questioning the EFCC’s establishment, several other states have joined the suit, bringing broader attention to federal overreach and the potential misuse of anti-corruption agencies as political tools.

The case hinges on whether the federal government followed constitutional procedures when establishing the EFCC in 2004. The states argue that the EFCC’s structure and operations stray from the federalist principles intended by Nigeria’s founding framework, where states maintain significant autonomy. Concerns are compounded by the EFCC’s leadership structure, which places significant power in the hands of the President to appoint the agency’s head, leaving room for perceived partiality in corruption investigations.

The anti-corruption agency has, at times, appeared selective, with politically exposed individuals and those affiliated with the federal administration often avoiding rigorous scrutiny. This discrepancy undermines the agency’s credibility and perpetuates a narrative of selective justice, with federal law enforcement heavily policing state officials but rarely questioning central government figures. The Attorney General of the Federation’s warning that the Supreme Court’s support for the states could be perceived as condoning corruption adds a contentious angle. This kind of rhetoric risks compromising the judiciary’s independence, which is pivotal for upholding the rule of law.

This case underscores the necessity of balancing power across Nigeria’s tiers of government to avoid unchecked authority at the federal level. It calls for a more transparent and equitable anti-corruption framework that serves the public rather than political interests. Should the Supreme Court side with the states, it would not only challenge the current configuration of the EFCC but also reinforce the broader principle that Nigeria’s states are not mere subordinates to the federal government. The verdict could potentially pave the way for reform, fostering a more robust federalism that aligns with the intent of Nigeria’s constitution and benefits the nation as a whole.