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Nigeria loses $2bn annually to medical tourism — FG

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The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, has revealed that Nigeria loses approximately $2 billion annually to medical tourism. He emphasised the urgent need for the country to build health sovereignty and reduce reliance on foreign medical care.

Represented by the Chief Medical Director of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Professor Wasiu Adeyemo, Pate made the statement during the commissioning of Avon Medical Centre, a newly established 50-bed speciality hospital in Surulere, Lagos.

He attributed the staggering loss to a lack of public confidence in the local healthcare system and limited access to quality medical services. Despite this, Pate expressed optimism that facilities like Avon Medical Centre could help reverse the trend.

He noted that the government is committed to revitalising the health sector through initiatives such as the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the 2024–2027 Health Sector Strategic Blueprint.

 “This is not just about stopping medical tourism. It is about building health sovereignty—the ability of a country to care for its people, and to develop its institutions, talent, and innovation,” Pate stated.

“The government is ready to co-create pathways for private-sector engagement, whether through health insurance expansion, regulatory reform, or partnerships with national health programmes. We welcome Avon Medical and all new private providers as partners in building a healthier, safer, and more equitable Nigeria.”
Also speaking at the event, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, stressing that the government alone cannot address the challenges in healthcare delivery.

“We must create an enabling environment for private equity and investment to thrive,” he said. “Avon Medical has etched its name in the sands of time in this industry—not only in Lagos but across Nigeria.”

In her remarks, Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited, Awele Elumelu, highlighted the pressures on Nigeria’s healthcare system caused by a shortage of doctors, hospital beds, and essential equipment.

“In 2009, we took the bold step to make world-class healthcare accessible and affordable for all—not just the privileged few. That decision birthed Avon Medical and Avon HMO,” she said. “Africa carries over 20 percent of the global disease burden, yet has only one percent of healthcare resources

“What we are building is a healthcare system that leaves no one behind. We believe in Afri-capitalism—the idea that the private sector has a responsibility not just to generate profit but to create lasting impact.”

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Aliko Dangote Reacts to Reports that Donald Trump Is Unhappy With the Launch Of Dangote Refinery (Video)

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Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Refinery, has denied claims that U.S. President Donald Trump is displeased with the launch of the $20 billion refinery.

There were claims on social media suggesting that Trump’s recent threat to attack certain locations in Nigeria could be linked to Africa’s largest refinery.

Trump had threatened to strike terrorists targeting Christians at various locations in Nigeria, which led to the spread of various propaganda and social media reactions.

Addressing the press, Dangote said that the USA has been a major supplier of crude to the refinery, adding that the talk about Trump being angry over its establishment “does not hold water.”

“The US has been one of our major suppliers of crude, which is why when someone says Trump is not happy with our refinery, it’s not true,” he said.

“Trump is more than happy with our refinery, because on average for a year, we do not buy more than 100 million barrels from the US.”

Dangote also said Nigerians now have the option of buying high-quality, locally refined petrol at a cheaper price or opting for blended imported fuel at a higher cost.

Dangote stated that fuel importers could continue to incur losses while Nigerians enjoy more affordable petrol prices.

According to him, the availability of locally refined petrol gives consumers a clear choice between quality fuel sold at a lower rate and blended premium motor spirit (PMS) sold at higher prices by importers.

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Abia Unveils State-Owned Electric Bus Transport Scheme

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The Abia State Government has announced plans to roll out a state-owned electric bus transport scheme, marking a major step toward modern, clean and efficient public transportation in the state.

The initiative, part of the government’s broader urban renewal and green mobility agenda, is designed to ease traffic congestion, reduce transportation costs for residents, and cut carbon emissions. The electric buses will operate on key routes across major cities, including Umuahia and Aba, offering commuters a safer, quieter and more comfortable travel experience.

Governor Alex Otti has emphasized that the project reflects the administration’s commitment to sustainable development and improved quality of life for Abia residents. According to the government, a number of electric buses have already been procured, while supporting infrastructure such as charging stations and modern bus terminals is being developed to ensure smooth operations.

Beyond environmental benefits, the scheme is expected to create jobs, improve urban mobility, and set a new standard for public transportation management in the state. Officials say the buses will be professionally managed under a state-owned structure to ensure efficiency, affordability and long-term sustainability.

With this move, Abia State joins a growing number of forward-looking governments embracing clean energy solutions, reinforcing its position as a state committed to innovation, environmental responsibility and people centred governance.

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NIGERIA POLICE FORCE ANNOUNCES RESUMPTION OF ENFORCEMENT OF TINTED GLASS PERMIT

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The Nigeria Police Force wishes to inform the general public of the planned resumption of the enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit policy pending the final determination of the matter currently before the court. This decision follows a careful review of emerging security concerns and the need to ensure the safety of all citizens.

It is important to clarify that at no point did the court restrain the Nigeria Police Force from enforcing the provisions of the law regarding the use of tinted glass on vehicles. Nonetheless, in the spirit of responsibility, transparency, and public convenience, the Force suspended enforcement to allow motorists ample opportunity to regularise their documentation and complete the registration process without pressure.

Recent trends, however, reveal a disturbing rise in criminal activities perpetrated with the aid of vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass. Some individuals and organised criminal groups have exploited this gap to conceal their identities and facilitate crimes ranging from armed robbery to kidnapping and other violent crimes. In view of this, the Nigeria Police Force has found it both necessary and urgent to resume full enforcement as a proactive measure to safeguard our communities. Consequently, enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit will resume on 2nd January, 2026.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, assures the public that the renewed enforcement will be carried out with utmost professionalism, respect for the rights of citizens, and in accordance with extant laws. He adds that the Force remains committed to promoting public safety and upholding the rule of law while working collaboratively with all stakeholders to keep Nigeria secure.

Meanwhile, motorists who require the Tinted Glass Permit are encouraged to apply through the approved channels and ensure that their vehicles comply with legal procedures.

CSP FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.

15th December, 2025

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