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Migration: Nigerian govt woos 12,400 doctors to return home

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Nigeria's govt woos 12,400 migrant doctors to return home

The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has on August 12, 2024, signed the National Policy on Healthcare Workforce Migration to address the constant relocation of doctors in Nigeria.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, disclosed this on his X handle on August 13, 2024.

The policy aims to woo an estimated number of 12,400 Nigerian trained doctors practicing abroad to return home.

Prof. Pate also made an appearance on Channels TV where he said that the United Kingdom alone has 67% of Nigerian trained doctors practicing in their country.

The minister stated that the policy acknowledges the importance of work-life balance.

It includes provisions for regular health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, particularly for younger doctors.

Prof. Muhammad Pate’s speech

Prof. Pate said: “These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction.

“The governance of this policy will be overseen by the National Human Resources for Health Program (NHRHP) within, in collaboration with state governments.

“The recruitment countries, that recruit our professionals, should they not have some responsibilities to help us expand the training?

“Because the strain of health workers’ migration is continuous; it’s not going to stop tomorrow.

“The UK will need Nigerian doctors; 67 per cent of our doctors go to the United Kingdom and 25 per cent of the NHIS workforce is Nigerian.

“Nigerians are very vibrant, very entrepreneurial, and very capable wherever they are.

“If Nigerians hold back from the UK, for instance, the NHS will struggle to provide the services that many Nigerians are going there to get,” the minister said.

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Pate also said that the policy signed by the president will serve as a detailed master plan to curb the continuous out-flux of health workers in Nigeria.

Health workers, meanwhile, have demanded the blueprint and the implementation plan of the policy.

The National Policy

The health minister at the press release discloses further:

“This afternoon, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in-council, approved a landmark policy set to transform healthcare human resource management in Nigeria.

“The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration addresses the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s health human resources.

“As the AU Champion for Human Resources for Health and Community Health Delivery Partnership, Mr President’s commitment to a resilient and robust healthcare system is powerfully reflected in this forward-looking policy.

“This policy is more than just a response to the ongoing exodus of healthcare professionals; it’s a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse health worker migration.

“It envisions a thriving workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and optimally utilised to meet the healthcare needs of all Nigerians.”

“By fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and stability, the policy aims to retain top talent within Nigeria.

“In an increasingly digital world, integrating advanced health technologies is essential.

“The policy’s focus on digital health infrastructure—including electronic medical records, telehealth, and a comprehensive health workforce registry—marks a significant step towards a more efficient, data-driven health system.

“These innovations will streamline healthcare delivery and enhance the equitable distribution of health workers, ensuring access to quality care for all Nigerians.

“Capacity building is at the heart of this policy.

“It recognizes the importance of continuous professional development, with strategic partnerships and opportunities for international training to equip our healthcare…

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Why is there incessant migration in Nigeria?

Nigerians migrate for a variety of complex and interconnected reasons. Some of the main factors include:

 Economic opportunities:

Many Nigerians seek better job prospects, higher wages, and improved living standards abroad.

Education:

Some migrate to access quality education, scholarships, or specialized training not readily available in Nigeria.

Political instability and insecurity:

Ongoing conflict, terrorism, and political uncertainty drive some Nigerians to seek safer environments.

Environmental factors:

Climate change, desertification, and resource depletion contribute to migration from affected areas.

Social and family ties:

Reuniting with family members or joining existing diaspora communities is a significant draw.

Healthcare:

Access to better medical facilities and specialized treatment attracts some migrants.

Human rights and freedom:

Some individuals flee persecution, discrimination, or restrictive environments.

Steps to curb Nigeria’s incessant migration

Addressing the complex issue of Nigerian migration requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some potential solutions:

Economic development and job creation:

Investing in Nigeria’s economy, infrastructure, and industries to create employment opportunities and improve living standards.

Education and skills training:

Enhancing the quality of education and vocational training to equip Nigerians with competitive skills.

Political stability and governance:

Promoting good governance, reducing corruption, and ensuring political inclusivity to foster a sense of belonging.

Security and conflict resolution:

Addressing insecurity, terrorism, and communal conflicts through effective policing, dialogue, and community engagement.

Environmental sustainability:

Implementing initiatives to mitigate climate change, desertification, and resource depletion.

Social and economic empowerment:

Supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and social programs to uplift marginalized communities.

Diaspora engagement:

Encouraging Nigerians abroad to contribute to national development through investments, skills transfer, and mentorship.

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Policy reforms:

Reviewing and refining migration policies to address push factors and provide opportunities for circular migration.

International cooperation:

Collaborating with destination countries to address the root causes of migration and promote mutually beneficial solutions.

Data-driven approaches:

Using research and data to understand migration dynamics and inform evidence-based policies.

Implementing these solutions requires a collaborative effort from Nigeria’s government, private sector, civil society, and international partners to address the complex drivers of migration in Nigeria.

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Analysis

Why Penis Size Does Not Affect Performance, Fertility — Experts

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For countless men, penis size stirs deep anxiety fed by social media, locker-room banter, and pressure from adult content.

But sex experts and urologists agree: size rarely determines sexual function or fertility.

In a revealing conversation with PUNCH Healthwise, clinical sexologist Cecilia Agu and consultant urologist Dr. Gabriel Ogah broke down the myths emphasizing emotional connection, overall health, and sperm quality as far more meaningful indicators of sexual well-being.

Sexual Satisfaction Lies Beyond Size

Agu, who specializes in human sexology, has heard the insecurities countless times. Yet she insists that the fixation on size overshadows what truly matters in intimate relationships.

“Women value intimacy, chemistry, and creativity not centimeters,” she explained, her tone both compassionate and pragmatic.

“In most cases, size doesn’t determine performance or biological capacity. Only rare, clinically significant conditions impact size.”

She points to societal myths that equate larger size with virility.

“Historic portrayals in art and literature, and today’s media, amplify stereotypes. Pornography exaggerates, turning a normal variation into unreasonable expectations.”

Agu also cautioned against the booming market selling “enhancement” remedies.

“That industry profits off insecurity peddling pills, gadgets, and herbal supplements with no proven benefit.

The real dilemma lies in emotional weariness, not physical deficiency.”

She acknowledged true medical conditions like micropenis, often linked to hormonal or genetic causes but emphasized their rarity.

“Anyone worried about hormonal imbalances or developmental issues should seek professional evaluation,” she advised.

“Fertility Is Unrelated to Size” Dr. Gabriel Ogah

Dr. Ogah, a respected urologist, offered a no-nonsense medical perspective on the fertility question.

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“A small penis doesn’t reduce a man’s ability to impregnate a woman,” he stated firmly.

“If sperm is healthy and ejaculation occurs, fertilization can happen.”

He added that many young men consult him out of anxiety sparked by unrealistic comparisons.

“Almost always, their size falls within healthy norms. It’s undue stress, fueled by exposure to distorted media portrayals.”

Dr. Ogah also debunked the idea that older men can “restore” diminishing function through enhancement products.

“As absurd as it sounds, many try. But no pill or serum can permanently alter anatomy.

These are myths masquerading as solutions.”

So What Truly Matters?

Both experts agree: prioritizing overall health, emotional intimacy, and stress-free communication far outweighs anxiety over size.

Agu stressed that sex is about connection, not metrics. “Being nervous about measurements sets couples up for dissatisfaction.

But when you focus on pleasure, emotional safety, and experimentation, the experience transforms.”

Dr. Ogah echoed this, emphasizing regular health check-ups. “Good cardiovascular health, balanced hormones, and mental well-being are key. Size doesn’t affect that.”

Dispelling the Myths, Sustaining the Confidence

As myths dissolve under scientific clarity, a bigger concern emerges: how do we nurture a culture free of body shaming? Agu proposed educational steps.

“We should teach young people that anatomy varies. Performance is multi-dimensional. Communication trumps comparison every time.”

Dr. Ogah endorsed that sentiment. “Let’s shift the narrative. Appreciate function over form. Listen to your body, and care for it through healthy living.”

Performance Isn’t About Inches

Size remains largely irrelevant when partners are emotionally in sync, focused on connection, and attuned to shared pleasure.

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Fertility hinges on sperm health not size.

Medical concerns like micropenis are rare, but deserve medical evaluation.

Media, culture, and marketing distort reality. Let’s counter that with facts.

Confidence and sexual well-being stem from health, honesty, and intimacy not obsession with size.

In the end, as Agu beautifully summed up, “It’s not the size it’s how you share it.” That truth holds far more value than any number on a measuring tape.

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Health

Police Arrest Fake Doctor as Woman Dies During Abortion

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Detectives from the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested a man posing as a medical doctor following the death of a 35-year-old woman, Blessing Sunday Etim, during an alleged illegal abortion.

The suspect, identified as Sunday Okon Akpan, reportedly owns and operates the Full Life Medical Centre (FLMC) in Ikot Obio Odongo, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Timfon John, the spokesperson for the Akwa Ibom Police Command, revealed that police launched a search for the victim after receiving a distress call from her mother.

DSP John stated that operatives acted quickly following the report, which indicated that Blessing had gone to work at the FLMC and never returned.

According to police reports, the suspect attempted to secretly dispose of the victim’s body in her room.

A co-tenant, who witnessed the act, raised an alarm, forcing the suspect to abandon the corpse and flee the scene.

Police quickly arrived at the scene, where detectives discovered a premature foetus, confirming the occurrence of an illegal abortion.

Police traced and arrested Sunday Okon Akpan, a resident of Afaha Offiong village, Nsit Ibom LGA.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect is not a licensed medical doctor or nurse but a community health practitioner who allegedly used his clinic to perform illegal medical procedures, including abortions.

The health centre has since been found abandoned.

DSP John confirmed that the victim’s body has been deposited at a morgue for preservation and autopsy, while investigations continue to uncover more details surrounding the incident.

She also promised to update the public as the probe progresses.

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This shocking incident highlights the dangers of unlicensed medical practitioners operating clinics and offering illegal procedures.

Police authorities are warning residents to verify the credentials of anyone offering medical services and to report suspicious activities to prevent similar tragedies.

As the investigation unfolds, Akwa Ibom police have vowed to ensure that justice is served, and the public remains safe from unqualified medical practitioners operating in the state.

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Health

NAFDAC Raises Alarm as Fake Cowbell Milk Floods Nigerian Markets

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised alarm over the circulation of fake Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets in Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Friday, August 22, 2025, the agency explained that the counterfeit milk is packaged to look like the discontinued Cowbell “Our Milk,” but it is unauthorised and unsafe for consumption.

Fake cowbell milk.

NAFDAC clarified that Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the authentic manufacturer, stopped producing Cowbell “Our Milk” in September 2023.

The product was replaced with Cowbell “Our Creamy Goodness.” Despite this, fake versions of the old product have found their way into Nigerian markets.

Picture of Fake cowbell milk.

Picture of Fake cowbell milk.

The counterfeit sachets bear the brand name, NAFDAC registration number, and familiar packaging design, making them difficult for unsuspecting buyers to identify as fake.

Health Dangers of Fake Cowbell Milk

NAFDAC warned that the consumption of these counterfeit products poses serious health risks.

Fake milk could contain toxic chemicals, harmful additives, or diluted ingredients that endanger human health.

Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are the most vulnerable. Possible dangers include:

  • Foodborne illnesses
  • Allergic reactions
  • Organ damage
  • Long-term health complications
  • In extreme cases, death

Counterfeit Product Details

  1. Product Name: Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachet
  2. Purported Manufacturer: Promasidor Nigeria Ltd
  3. Production Date: 04/2025
  4. Expiry Date: 12/2028

Picture of original cowbell milk.

NAFDAC Issues Strong Warning

The agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing the counterfeit milk.

Healthcare professionals, distributors, and consumers have been advised to report suspicious sales of substandard or fake products immediately.

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Reports can be made through:

The nearest NAFDAC office

Toll-free line: 0800-162-3322

Email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng

NAFDAC also called on traders and retailers to stop selling the fake sachets.

The agency assured the public that strict enforcement measures are being taken to remove the counterfeit products from circulation.

This is not the first time Nigerians have faced risks from fake food and beverages.

Experts warn that counterfeit consumables are becoming more sophisticated, often making them difficult to spot.

Consumers are advised to always check product details, expiry dates, and packaging changes announced by manufacturers.

By highlighting the dangers and raising awareness, NAFDAC says it hopes to protect Nigerians from avoidable health crises linked to fake milk products

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Health

Why Men Who Desire Healthy Children Should Marry Before 40

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Men planning to father children have been strongly advised to marry and start a family before turning 40.

Medical experts warn that delayed fatherhood increases the risk of weak sperm and genetic disorders in children.

In an exclusive interview with PUNCH Healthwise, the President of the Nigerian Association of Urological Surgeons, Professor Nuhu Dakum, explained that male fertility sharply declines with age.

He stressed that sperm quality begins to deteriorate after 40, leaving children more vulnerable to inherited health conditions.

According to him, “Sperm quality reduces with age. The count, motility, and morphology are all affected. There is also an increase in DNA damage, which predisposes babies to genetic diseases.”

Why Men Over 40 Face Higher Risks

Professor Dakum revealed that several factors contribute to poor sperm quality as men grow older.

These include natural biological changes, smoking, alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, and exposure to toxins at work or in the environment.

He emphasized that while sperm decline can vary from man to man, the drop becomes significant around 40.

This means men who delay starting families until middle age could struggle with infertility and pass on genetic risks.

The concern gained fresh attention after a viral post on X (formerly Twitter) sparked a heated debate.

The post claimed that older men produce weak sperm that increases the chances of children developing genetic mutations such as autism, Down syndrome, schizophrenia, and dwarfism.

Medical experts say these claims have some truth.

The Texas Fertility Centre has confirmed that sperm quality and quantity decline with age, leading to age-related male infertility.

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Similarly, Healthline, a trusted medical portal, reports that men over 50 experience a significant drop in sperm quality, with sperm count and unhealthy lifestyle habits playing key roles in the decline.

Healthy Living Can Improve Sperm Strength

Professor Dakum, however, clarified that older men can still father healthy children if they maintain good sperm health.

He stressed that healthy living benefits both general well-being and sperm quality.

He said, “There may not be much to prevent if the man is already old, but living healthy improves general health and sperm health.

Options like embryo genetic selection or sperm DNA testing can reduce risks, though these are costly and not widely available. Donor sperm is also an option for couples facing such challenges.”

What This Means for Nigerian Men

The warning is clear: delaying fatherhood comes with health risks for both fathers and children.

Men who prioritize career or wealth before family may unknowingly endanger their future children’s health.

Medical experts now urge Nigerian men to plan early, get married before 40, and adopt a healthier lifestyle to protect their fertility.

With infertility cases rising in Nigeria, the advice serves as a wake-up call.

Alcohol consumption, smoking, poor diets, and late marriages are becoming common among Nigerian men. But experts insist that fertility should not be left to chance.

Starting a family earlier in life, avoiding harmful habits, eating well, and reducing exposure to toxins remain the most effective ways to preserve fertility.

For men who are already older, fertility specialists recommend medical consultations, sperm analysis, and lifestyle changes.

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Genetic testing may also help reduce risks when planning for children.

Conclusion

Professor Dakum’s advice highlights an often-overlooked issue in male health. Sperm quality is not permanent, and time works against men just as it does against women.

Nigerian men now face a crucial decision: delay marriage and risk weak sperm, or act early and secure a healthier future for their children.

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Africa

FULL LIST: Federal Hospitals With Reduced Dialysis Costs In Nigeria

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Nigeria's public debt hit record N149.3trillion

President Bola Tinubu has approved a major reduction in the cost of kidney dialysis in federal hospitals. The price has dropped from ₦50,000 to ₦12,000.

This move comes as part of his administration’s push to make healthcare more affordable for ordinary Nigerians.

The announcement came on Monday through Daniel Bwala, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Information.

He revealed the development in a post on his official X, formerly Twitter handle.

According to him, the subsidy already covers several federal medical centres and teaching hospitals across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Bwala explained that this policy has started running in major health institutions, ensuring that kidney patients now pay less for treatment.

He also noted that more hospitals will join the scheme before the year ends, giving broader access to citizens.

Currently, patients can access the reduced dialysis service at these hospitals:

1. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute-Metta, Lagos

2. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja

3. University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State

4. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, Imo State

5. University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Maiduguri, Borno State

6. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun State

7. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos

8. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Azare, Bauchi State

9. University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State

10. University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar, Cross River State.

More hospitals will be added as the program expands, Bwala confirmed. He stressed that Tinubu’s decision reflects his promise to put citizens’ welfare first.

By cutting costs, the government wants to ease the financial pain that families face while battling chronic illnesses.

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Furthermore, this step is not an isolated policy. It fits into the Tinubu administration’s wider healthcare reforms.

Alongside dialysis subsidies, the government is rolling out oncology and diagnostic facilities to improve cancer and disease detection.

In addition, about 120,000 frontline health workers will undergo retraining to boost the quality of care across the country.

The President has also redesigned the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) to make primary healthcare more accessible in rural and urban areas.

Another key reform is the approval of free Caesarean sections for vulnerable pregnant women in federal hospitals, further showing the government’s focus on saving lives.

With these reforms, Tinubu aims to rebuild trust in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The reduction in dialysis cost, in particular, gives hope to thousands of kidney patients who have long struggled with overwhelming medical bills.

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