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700,000 unintended pregnancies could occur in Nigeria in 2023. — UNDP

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700,000 unintended pregnancies could occur in Nigeria in 2023. — UNDP

NaijaNews reports that the challenge of funding family planning in the country may lead to increasing unwanted pregnancies and abortions, according to the United Nations Population Fund.

It made the statement at an event to mark the 2023 World Population Day organised by the National Population Commission in Abuja on Tuesday.

During a panel discussion titled ‘Dialogue on financing and investment in family planning: meeting the growing demand of Nigerian women’, Technical Specialist, Maternal & Reproductive Health”, UNFPA, Dr. Adeela Khan, said that the funding gap for family planning was widening, increasing from $25m in last year to $32m in 2023.

According to her, this funding gap would lead to 700,000 unintended pregnancies, which would further lead to 300,000 unplanned births and 300,000 unsafe abortions.

She said, “Family planning programme is largely dependent on funding, and that is dwindling funding. As far as 2022, there was a gap of $25m.

“This year, we are looking at a gap of $32m. What is very important about this gap is that if you are casting it, there will be 700,000 unintended pregnancies, which will result in approximately 300,000 unplanned births and 300,000 unsafe abortions.”

Khan, however, noted that the government had been making some efforts through policies, such as the National Policy for Population and Sustainable Development in 2022, and financial commitment to ensuring family planning.

Also speaking a public health practitioner, Dr. Gafar Alawode, said that the rising population in the country was alarming.

He added that the population was growing faster than the economy, which was detrimental.

The UNFPA Executive-Director, Dr. Natalia Kanem, who was represented by UNFPA Nigeria Acting Resident Representative, Ms. Erika Goldson, noted that 19 per cent of married women in Nigeria could not exercise their right to make decisions, especially regarding having children.

She further stressed the need for women to be empowered, adding that such empowerment would benefit human capital and inclusive economic growth.

She said, “Realising sexual and reproductive health and rights for all is the foundation for gender equality, dignity, and opportunity. Nevertheless, over 40 per cent of women around the world and 19 per cent of married women in Nigeria cannot exercise their right to make decisions as fundamental as whether or not to have children”.

In her remark at the event, the Special Adviser on Health to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Salma Anas, acknowledged the implications of the country’s population growth.

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Just In! Sam Larry In Police Custody Over Mohbad’s Death

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Just In! Sam Larry In Police Custody Over Mohbad's Death

 

In a surprise development, Naijanewsngr reports that socialite Sam Larry is under police custody in connection with the tragic death of artist Mohbad.

 

The Lagos Police Command confirmed the arrest and reported Sam Larry’s cooperation with their investigation.

 

The circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death remain unclear, causing a stir in the entertainment world. Updates are eagerly awaited as authorities continue their inquiry.

 

Stay tuned for more details as the investigation progresses.

 

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Govt, Labour Congress meeting ends in deadlock.

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Govt, Labour Congress meeting ends in deadlock.

Govt, Labour Congress meeting ends in deadlock.
Details of the meeting between the Federal Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have emerged.

The meeting ended in a deadlock on Monday.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, called the meeting, which failed to address any of the issues raised by the Union.

However, the minister expressed optimism that the issues raised by the Nigerian workers would be addressed.

He said the FG would resolve the issues before the deadline.

“We must also recognize the economic realities that confront us.

“As we address the concerns of our workforce, we must be mindful of striking a balance that promotes economic growth and secures sustainable progress for our nation.

“Today, I call upon each one of you to join hands in an open-minded and constructive dialogue, enabling us to bridge any gaps that may exist between the interests of workers and the ultimate goal of driving economic advancement,” he said.

NLC President Ajaero said: “In the ultimatum we gave and in the NEC resolution, the issue of NURTW was clearly stated, and at the time, the issue had not degenerated the way it is now. That was why we had to bring it along.

“On the other issues, you can see that there was no agreement on any; there is no CNG anywhere, and refineries are not working, nor gas.

“Nothing has been done on the issue of wage awards, cash transfers, or the ASUU issues. However, we believe that between now and the next few days, when the ultimatum expires, something will happen.”

Ajaero said there was no going back on the planned indefinite strike if no progress was made before the expiration of the union’s ultimatum.

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Breaking News: Dramatic Rescue as Fire Engulfs Lekki Shanty

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Breaking News: Dramatic Rescue as Fire Engulfs Lekki Shanty

In a heart-wrenching incident that unfolded earlier today, a shanty settlement in the upscale area of Lekki, Lagos, was engulfed in flames, leaving residents scrambling for safety and hope.

The fire, a relentless force of destruction, threatened to consume everything in its path, but amidst the chaos and despair, two lives were miraculously saved.

The Lekki shanty, like many informal settlements around the world, was a tightly-knit community where people, despite facing severe economic hardships, found a sense of belonging and resilience. However, this morning, their lives took an abrupt turn as plumes of thick, acrid smoke filled the sky, darkening the once-vibrant neighborhood.

The response from local authorities and good Samaritans was swift. Firefighters from the Lagos State Fire Service rushed to the scene, battling against the raging inferno.

Their courage and determination were on full display as they fought valiantly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further.

As they worked tirelessly, the streets echoed with the panicked cries and prayers of those who had lost everything.

 

READ ALSO: Ecobank Introduces “EPAC Studios” To Promote Africa’s Creative Industry

 

Amidst the chaos, the heroism of two individuals shone brightly. Mr. Ade, a middle-aged resident of the shanty, emerged as a true savior.

Risking his own life, he braved the flames to rescue his neighbors trapped in their burning homes. With unwavering resolve, he helped carry an elderly woman and a young child to safety, earning the gratitude and admiration of the entire community.

The rescued woman, Mrs. Okonkwo, spoke tearfully of her harrowing experience. She expressed her gratitude to Mr. Ade and the firefighters who had come to their rescue. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of ordinary people in the face of adversity.

As the hours passed, the firefighters’ efforts finally paid off, and the flames were brought under control. While the shanty had suffered extensive damage, the worst had been averted.

Thanks to the rapid response of the authorities and the bravery of Mr. Ade, the community had not suffered any casualties, save for the trauma of witnessing their homes reduced to ashes.

The aftermath of this devastating fire serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by informal settlements and marginalized communities. It underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures and infrastructure in such areas to prevent such disasters in the future.

In the midst of tragedy, the resilience and heroism displayed by the residents of the Lekki shanty, as well as the valiant efforts of the firefighters, provide a glimmer of hope.

It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of unity in the face of adversity.

While the road to recovery will be long and challenging, the Lekki community will undoubtedly emerge stronger, their bonds forged even tighter in the crucible of this fiery trial.

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