The Kaduna State government has allocated ₦71.65 billion to enhance medical services and infrastructure, alongside distributing over ₦3 billion worth of modern medical equipment to 290 primary healthcare centers in the state.

This announcement was made by the Commissioner for Health, Umma Ahmad, during a press briefing on Thursday in Kaduna.

Ahmad highlighted key achievements of the administration, stating, “We have recorded remarkable strides in the health sector,” which includes substantial budget allocations and infrastructure upgrades.

The ongoing projects feature the construction of a 300-bed specialist hospital and the establishment of emergency medical services, upgrades to nine secondary health facilities.

As part of its comprehensive healthcare strategy, Ahmad highlighted the state’s initiatives to address pressing health issues. She stated, “Additionally, the state is tackling malnutrition with 31,000 cartons of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) and improving healthcare access through expanded insurance coverage, benefiting over 83,000 individuals,” she said

In her address, Ahmad also discussed new digital health initiatives, including the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system and the launch of Project 10 Million, which focuses on screening citizens for hypertension and diabetes. “It is boosting emergency response through the Kaduna State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (KADSEMSAS),” she added.

Moreover, Ahmad emphasized the importance of partnerships, stating, “The state continues to prioritize partnerships with global organizations and donors to elevate healthcare service delivery for its citizens.”

This includes the engagement of 1,354 Community Health Influencers, Promoters, and Service Providers (CHIPS) across 14 Local Government Areas, aiming to extend healthcare services to underserved communities.

The state has also renewed its Memorandum of Understanding with the Pharmaceutical Group of Manufacturing Association of Nigeria to ensure affordable and equitable distribution of medical supplies. Ahmad stated, “The Kaduna State Health Supply Management Agency (KADHSMA) is now achieving 100% distribution to health facilities across the state.”  

Further improvements include the upgrade of the state’s medical stores to ‘Pharmagrade’ standards, along with the establishment of a new medical oxygen plant at the Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial Hospital, in partnership with UNICEF.

This initiative will complement an existing facility and aims to set up two additional oxygen plants. Lastly, Ahmad noted, “A fully equipped neonatal center has also been set up at Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial Hospital, aiming to reduce neonatal mortality and morbidity.”  

She concluded by highlighting logistical advancements through a revised Service Level Agreement with Fly Zipline International Nigeria Limited, enhancing the delivery of essential healthcare resources via aerial drones to remote areas.

By Adenike Lawal

As chronic diseases, particularly chronic kidney disease (CKD), continue to escalate worldwide, health experts are emphasizing the importance of proactive lifestyle changes. At a recent webinar hosted by SYNLAB Nigeria, experts shared insights on how incorporating healthy habits—particularly physical activity—can significantly enhance kidney health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

During the webinar, the focus was on prevention, with the speakers highlighting practical steps individuals can take to protect their kidneys and overall health. Dr. Damian Avar, a leading health expert, discussed the critical role of diet, hydration, and physical activity in maintaining kidney function.

Dr. Avar warned against the consumption of processed meats, high-sodium foods, fast food, and sugary drinks, which can place undue stress on the kidneys. These foods are often high in additives and unhealthy fats that can accelerate kidney damage, especially in individuals already at risk of CKD.

On hydration, Dr. Avar emphasized the importance of drinking enough water daily to support kidney function. He advised that men should aim for three to four liters of water per day, while women should consume two to three liters, adjusting for age, health conditions, and activity levels. Proper hydration helps the kidneys filter waste effectively and maintain the body’s fluid balance.

However, beyond diet and hydration, Dr. Avar underscored the importance of regular physical activity. He recommended at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running or strength training, each week. “Exercise not only enhances kidney function but also improves overall health and helps manage weight, a key factor in preventing kidney disease,” Dr. Avar explained. He also noted that exercise contributes to better cardiovascular health, which is closely linked to kidney function.

The expert also discussed the negative effects of prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can damage the kidneys. He advised people to avoid overusing these medications, particularly for minor ailments, as they can worsen kidney problems over time.

Dr. Remi Adelaja, a Consultant Physician and Nephrologist, further elaborated on the global burden of kidney disease, which affects over 850 million people worldwide. He noted that CKD is especially prevalent in developing nations like Nigeria, where limited healthcare access and socio-economic challenges contribute to the progression of the disease. “In Nigeria, many people are unaware of their kidney health status until complications become severe,” Dr. Adelaja explained. He emphasized the importance of early detection and regular health check-ups to prevent CKD from advancing.

Dr. Adelaja also recommended lifestyle changes to slow the progression of CKD, including smoking cessation, blood pressure management, and a balanced, low-protein diet. Since high blood pressure and diabetes are significant risk factors for CKD, he urged people to prioritize health screenings and address underlying conditions promptly.

Managing stress was another key point in the discussion, as both Dr. Avar and Dr. Adelaja stressed the link between stress and kidney health. They recommended stress-relieving practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises. Additionally, they highlighted the importance of getting six to eight hours of sleep each night, which helps the body recover and supports kidney function.

By Emmanuel Ogbodo

The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated a year-long collaboration with TikTok to improve health literacy, promote healthier lifestyle choices, and tackle misinformation on the platform.

Given TikTok’s popularity among younger audiences, this partnership is significant. Research indicates that around 25% of young adults turn to social media for news and information, making platforms like TikTok influential in shaping health-related choices.

Acknowledging the impact of social media on health decisions, especially among youth, WHO aims to counter misinformation with this collaboration by providing evidence-based content.

Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO’s Chief Scientist, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This collaboration can prove to be an inflection point in how platforms can be more socially responsible.” He highlighted that through this partnership, WHO aims to offer credible health information and encourage constructive scientific discussions to build a healthier future.

Valiant Richey, TikTok’s Global Head of Trust and Safety Outreach, reiterated the platform’s dedication to mental health awareness, saying, “We are delighted to collaborate with WHO’s Fides network of health influencers, bringing engaging and authoritative mental well-being content to our community.”

As part of the collaboration, TikTok will join forces with WHO’s Fides network, a group of health content creators established in 2020, to expand the reach of trustworthy health information. TikTok also plans to support influencers via its creator training programs, assisting them in transforming scientific data into engaging, easy-to-understand videos. The initiative will place a strong emphasis on content addressing key health topics, especially mental well-being.

Dr. Alain Labrique, WHO’s Director of Digital Health and Innovation, stressed the role of influencers in making health science more relatable. He stated, “Creators who understand their audience’s needs have a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between science and everyday life. This is where WHO can step in to support influencers in delivering evidence-based information, ensuring that health conversations on platforms like TikTok are both impactful and informed.”