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AGONY OF A MOTHER

AGONY OF A MOTHER

 KALU OKORONKWO writes how a young man’s life is cut short with a bullet from a Governor’s aide

Nigeria has become a land where the gap between power and citizens is measured not only in poverty and privilege, but in blood. Nothing illustrates this more blatantly than the tragic killing of 22-year-old Moses Mba, gunned down in Calabar by a security aide attached to the Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Edet Otu. Moses, like millions of young Nigerians, had dreams, hopes, and the right to life.

But his story ended abruptly, not in the crossfire of terrorism or banditry, but at the reckless hands of those sworn to protect. His death is not just another statistic; it is a chilling metaphor for a nation where ordinary citizens bleed while their leaders feast.

Every nation pays a price for poor leadership, sometimes in lost opportunities; sometimes in wasted resources. In Nigeria, however, the price is written in blood. Leadership failure has left a trail of corpses, grief, and trauma. It is no longer just about corruption or inefficiency, it is now more about lives wasted because those entrusted with the duty of protection and progress have failed.

According to the deceased’s mother, Mrs. Mba  Onyekwere Victoria,  Moses who would have turned 23 in November this year  was unarmed and defenseless when he was  confronted not by criminals but by state security personnel wielding  power like a private weapon. On August 1, 2025, Moses was said to have gone to the   Government House, Calabar, to preach the gospel when the security details attached to the Government House pounced on him, beat him to pulp, shot and left him in the pool of his blood.

For his family, the loss is immeasurable: a son gone, a dream extinguished and a future stolen. Sober, devastated and mourning the tragic death of the first fruit of her womb, a growing man who woke up to a bright morning and a day full with positive expectations.

Nothing in the firmament prepared Mrs. Mba for the agony that awaited her. Not even a nightmare for she slept soundly like a new born. You could imagine how the news hit her. She was inconsolable. Surrounded by family, friends and sympathizers, Mrs Mba amid the confusion going on in her mind sent a petition through her lawyer to the AIG Zone 6, wanting justice for her son. For three long weeks, there has been lethargy and inertia on the part of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the gruesome murder of Moses by a Police aide attached to Governor Otu of Cross River State.

Mrs Mba narrated her futile attempt so far to get justice for her late son: “I have been trying to fight this case legally through the law and the government, but they are trying to deprive us justice. The AIG of Police in Charge of Zone 6, after more than three weeks sent a notice to investigating Police Officer to fish out and arrest those involved in my son’s murder but noting has been done till today”, laments the bereaved mother, adding that “they said the Governor’s name is involved and nothing would be done about it”.  

She explained further that after her son was beaten and shot dead at about 11 am, he was abandoned in his pool of blood and was only taken to the hospital at about 7pm by the Red Cross.

However, recent report has quoted the Cross River State Commissioner of Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang as saying that the Cross River State Governor, has condemned the killing and ordered the arrest of the aide responsible for the shooting of Moses.

The murder of Onyekachi Moses Mba is no longer just a crime, it has become a national litmus test for accountability in governance. Will Governor Otu match his words with action or will this become another chapter in Nigeria’s growing tale of state protected violence?

Moses’ story is not isolated, it is part of an ugly pattern in Nigeria where security agencies, tasked with protecting lives, too often become instruments of brutality, particularly when attached to the powerful.

He has become part of a wider narrative of state enabled violence, from the streets of Lagos during the #EndSARS protests, to highways littered with tales of citizens mowed down by reckless convoys, to communities scarred by extrajudicial killings. Moses’ blood joins countless others, staining a nation where leadership has too often failed in its most basic duty: to protect life.

Moses’ killing recalls the painful memories of October 2020, when young Nigerians, frustrated with decades of police brutality, poured onto the streets under the banner of #EndSARS. Their demand was simple: stop Police brutality and killings, Instead, the state responded with violence. At the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos, security operatives opened fire on peaceful protesters, leaving behind bodies, chaos, and a broken social contract.

Moses’ death is not an accident of history, it is part of a systemic culture where the lives of citizens, especially the youth, are expendable in the eyes of the powerful. The bullets that ended his life carry the same logic as those fired at Lekki Toll Gate in October 2020: the convenience, ego, or impunity of those in authority outweigh the sanctity of Nigerian life.

Nigeria’s political class is notorious for convoys that terrorize rather than protect. Sirens wail, vehicles speed recklessly, and ordinary Nigerians are shoved off the road or worse, crushed under the weight of privilege. There have been numerous reports of innocent citizens killed or maimed by convoys of governors, ministers, or lawmakers.

Moses’ killing is another face of this killing culture: the belief that armed escorts are not guardians of law but enforcers of power. In this warped system, a citizen can lose his life simply by being at the wrong place, at the wrong time, in the wrong proximity to political authority.

However, the killing of Moses Mba exposes more than the recklessness of one security aide; it reveals the rot at the heart of Nigeria’s leadership and governance culture. Several questions demand sober reflection: why are security aides allowed to operate as though they are above the law?; why does proximity to political power often translate into impunity? And why does justice for victims of state brutality remain elusive, delayed, or denied?

This tragedy highlights the wider crisis of leadership accountability in Nigeria. Leaders cloak themselves in excessive security while citizens are exposed to violence from every side, terrorists, bandits, armed robbers, and, tragically, the very security forces meant to shield them.

The symbolism is painful: while leaders gather in grand banquets, convoys, and rallies, ordinary Nigerians face bullets, hunger, and despair. Citizens are asked to endure economic hardship in the name of reform, yet those in power live extravagantly. They preach sacrifice but practice indulgence.

Moses’ death underscores the hypocrisy of this social contract. How can leaders claim to govern the people when their own guards casually snuff out the lives of those very people? How can a nation progress when its leaders feast while its youth die of hunger?

 Okoronkwo is a communications strategist, a leadership and good governance advocate

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 KALU OKORONKWO writes how a young man’s life is cut short with a bullet from a Governor’s aide Nigeria has become a land where the gap between power and citizens is measured
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WORKERS AND RIGHT TO SHELTER

WORKERS AND RIGHT TO SHELTER

 Delta State sets the stage for the construction of a workers’ housing estate,writes EMMANUEL JAMES

In Nigeria today, where affordable housing remains a national crisis, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is steadily carving a reputation as a leader who not only talks about workers’ welfare but acts decisively to secure it. On Tuesday in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori made a landmark stride in this direction by formally presenting a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN). The document, covering a 10.1-hectare parcel of land at Core Area 2 in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area, sets the stage for the construction of a workers’ housing estate, an intervention aimed at easing the suffocating rent burden on junior and middle-level employees. The ceremony, attended by labour leaders, FMBN executives, and state officials, was not just a bureaucratic event. It was a symbolic gesture that underscored Oborevwori’s deep commitment to tackling one of the most persistent challenges confronting Nigerian workers: the right to decent and affordable shelter. The governor minced no words in explaining the urgency of the project. “Most of the salaries of our junior and middle-level workers are consumed by rent. That is why this housing scheme is so important,” he said. For a civil servant earning less than ₦100,000 monthly, rental costs, especially in urban centres like Asaba and Warri—can gulp as much as 60 to 70 percent of income. This leaves families struggling with little left for food, education, and healthcare. By creating affordable housing estates in partnership with the FMBN, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Oborevwori administration is addressing not just a housing issue but a broader social equity question. Secure, affordable shelter is directly linked to productivity, family stability, and even security.

To demonstrate his seriousness, Oborevwori waived statutory fees amounting to nearly ₦200 million on the land allocated for the housing estate. “Although the C of O was ready since January 2024, the presentation was delayed by administrative processes. We waived statutory fees in the interest of workers,” the governor revealed. This singular gesture highlights a leadership style that prioritises long-term welfare over immediate state revenue. In an era when many governments lean on high levies and taxes, Delta’s leader is deliberately absorbing costs to make housing affordable for those who keep the wheels of governance and commerce turning daily. Nigeria’s housing deficit remains staggering. Estimates put the shortfall between 20 and 22 million units. This crisis is compounded by rapid urbanisation, a growing population, and the high cost of construction materials. According to UN-Habitat, Nigeria needs to build at least 700,000 homes annually to close the gap, yet current capacity barely scratches the surface. Dr. Mohammed Sani Abdul, FMBN’s Executive Director for Loans and Mortgage Services, acknowledged this reality while commending Oborevwori. He noted that the Ibusa estate fits neatly into the bank’s broader mandate to provide affordable housing for Nigerians.

“With the Renewed Hope Mega Mini-City project of Mr. President, our target is to provide affordable housing for Nigerians at all levels, especially those at the bottom of the pyramid. Delta is very key to the success of this national plan,” Abdul said. The Ibusa estate will not only provide homes but will also serve as a pilot for scaling such interventions across Delta State and, potentially, across the South-South region. Governor Oborevwori’s housing initiative is not an isolated programme but part of a broader vision to improve the lives of workers. His administration has rolled out policies that touch healthcare, education, infrastructure, and agricultural development, all aimed at raising living standards. Housing, however, remains pivotal. Experts argue that stable housing is a gateway to other improvements: children study better in stable homes, families save more, and communities thrive. The multiplier effect is immense. Construction itself generates jobs for artisans, suppliers, and service providers, boosting local economies. Already, the governor’s move is drawing praise from labour leaders who see it as a direct response to workers’ daily struggles.

The Nigeria Labour Congress in Delta has repeatedly called for affordable housing schemes as one of the surest ways to address poverty among workers. Interestingly, Abdul of the FMBN used the occasion to challenge Delta’s local councils to contribute actively to the National Housing Fund (NHF). “If local government councils contribute to the NHF, the bank can extend housing projects to the grassroots,” he said. This call is significant because rural and semi-urban communities often face the worst housing conditions, dilapidated homes, slums, and overcrowding. With active participation from LGAs, the benefits of Oborevwori’s worker-centric housing model can reach even the remotest corners of the state. Observers note that Delta under Oborevwori is undergoing a quiet transformation. In Asaba, infrastructural upgrades are visible: new roads, beautification projects, and public facilities. But what sets his government apart is the deliberate focus on the welfare of ordinary citizens. Unlike many politicians who treat housing as a campaign soundbite, Oborevwori is making it a centrepiece of governance. The housing estate in Ibusa is not the end but a beginning. His remarks suggest more estates could be rolled out across the three senatorial districts to ensure inclusivity. This approach contrasts with the stereotypical top-down governance often witnessed in Nigeria. Oborevwori has shown humility in leadership, insisting that the government’s role is to reduce burdens on citizens, not increase them.

His decision to waive ₦200 million in fees reinforces this principle. Where others see land as a revenue source, Oborevwori sees it as a social asset, an opportunity to deliver dignity, stability, and productivity to workers who form the backbone of the state’s economy. Ultimately, the Ibusa housing estate represents more than concrete blocks and roofing sheets. It symbolises a renewed social contract between government and the governed. For the nurse in Asaba, the teacher in Ibusa, or the junior clerk in Warri, it means the chance to own a home, save money, and build a future. It is also a testament to a governor who understands that governance is not measured only in kilometres of road but also in the security of families having a roof over their heads. As Nigeria grapples with its daunting housing deficit, Delta State under Sheriff Oborevwori is offering a workable template—rooted in compassion, partnership, and decisive action. If replicated across the federation, initiatives like this could slowly close the housing gap, improve productivity, and restore dignity to millions of Nigerians. For Delta workers, hope is no longer a distant promise. With Governor Oborevwori’s housing push, it is being built brick by brick, estate by estate. James, writes from Agbor, Delta State

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 Delta State sets the stage for the construction of a workers’ housing estate,writes EMMANUEL JAMES In Nigeria today, where affordable housing remains a national crisis, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is steadily
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How CBN Reforms, Stable Economy is Opening Domestic Markets for FDI inflows

How CBN Reforms, Stable Economy is Opening Domestic Markets for FDI inflows

In the first quarter of 2025, capital inflows to Nigeria stood at $5.6 billion according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data. But behind the numbers are people and businesses beginning to feel the change. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) notes that investment decisions are shaped by economic, institutional, and market-related factors. For Nigeria, its vast market size, growth potential, improved macroeconomic stability and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reforms, especially those that allow foreign investors to repatriate profits, are emerging as strong incentives.

Precious Ugwuzor 

reports

There is rising interest from domestic and global investors in Nigeria assets, as seen in the latest capital inflows to the country.

The rising investors’ interest is linked to fallout of crucial reforms instituted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) under the Olayemi Cardoso leadership. The reforms have led to macroeconomic stability and raised the level of foreign investors interests in Nigeria assets.

Upon assuming office in October 2023, the apex bank leadership had prioritised reforms to rebuild Nigeria’s economic buffers and strengthen resilience.

CBN’s policies, including the currency reforms, led to investment inflows from abroad, and reduced interventions in the domestic forex market.

The unification of exchange rates and the clearing of over $7 billion FX backlog raised the country’s investment outlook, with multilateral organizations, like the World Bank describing it as bold intervention to improve the economy’s sustainability in the long run.

Also, Nigeria’s sovereign risk spread has fallen to the lowest level since January 2020, erasing the premium accumulated during the pandemic and subsequent strain on its economy. All these are deliberate efforts to woo investors and sustain capital inflows to the economy. 

What the IMF is saying

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows to states are determined by a mix of economic, institutional, and market-related factors. Key determinants include the host country’s market size and growth potential, the quality of its infrastructure and business climate, and its level of macroeconomic stability and political stability. Trade openness, factor costs (such as labor and wages), and effective government regulations also play a significant role. 

In International Monetary Fund (IMF) Working Paper,  by Ewe-Ghee Lim, titled: “Determinant of, and the Relation Between, Foreign Direct Investment and Growth” detailed that FDI determinants generally come in two forms: investor surveys and econometric or in-depth case studies.

“We reviewed two large investor surveys first. The first is a recent survey of CEOs, CFOs, and other top corporate executives of the Global 1000 companies. The survey cites large market size, political and macroeconomic stability, GDP growth, regulatory environment, and the ability to repatriate profits as the five most important factors affecting FDI,” he said.

He said that heavy manufacturers remain mostly interested in the large emerging markets, commitment to privatisation.

The IMF also discovered that the most important determinants of FDIs inflows were the size of the market, the cost of labor and FDI policies.

Also to be considered are the investors viewed restrictions on repatriation of earnings, local content and local ownership requirements as serious setback to FDI.

“In general, the technology-intensive sectors such as general machinery and electronics were the most sensitive to restrictive FDI policies. Interestingly, fiscal and tax incentives were viewed as having little or no effect on FDI decisions. Such incentives policies were viewed as perhaps indicative of a positive political attitude towards investment, but also unstable because they could just as easily be reversed,” the report said.

Reforms impact on FX inflows

These reforms have led to surge in capital inflows into the Nigeria economy. The inflows rose to $5.6 billion in the first quarter of 2025, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report has shown. The inflows represent  67.12 per cent jump  from $3.4 billion recorded in the same period of last year.

The latest “Nigeria Capital Importation Q1 2025” report released represents 10.86 per cent surge from the $5.1 billion reported in fourth quarter of 2024.

“In Q1 2025, total capital importation into Nigeria stood at US$5642.07 million, higher than $3.37 billion recorded in Q1 2024, indicating an increase of 67.12  per cent. In comparison to the preceding quarter, capital importation increased by 10.86 per cent from $5.08 billion in Q4 2024,” the report stated.

The NBS also stated that portfolio investment ranked top with $5.2 billion, accounting for 92.25 per cent, followed by other investment with $311.17 million, accounting for 5.52 per cent.

The report indicated that, “Foreign Direct Investment recorded the least with $126.29 million accounting for 2.24 per cent of total capital importation in Q1 2025.”

According to the NBS, the banking sector took the lead with the highest inflows in Q1 2025.

The report stated, “The Banking sector recorded the highest inflow with $3.1 billion, representing 55.44 per cent of total capital imported in Q1 2025, followed by the Financing sector, valued at $2.09 billion (37.18 per cent), and Production/Manufacturing sector with $129.92 million (2.30 per cent).” 

The report further noted that capital importation during the reference period originated largely from the United Kingdom with $3681.96 million, showing 65.26 per cent of the total capital imported.

In emailed note to investors, Managing Director, Afrinvest West Africa Limited, Ike Chioke, explained that Portfolio Investment (92.2 per cent of total capital) dominated flows, rising by 30.1 per cent quarter-on-quarter,  and 150.8 per cent year-on-year to $5.2 billion.

The bulk of the FPI flows was to Money market instruments (up 162.2 per cent year-on-year to $4.2 billion), while Bonds (up 108.5 per cent) and Equities (up 137.7 per cent) attracted $877.4 million and $117.3 million respectively.

Other analysts at Afrinvest explained that capital importation captures financial and physical capital entering a country from offshore sources, based on banking sector and Customs records. These inflows expand the capital stock available to drive economic growth and often serve as a litmus test of an economy’s health and international investment competitiveness. 

They explained that on the surface, the rise in quarterly capital importation to a five-year high might suggest renewed foreign investor optimism in the domestic economy.

“In our view, this spike was driven by opportunistic investments in the money market, where Treasury Bills, Bonds, and OMO bills offered rates above 20 per cent in the period. However, such flows are highly sensitive to shifts in domestic monetary policy, global risk sentiment, and macroeconomic shocks, and flows momentum could wane when the CBN pivots to a more accommodative rate stance,” they said. 

“Meanwhile, the share of FDI – a cheaper and more impactful capital on long-term economic growth – continues to diminish. This trend is reflective of low confidence in the long-term prospects of the economy amid the legacy issues of insecurity, weak institutions and enforcement of law, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and a high corruption perception”.

Continuing, they stated that weak traction into non-financial sectors such as Manufacturing, ICT, Construction, Oil & Gas, and Transporation, paints a less compelling picture of the overall surge in capital inflows in Q1. We note that while the uptick may support currency stability and short-term growth spurts, the underlying quality of these inflows mirrors previous episodes of hot-money dependence that heightened vulnerability to external shocks. 

“Lastly, the concentration of investments in Lagos and Abuja (only 0.4% of the $5.6bn inflows were directed elsewhere) spotlights the deep competitiveness gaps across sub-nationals. Hence, subnational governments need to strengthen their business environments and improve overall investment attractiveness,” they said.

“Nigeria appears to be back in business as long-awaited economic reforms take shape,” said Emre Akcakmak, portfolio manager at East Capital. Key measures include improved currency liquidity, leeway for investors to repatriate their profit, and the stable naira.

“We feel the Central Bank of Nigeria will continue to stem any sharp appreciation of the naira to limit profit taking from the fast money community,” Akcakmak said.

Banking sector to the rescue

A well-recapitalised banking sector is undeniably crucial for the growth of the domestic economy. Cardoso had advised banks to prepare for a new round of recapitalisation to ensure they have the necessary capital to support the Federal Government’s plan to achieve $1 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP)  target by 2030.

He said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic plan aims to reach a $1tr GDP by 2030, emphasising that the current bank capitalisation is insufficient to support such a large economic scale.

Cardoso asked: “Will Nigerian banks have sufficient capital relative to the financial system’s needs in servicing a $1tr economy in the near future? In my opinion, the answer is “No!” unless we take action. That action was the ongoing recapitalisation of banks, meant to prepare them for expansion and attract big ticket transactions to support economic growth”.

The Policy Advisory Council report on the national economy, had set an ambitious goal of achieving a GDP of $1 trillion, with clearly defined priority areas and strategies.

Adeniran revealed that incorporated new and emerging sectors, consumption baskets update, and data collection refining methods helped produce a more complete picture of national output.

Aliyu Ilias, developmental economist, noted that several sectors have previously remained uncaptured in official data, particularly entertainment. “By rebasing our GDP now, included those areas properly. This new visibility will make Nigeria appear much stronger to foreign investors, which will naturally help us attract more capital,” he said.

He explained that the exercise will also reveal untapped economic potential and guide government resource allocation. “It will show where we are strongest structurally, such as in mining or other emerging sectors. That insight will help the government focus its efforts more strategically.”

“Finally,” he added, “it will support economic policy formulation, helping us align our strategy with the reality on the ground. We will know exactly where to put more effort.”

Ilias explained that while this statistical adjustment does not instantly generate new revenue, it creates a more reliable framework for fiscal planning, investment strategies, and development interventions.

For him, by aligning economic data with current realities, the government and private sector can more effectively target policies that stimulate job creation, improve productivity, and sustain long-term growth.

Seun Onigbinde, director of Civic Technology Group BudgIT, said the previous rebasing underscored the substantial impact of policy changes in the services and ICT sectors, such as telecommunications deregulation and banking sector recapitalisation. “Rebasing of the GDP must reflect changes in the economy, which are a product of public policies over time,” he added.

Rebasing is also critical for domestic policy. It allows the government to better assess tax collection efficiency, measure sectoral contributions, and design social programmes that are data-driven and results-oriented.

Gabriel Okeowo, country director for BudgIT, said, “Rebasing allows planners to be more intentional about solving Nigeria’s biggest problems: poverty, infrastructure gaps, and job creation.”

Lagos-based economist, Nelson Adedeji, explained that despite the bump in GDP size, the rebasing never a silver bullet.

“We must acknowledge that genuine economic growth extends beyond statistical adjustments. For ordinary Nigerians to experience meaningful improvement in living standards, the President Bola Tinubu administration must complement GDP rebasing with substantive policies addressing infrastructure deficits, security challenges, agricultural productivity, manufacturing capacity, and the overall ease of doing business,” he stated.

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In the first quarter of 2025, capital inflows to Nigeria stood at $5.6 billion according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data. But behind the numbers are people and businesses beginning
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Affirming Promotion of Oral Hygiene, Dental Care

Affirming Promotion of Oral Hygiene, Dental Care

As part of its efforts to promote oral and dental care, Nature’s Renaissance International (NRI), an indigenous health and wellness company, has added two new toothpastes to the market. The UATD EYI Toothpastes were unveiled at a launch event in Lagos last month. The launch showcased UATD EYI Charcoal Toothpastes for adults, enriched with herbal extracts such as turmeric, and UATD EYI Children Toothpaste enriched with strawberry and grape-flavoured variants. Sunday Ehigiator reports

The launch marks a significant step for the company and for Nigeria’s growing personal care industry as the toothpastes are proudly formulated and manufactured locally. The new toothpastes, according to the Chief Executive Officer of Nature’s Renaissance International (NRI), Prof. Clinton Brown Odiagbe, are part of a broader mission to utilise Africa’s natural resources to promote both health and economic empowerment.

NRI describes the product as not only a breakthrough in oral hygiene but also a symbol of African innovation and empowerment.  “The purpose of today’s event is to unveil and celebrate the launch of our latest innovation, UATD EYI Toothpastes. These products represent a breakthrough in dental care, setting a new standard in quality and marking an exciting addition to our product line.

“Alongside this launch, we are also introducing PASTE4ALERT, a unique empowerment package designed to drive impact and opportunity,” he added. “This product is not just a breakthrough in oral care; it is also a celebration of local excellence, deeply rooted in empowerment and purpose. Thanks to our partnership with Colori Cosmetics, a reputable manufacturing partner. UATD EYI Toothpastes are proudly made in Nigeria and for Africans.

“It’s a testament to our belief that Africa has what it takes- the resources, the people and the partnership to build world-class solutions. We are confident that NRI will continue to set new standards-not only in product innovation but in driving a powerful movement to help Africa break free from the cycles of poverty and poor health.” He noted that the company had invested heavily in local expertise and materials to develop a product that meets global standards.

“The UATD EYI adult charcoal toothpaste is infused with Aloe Barbadensis leaf extract and offers a range of health benefits, which include teeth whitening, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and relief for sensitive teeth,”  Odiagbe explained that the new products demonstrate how natural remedies can be transformed into world-class solutions that combine health benefits with economic empowerment.

“The launch introduced UATD EYI Charcoal Toothpaste for adults, enriched with herbal extracts such as turmeric, then strawberry and grape-flavoured options for children. He further noted that, unlike regular toothpaste, the charcoal variant goes beyond oral hygiene, helping to relax nerves and improve sleep.  This is nature made friendly. It is not just about whitening teeth, but supporting overall wellness,” he said.

Odiagbe, who is also a professor of natural medicine, said his interest in herbal solutions stemmed from personal experiences, including a spinal injury in his youth that was healed by a traditional bone doctor. He added that exposure to Chinese and Indian herbal practices later strengthened his resolve to develop African-centred remedies.

Since its inception in 2020, Odiagbe explained that NRI has remained committed to advancing herbal healthcare, producing over 16 certified herbal health products that have been used by more than three million Nigerians. The high point of the launch event was the presentation of car awards to NRI distributors across the nation, emblematic of the empowerment opportunity of the NRI model.

Speaking at the product unveiling, led by the Head of Department of Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Titus Tile, said, “The production is natural, using raw materials from our indigenous plants. And what it will do is that through the value chain of cultivation, processing and consumption, people will get jobs, and value for monetary gains, including the benefits. There are benefits, including the medicinal value of charcoal. Charcoal has medicinal values which have long been verified.”

He also shed light on the efforts the government is making to ensure traditional medicine is promoted. “Government is promoting the use of natural herbal products, and that is why there is a department. If not for the promotion of it, there wouldn’t be a department. We have a policy on traditional medicine now, and we have an essential medicinal list that includes a list of traditional plants in Nigeria. We have a herbal cornucopia that is looking into the standard of medicinal plants. We have organisations like the National Institute of Research, and also the Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency. All these are government structures to make sure that traditional medicine is promoted.” 

Dignitaries, including His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero; representatives of the Honourable Minister of Health, led by the Head of Department of Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Titus Tile; Dr. Dogara Okara, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health; wife of former president Obasanjo, Mrs. Alice Bola Obasanjo, represented by Dr. Mrs. Abisoye Adebanke Alabi; and Ambassador Adekunle Badmus, graced the occasion.

CAPTION: The CEO, Prof. Clinton Brown Odiagbe

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As part of its efforts to promote oral and dental care, Nature’s Renaissance International (NRI), an indigenous health and wellness company, has added two new toothpastes to the market. The
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