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Anambra NMA Calls Off Strike as Kidnapped Doctor Regains Freedom
The Anambra State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has officially ended the indefinite strike it initiated in response to the kidnapping of Dr. Stephen Ezeh, a medical doctor based in Ihiala.
The announcement was made on Sunday through a statement signed by the chapter’s Chairman, Dr. Princeston Okam, and Secretary, Dr Ifeanyi Obiaeli, who confirmed that Dr Ezeh had been released on Saturday.
Following this development, the NMA directed its members to resume their duties at healthcare facilities across the state.
Clinical services were set to recommence as of 8:00 AM on Sunday, August 25. In the statement, the association expressed deep gratitude to all those who contributed to the efforts leading to Dr Ezeh’s safe return.
The NMA also used the opportunity to appeal to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to prioritize security in the state by declaring a state of emergency, particularly due to the rising wave of insecurity, especially kidnapping, which the association said is adversely affecting both the economy and healthcare delivery.
The association expressed its appreciation to the public for their understanding during the strike, describing the period as a difficult one for everyone.
They further expressed hopes that such an incident would not occur again. Additionally, the statement praised members of the medical association for their unity and determination in the face of challenges such as insecurity, which has placed immense pressure on the healthcare sector.
In their appeal, the NMA urged the public, security agencies, professional bodies, and corporate organizations to collaborate with Governor Soludo’s administration to promote peace, security, and improved healthcare in Anambra State.
DDrEzeh’s kidnapping, which occurred on August 15 in Ihiala, prompted the NMA to issue a 48-hour ultimatum, eventually leading to a full strike on August 22 when the doctor had not been released.
After several days of intense negotiations and efforts, his release on August 24 brought an end to the medical strike, allowing doctors to return to their posts and resume providing essential health services to the public.
The NMA closed the statement by expressing hope that the issues of insecurity in Anambra State will be effectively addressed to ensure that such disruptions to healthcare services do not recur in the future.
The Federal Government trains 500 women and youths in food production and agriculture. The programme was started to support food security.
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security partnered with the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT).
The women and youths were taught tomato, okra and Telfairia production techniques. The government believes this will help boost agriculture, improve food production and strengthen the economy in Ogun State.
According to reports, fuel stations are reducing their prices a bit. This has become a general thing around Nigeria after the spike due to the removal of subsidy.
The prices are dropping to ₦1,275 and ₦1,299, going lower than ₦1,300 compared to what it was before.
MTN has moved closer to acquiring IHS Holding, following shareholder approval of the proposed takeover, marking another major milestone in the transaction.
The approval was secured during the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held on 4 August, allowing the deal to progress to the next stage.
If completed, the acquisition is expected to strengthen MTN’s infrastructure capabilities by giving the company greater control over its telecommunications tower assets. Industry analysts believe the move could improve network efficiency, reduce long-term operating costs, and support MTN’s continued expansion across its markets.
The transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions before it can be officially completed.
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