News
Bill Gates Warns of Another Pandemic Within 25 Years
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, has issued a cautionary warning about the likelihood of another global pandemic within the next 25 years, provided the world avoids a large-scale war.
Speaking in an interview with CNBC’s Make It program, Gates expressed concerns about the growing global unrest and its potential to lead to a major conflict.
However, he pointed out that if a major war is averted, a future pandemic remains a serious possibility.
Gates’ perspective is informed by the world’s unpreparedness during the COVID-19 pandemic, which revealed vulnerabilities in global health systems.
Reflecting on the lessons from the pandemic, Gates has joined other scientific and public health experts in expressing concern over how the world might respond to another health crisis.
Although the origins of the coronavirus remain a topic of debate, Gates and many experts believe that another pandemic could arise from a pathogen jumping from animals to humans, leading to a new infectious disease.
In the interview, Gates also addressed the United States’ response to COVID-19, noting that the country, which had been expected to lead by example, did not meet global expectations in its handling of the crisis.
His observations align with the themes of his 2022 book, How to Prevent the Next Pandemic, where he outlined strategies to improve global preparedness for future health emergencies.
In the book, Gates emphasized the need for enhanced quarantine measures, investment in vaccine research, and improved systems for managing the spread of diseases.
His warning serves as a reminder that despite the challenges of the past, more work is needed to ensure the world is better equipped for future pandemics.
News
Sylvester Stallone’s Painting Raises $410,000 for AIDS Research at amfAR Gala
Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone displayed his artistic and philanthropic sides at the amfAR gala in Las Vegas, where his painting, Knocking Heads, sold for an impressive $410,000. The event, held at The Wynn Hotel, aimed to support AIDS research, and Stallone’s contribution made a significant impact.
The vibrant multicolored artwork, featuring thoughtful faces and a nod to his iconic character Rocky Balboa, sparked an intense bidding war, earning a standing ovation when the auction concluded. Stallone, visibly delighted, expressed pride in helping the cause.
The night was further memorable for Stallone, as he received a special award from Tommy Hilfiger and his wife, Dee. Additionally, Stallone auctioned a role in his series, Tulsa King, raising an extra $300,000 for the foundation.
The gala blended art, charity, and entertainment, with Stallone’s efforts showcasing a different side of the celebrated actor and solidifying his legacy beyond Hollywood.
News
Two Cows Worth ₦1.9 Million Stolen From Oyo Church Ahead of Thanksgiving
The Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Testimony Parish in Egbeda, Oyo State, has reported the theft of two cows valued at ₦1.9 million.
The cows, intended for the church’s annual adult harvest thanksgiving on November 17, 2024, were stolen from the church premises on November 11 during preparations for the event.
Despite ongoing efforts, the stolen cows have not been found, prompting the church to seek financial assistance to replace them.
In a Facebook post, the church appealed for prayers and support from the public:
“These two huge cows were stolen from the church premises at CCC Testimony Parish, Elerumoke Area, Egbeda, Iyana Ajia. They were meant for the 9th adult harvest thanksgiving this Sunday.”
The church has called on anyone with helpful information to come forward and assist in recovering the cows or ensuring the success of the thanksgiving celebration.
News
Obasanjo Shares How He Almost Fell Into Drug Addiction
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria has opened up about how he came dangerously close to becoming addicted to drugs in his youth.
He shared this personal revelation in Abeokuta while addressing attendees at the second edition of the ‘Fly Above The High’ anti-drug campaign conference.
The event was organized by the Recovery Advocacy Network, a group committed to combating the growing menace of drug abuse in the country.
Reflecting on his past, Obasanjo revealed that his youthful experimentation with smoking led to a troubling period of chronic coughing.
According to him, what seemed like a harmless act at first could have easily spiraled into a full-blown addiction had he not stopped.
Sharing this personal struggle, he warned young Nigerians about the dangers of drug abuse and emphasized its destructive nature.
He noted that while drug users might initially believe substances provide an escape or enhancement, they ultimately lead to ruin.
He further explained that addiction is not just difficult to escape but often comes with long-lasting consequences.
“If I had persisted, I could have become addicted,” he said, stressing that once a person falls into the trap of substance abuse, it becomes an uphill battle to break free.
Obasanjo expressed deep concern over the rising rates of drug abuse among Nigerians, particularly among students and young people.
He pointed out that drug abuse is not just a Nigerian problem but a growing crisis across West Africa.
He recalled that over a decade ago, West Africa was already becoming a hub for drug consumption, and the situation has since deteriorated.
“Whatever applies to West Africa applies to all other parts of Africa,” he added.
The former president also touched on the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding addiction.
He emphasized that those struggling with addiction need help and support rather than judgment.
Obasanjo urged families, communities, and governments to work together to create an environment where individuals battling addiction can seek help without fear of condemnation.
The anti-drug campaign in Abeokuta was part of a larger effort by the Recovery Advocacy Network to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and provide resources for those affected.
The initiative also aims to educate young people on the importance of making informed decisions and staying away from substances that could jeopardize their future.
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