While the government denies a nationwide shortage, many areas are experiencing significant supply issues, HealthTimes report.

The shortages have hit communities like Epworth, Mutare, Masvingo, Harare, and Seke particularly hard. S3x workers say the problem stems from a mix of factors, including delayed restocking by health facilities, hoarding by some s3x workers, and alleged misappropriation of supplies by healthcare workers.

Precious Musindo, founder of Springs of Life Zimbabwe, a s3x worker-led organization, described the situation as dire. She explained how workers are using baby socks as makeshift female condoms.

Currently, we are facing a challenge accessing condoms. Supplies are limited, so as s3x workers, we are opting to use newborn baby socks. You fold them, insert them, and they prevent fluids and sperm from reaching the cervix,” Musindo told HealthTimes.

Musindo explained that once the socks become damp, they are washed and reused. In some areas, such as Komboni Yatsva in Epworth, s3x workers reportedly resort to collecting discarded baby socks from mothers.

The shortage is worsening health risks, with some s3x workers ignoring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to financial struggles.

S3x workers are also struggling to access healthcare services. Given the current economy, sometimes we go home empty-handed because business is bad. Even when someone contracts an STI, many choose to ignore it and continue working just to earn a living,” Musindo added.

Dr Bernard Madzima, CEO of the National AIDS Council (NAC), denied the existence of a nationwide condom shortage.

“As far as I am concerned, there is no shortage of condoms in Zimbabwe. We have enough stocks in the country. The current discussion is focused on condom funding post-2025. For now, there are adequate supplies in the public sector,” he said

However, major donors, including the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund, have informed the Zimbabwean government that they will terminate funding for condom programs by 2026.

Whether shopping, attending events, or hosting gatherings, a few practical tips can help you navigate the season safely while ensuring your festivities remain memorable for all the right reasons.

Here valuable tips to keep you and your loved ones safe indoors and outdoors during the festive period.

1. Be Alert in Crowded Areas

Crowded places such as markets and events are common during the festive period. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash.

2. Secure Your Home
Install security systems, lock all doors and windows, and inform trusted neighbours if you will be away.

3. Avoid Oversharing on Social Media
Posting your travel plans or expensive purchases can make you a target for burglars or scammers.

4. Drive Carefully
Roads tend to be busier during the holidays. Follow traffic rules, avoid driving under the influence, and plan trips during the day if possible.

5. Shop Responsibly
Use trusted vendors, avoid late-night shopping, and ensure your online transactions are done on secure platforms.

6. Stay Healthy
Avoid overindulgence in food and drinks. Also, maintain proper hygiene to prevent the spread of illnesses during gatherings.

7. Plan Your Finances
Create a budget to avoid overspending. Be cautious of scams or unsolicited investment offers.

8. Be Vigilant About Fire Safety
Inspect holiday lights, candles, and cooking appliances. Ensure fire extinguishers and smoke alarms are functional.

9. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
Save contact numbers for local police, fire services, and emergency medical services for quick access.

10. Practise COVID-19 Safety

At crowded events, consider wearing a mask if needed, and maintain hygiene by washing hands or using hand sanitisers.

In an interview, the Lagos State Public Enlightenment Officer for the Federal Road Safety Commission, Route Commander Elizabeth Oluwadamilola Jayeola, shared vital safety precautions for the festive season.

She noted, “The festive season is a time of joy, travel, and heightened road activities. However, it is also a period when road accidents tend to increase due to factors like speeding, fatigue, and general disregard for traffic laws.

“To ensure safety, motorists and commuters must take deliberate steps to prioritise their safety on the road.”

Tips for Motorists:

1. Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition by checking brakes, tyres, engine oil, lights, and wipers. Fix any faults promptly to avoid breakdowns or accidents.

2. Adhere strictly to speed limits and adjust based on road and weather conditions.

3. Avoid distractions, such as using your phone while driving. Stay focused on the road.

4. Fatigue impairs judgment. Ensure you are well-rested before embarking on any journey.

5. Start trips early to avoid night travel, which carries higher risks due to reduced visibility.

6. Respect your vehicle’s load-carrying capacity to ensure control and balance.

7. Prioritise passengers’ safety and comfort over profit.

Tips for Commuters:

1. Speak up against reckless driving.

2. Patronise reputable and well-maintained transport companies or vehicles.

3. Avoid boarding vehicles driven by drunken drivers.

4. Always fasten your seatbelt, even as a passenger.

5. Motorcyclists should always wear helmets.

6. Stay focused while riding and avoid distractions.

7. Report unsafe driving to relevant authorities.

8. Avoid last-minute trips to reduce rushed decisions and risk.

Similarly, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority Public Relations Officer, Adebayo Taofiq, outlined proactive strategies to ensure seamless traffic flow and safety during the Yuletide season.

“These strategies include stakeholder engagement, community enlightenment campaigns, media sensitisation, and enhanced deployment of officers to manage traffic hotspots. LASTMA has also provided heavy-duty towing vehicles for prompt responses to breakdowns and emergencies”, he stated.

Taofiq added that the agency is collaborating with the FRSC on public awareness campaigns and engaging market leaders to ensure traders do not encroach on pedestrian walkways, which can cause road hazards.

By staying proactive and following these safety tips, you can enjoy a memorable and safe festive season.

A statement on Tuesday, by the Corps Public Education Officer, FRSC Headquarters, Abuja, Assistant Corps Marshal, Olusegun Ogungbemide, stated that this collaborative effort is aimed at ensuring seamless vehicular movement during the busy yuletide season.

The initiative, borne out of strategic discussions between the Anambra Sector Commander, Corps Commander Joyce Alexander, and the Police Commissioners of Anambra and Delta States, CP Nnaghe Itam and CO BS Oluwafemi, respectively, introduces several critical measures to stem the tide of traffic during the festive period.

The statement read, “The partnership was reached following a critical session by the Sector Commander, Anambra State, Corps Commander Joyce Nnennaya Alexander, and the Anambra State Police Commissioner, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam as well as his counterpart in Delta State, CO BS Oluwafemi. “Part of the interventions to be put in place include; the removal of all checkpoints at the Head Bridge from December 18, 2024, to January 10, 2025, the establishment of mobile surveillance at the Second Bridge axis, dismantling of all police checkpoints on the Delta side of the Old Niger Bridge to facilitate free trafficking flow, as well as adequate deployment of officers for joint traffic control on the two bridges during the yuletide season.”

FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, lauded the initiative, emphasising its potential to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow during the festive period.

He urged motorists to cooperate with traffic management officials and adhere to road safety regulations.

The loans, currently in the pipeline, will focus on internally displaced persons, education, and nutrition enhancement.

According to information obtained from the World Bank’s website, the loans are designed to support Nigeria’s social and economic recovery, particularly in vulnerable sectors requiring urgent intervention.

The first project, titled Solutions for the Internally Displaced and Host Communities Project, has a commitment amount of $300m and is scheduled for approval on April 8, 2025.

The project, which remains at the concept review stage, seeks to provide sustainable solutions for internally displaced persons and their host communities, addressing their social and economic challenges.

The second project, HOPE for Quality Basic Education for All, is expected to receive $553.8m in financing.

Its approval is slated for March 20, 2025, and it also remains in the concept review phase.

The third project, Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria 2.0, involves the largest share of the proposed loans, with a commitment of $800m.

The World Bank is expected to hold a decision meeting on the project by February 20, 2025.

The $1.65bn financing package reflects the World Bank’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria’s ongoing reforms.

The World Bank’s schedule indicates that decisions on these loans will be made in early 2025, with Nigeria’s ability to meet project prerequisites and demonstrate accountability in implementation likely to play a key role in getting the funds.

the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has secured loans worth $6.95bn from the World Bank in about 18 months. The amount increased to the new figure following the latest approval of a new $500m loan from the World Bank for a project in Nigeria.

The Board of the World Bank Group approved a $500m loan to Nigeria last week Friday (December 13, 2024) to boost rural access and agricultural marketing in the country.

According to information obtained from the Washington-based institution, the loan is for the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project—Scale Up.

It is designed to bridge the gap between rural communities and the broader marketplace, facilitating smoother access to agricultural markets, schools, and hospitals and promoting social cohesion among rural populations.

This was the 10th loan project from the World Bank under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The first project approved under Tinubu’s administration was the $750m Power Sector Recovery Performance-Based Operation.

This loan is designated as additional financing for the power sector recovery performance-based operation, a crucial component of Nigeria’s broader strategy to stabilize and enhance its power sector.

On June 27, 2023, the World Bank Group announced the approval of a loan of $500m to help Nigeria drive women’s empowerment.

This was the second loan approved by the bank under Tinubu’s administration. It provided a scale-up financing for the Nigeria for Women Program.

Over time, bread has remained a staple food consumed by most families worldwide, including Nigeria. It has emerged as one of the most popular meal options that can be combined with various nuts, seeds, liquids, etc, to make a cheap and quick hunger-quenching meal.

Bread was so popular and significant that Jesus, more than 2,025 years ago, taught his disciples to pray to God thus: “Give us this day our daily bread’ (Matt 6.11).

However, the unethical and sharp practices of some bakers make bread consumption an ingestion of daily poison.

How? Researchers across many Nigerian cities have found that many bread brands contain potassium bromate and impermissible levels of other heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, lead, chromium, manganese, nickel, cobalt and zinc.

Those who consume bread contaminated by potassium bromate and trace metals, over a long time, are prone to many illnesses, including cancer and kidney failure.

Consequently, they urged the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, to take decisive steps, ensure close monitoring of bakeries across the country and avert health disaster as many consumers gave reasons they were addicted to bread.

Permissible level

Certain nations have set precise thresholds for certain levels of potassium bromate in final baked products, whereas others have prohibited its usage outright. In Nigeria, NAFDAC enforced a ban on using potassium bromate in flour milling and baking in 2003.

However, the World Health Organization, WHO; Food and Agriculture Organisation, FAO; and the Food and Drug Agency, FDA; recommended an acceptable daily intake of 0.02 mg.kg-1 for potassium bromate in bread

Most of the bread brands sampled in Ado-Ekiti, Ile-Ife, Port Harcourt, Yobe and Lagos contain over 0.05mg/kg of potassium bromate.

This disclosure is coming as NAFDAC warned bakeries to stop using saccharine and bromate in bread production, adding that those caught would be closed down.
However, the Professional Bakers Association of Nigeria, PBAN, has challenged NAFDAC to stop issuing warnings, and crackdown on quack bakers, claiming that its members produce safe and quality bread under hygienic conditions.

Why bakers use bromate

The use of cheap potassium bromate as flour improver for bread making has gained wide acceptability all over the world because of its slow oxidizing action which strengthens bread dough and helps to create a good texture in the finished product.

Utilized as an oxidizing agent in the fermentation and proofing phases of baking, potassium bromate is vital in shaping the composition and characteristics of dough.

It is widely recognized as one of the most cost-effective and efficient oxidizers in bread production as it modifies the gluten protein in flour, resulting in a softer and less elastic texture in the final product.

Also, potassium bromate contributes to the dough’s lightness and improves the bread’s overall consistency.
Nevertheless, heavy metals in bread production may also result from human involvement during processing or storage, influenced by environmental conditions, manufacturing techniques, and processing methods.

Dangers of excessive intake of bromate, others

In small quantities in diet, studies showed that trace elements are essential for specific bodily functions but their excessive intake can have detrimental effects on human health.

The consumption of bread containing heavy metals, such as mercury, magnesium, and lead, has been associated with various adverse effects, including neurological damage, suppression of the immune system, cancer, and behavioural and developmental problems.

For instance, the continued exposure to elevated levels of cadmium can lead to lung cancer, pulmonary adenocarcinomas, prostatic lesions, bone complications, kidney dysfunction, and hypertension.

Also, lead, which is non-essential for humans, can adversely affect the nervous, skeletal, circulatory, enzymatic, endocrine, and immune system.

Certain trace elements are often regarded as highly toxic, and exposure to them especially during infancy, such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb), can result in an array of health complications like anaemia, and different forms of cancer.

Others include hindrance of bone development, leading to conditions as rickets, adverse impacts on the nervous system, cardiovascular issues, blood disorders, gastrointestinal problems, kidney impairments, skin-related ailments, and even autism.

Toxicity of potassium bromate poisoning include pain in the abdomen and vomiting. It also induces cancer and kidney damage.

Nickel (Ni) poses significant risks to human health, particularly concerning lung-related conditions such as lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, and diminished lung function. Nickel exposure can lead to severe pulmonary ailments, including haemorrhage, oedema, alterations in alveolar cell structure, pulmonary fibrosis degeneration, and damage to the bronchial epithelium.

Individuals exposed to nickel may also be susceptible to developing adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
While chromium is essential for metabolic processes in the human body, excessive exposure can pose health risks, including skin allergies and an increased likelihood of lung cancer at higher toxic concentrations.

Cadmium toxicity has been linked to various health issues, including kidney disorders, anaemia, emphysema, loss of smell, cardiovascular ailments, renal problems, and high blood pressure

Cobalt (Co) is a vital micro-nutrient essential for human health, primarily in vitamin B12, crucial in various physiological processes.

However, excessive cobalt intake can lead to poisoning, associated with conditions such as cardiomyopathy, lung diseases, and hearing loss.

Regulations against bromate use

Aware of the dangers, NAFDAC enforced a ban on use of potassium bromate in flour milling and baking in 2003.
Despite this regulation, many bakers continue to use significant amounts of potassium bromate in order to boost production and increase profits, the researchers lamented.

Bread samples in Ado-Ekiti

In a research published in the Journal of Trace Elements and Minerals Volume 8 (2024)100158, Messrs J.A. Olusola, A.O. Aturamu, K.F. Akeju, R.E. Ogunsakin, and O.O. Awotoye, showed that six of seven bread brands sampled in Ado-Ekiti had potassium bromate and impermissible levels of other trace metals

Titled: “Assessment of health risks from potassium bromate and trace metals in bread consumption in Ado Ekiti, Southwest, Nigeria,” the researchers were drawn from Ekiti State University, Obafemi Awolowo University and University of Pretoria, South Africa.

According to them, seven unsliced bread varieties commonly consumed in Ado Ekiti were randomly chosen from local bakeries.

These bread samples were analyzed in the laboratory, using the Bulk Scientific Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (model 210/211 VGP) to determine the levels of trace metals, including lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), and cobalt (Co), as well as potassium bromate concentrations.

Results

The findings revealed that cobalt (Co) had the highest mean concentration (29.35±3.59 mg.kg?1), whereas lead (Pb) exhibited the lowest mean concentration (0.06±0.02 mg.kg?1). The sequence of trace metal levels was Co > Cd > Zn > Ni > Mn > Cr > Pb. All trace metal concentrations exceeded the standards set by FAO/WHO.

Potassium bromate content ranged from 0.01 mg.kg?1 to 0.06 mg.kg?1, surpassing the maximum permissible limits of 0.02 mg.kg?1 set by the Food and Drug Administration.

The concentrations of potassium bromate KBrO3 (mg/kg) detected in the bread samples were as follows: ABR1 0.01; ABR2 0.06; ABR3 0.05; ABR4 0.05; ABR5 0.03; ABR6 0.05; and ABR7 0.05.

Hazard ratio

Although the chronic hazard quotient among adults and children was low, the hazard ratio ranged from 11 to 9 among adults and 14 to 9 among children, suggesting the potential for carcinogenic effects with repeated consumption.

Based on the hazard ratios, the estimated chances of developing cancer from daily consumption of bread samples were approximately 14 in 1,000,000; 86 in 1,000,000; 71 in 1,000,000;and 40 in 1,000,000, respectively, for the adult population.

For the children population, the chances were about 20 in 1,000,000; 11 in 1,000,000; 90 in 1,000,000; and 56 in 1,000,000.

Trace elements in bread samples

The lead concentrations identified in the categorized bread samples varied between 0.03 and 0.1
0 mg.kg?1, with an average of 0.06 ± 0.02 mg.kg?1. These levels surpass the regulatory threshold of 0.02 mg.kg?1 for lead in food items

The Nickel levels in the categorized bread samples ranged from 4.50 to 5.05 mg.kg?1, averaging 4.62±0.24 mg.kg?1. These readings exceed the recommended limit of 1 mg.kg-1 for nickel in food.

Chromium concentrations ranged from 1.40 to 1.80 mg.kg?1, with an average of 1.67 ± 0.17 mg.kg?1, surpassing the World Health Organization’s sanctioned threshold of 0.05 mg.kg?1 for chromium in food.

The Zinc (Zn) content in the bread samples ranged from 5.60 to 11.40 mg.kg?1, with an average concentration of 9.01 ± 1.65 mg.kg?1, exceeding the acceptable limit of 1mg/kg for Zinc in food.

The concentrations of Cadmium in the examined bread samples ranged from 7.00 to 11.60 mg.kg?1, with an average of 9.71 ± 1.94 mg.kg?1. These concentrations exceeded the acceptable limit for Cadmium (Cd) in food, which is 0.03 mg.kg?1.

The levels of Cobalt (Co) found in the bread samples ranged from 26.40 to 36.15 mg.kg?1, with an average concentration of 29.35 ± 3.59 mg.kg?1, surpassing the permissible limits of 0.10 mg.kg?1.

Bread samples in Ile-Ife, Osun State

A similar study in the university town of Ile-Ife, Osun State, yielded same result in terms of other trace metals but had no bromate.

Titled: “Evaluation of potentially toxic elements and bromate levels in bread commonly consumed in Nigeria for human health risk assessment,” by Messrs Festus M Adebiyi, Odunayo T. Ore, and Friday J. Ojile, it was published in Journal of Trace Elements and Minerals Vol 8, June 2024, 100145.

The levels of potentially toxic elements, PTEs-cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, manganese, nickel, and zinc, and potassium bromate were determined in the bread samples using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and Ultraviolet Spectrophotometer respectively.

Results

The results of the study showed that copper had the highest mean concentration (39.20 ± 1.12 mg/kg) while lead had the lowest mean concentration (0.42 ± 0.02 mg/kg). The levels of the PTEs followed the order: Cu > Zn > Cr > Mn > Ni > Co > Cd > Pb. The concentrations of all the investigated elements exceeded the FAO/WHO legislations.

Potassium bromate was undetected in the samples. The target hazard quotients of Cr, Cu, and Cd were greater than 1, as opposed to the other elements which were less than 1.

The children were the more vulnerable population given that their total target hazard quotient (35.09) was higher than the adults (9.35) equivalent. Carcinogenic health risks (CR > 10?5) were associated with bread consumption.

Port Harcourt experience

A similar outcome was observed in Port Harcourt by Messrs FN Okwakpam, I Felagha, and BG Ibiama, in “analysis of Potassium Bromate Levels in Bread Brands Sold in Rumuolumeni and Mile 3 Areas of Port Harcourt, Nigeria” published in Asian Journal of Advanced Research and Reports 17(10): 208-212.”

The potassium bromate content of 16 selected bread samples mostly consumed in areas around two tertiary institutions in Rivers State was studied. The bread brands were randomly obtained from bakeries and food vendors around Rumuolumeni and Mile 3 area of Rivers State. Samples were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using the methods of AOAC, 2005. The qualitative analysis was determined by a color change from yellow to purple indicating the presence of Potassium bromate while quantitative analysis was done using a UV spectrophotometer.

Results for Rumuolumeni ranged from 0.02µg/g to 1.98µg/g while results from Mile 3 area ranged from 0.02µg/g to 1.51µg/g. The results showed that bread samples from all studied areas had bromate.

Lagos case

“Potassium Bromate content of bread samples in Lagos City”published by Nigerian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Applied Science Research, Vol 8, No.2 pages 33-36 (2020), determined levels of potassium bromate in 14 bread samples from Lagos city and suburbs, using spectrophotometric techniques.

The concentration of potassium bromate in these bread samples ranged between 0.05 ± 0.01 mg/kg and 1.99 ± 0.01 mg/kg. All the bread samples analysed had potassium bromate level above the maximum concentration allowed by the WHO, FAO and FDA, which is 0.02 mg/kg.

Yobe situation

In an extensive study in Yobe, Messrs Mohammed Samibu Dagari, Lani Jafiya, Mohammed Idris and Ahmed Akin Baffa of Federal University, Gashua, discovered high concentration of bromate in bread consumed in Gashua and Nguru communities.

Titled: “Determination of potassium bromate in bread samples from Gashua and Nguru communities of Yobe State, Nigeria” the research was published in International Journal of Science and Technology Research Archive 2022, 03 (01) 058-065.

According to the researchers, bread samples were collected from 14 bakeries in Nguru and Bade local government areas directly from the bakeries in the selected areas.

Studies were conducted in three months (October, December and March).

“The results of potassium bromate in bread samples obtained in this study were 12.16 ?g/g and 0.0001?g/g for highest and the lowest level of KBrO3 found in bread samples consumed in Nguru and Gashua town.

”The potassium bromate levels in the bread samples were determined, using a spectrophotometer at 620 nm. The concentration was calculated from the linear regression curve obtained from the standard solutions of potassium bromate.
“The overall results of the studies for the three months showed that potassium bromate was detected in all the months and was highest among samples collected in Gashua having 0.75±1.76 mg/g and Nguru 0.66 ±1.98 mg/g,” they said.

Cancer in Nigeria

WHO cites cancer as the second leading global cause of death, contributing to 1 in 6 fatalities worldwide.
Approximately 70% of cancer-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income nations, including Nigeria, where the National Cancer Control Plan (2018-2022) indicates a staggering 72,000 annual cancer-related deaths and an estimated 120,000 new cases yearly.

The country’s cancer mortality ratio is alarmingly high, compared to other nations. For instance, while the US reports a 19% breast cancer fatality rate, Nigeria experiences a disconcerting 51% mortality rate.

In December 2023, the Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Prof Usman Aliyu, said over 120,000 new cancer cases were recorded yearly in Nigeria.

Aliyu said in 2020, an estimated 78,000 Nigerians died as a result of cancer-related complications, and out of this number, 44,699 were females, while 34,200 were males.

Although clinical factors such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes are frequently linked to cancer, it is crucial to recognize the toxicological impact of chemical pollutants on human health, as highlighted in the various studies.

Stop using saccharine, bromate in bread production, NAFDAC warns bakeries

Speaking on the issue, NAFDAC warned bakeries across the country against using saccharin and bromate in bread production, saying “we have closed down a few bakeries because they are using bromate during bread production.”
The Director-General of the agency, Mojisola Adeyeye, gave the warning while featuring on the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Forum.

She said bakeries caught in the act would face the full consequences.

“This is where our post-marketing surveillance comes in. We go out routinely to look for certain products; sometimes it may be due to complaints through our reform office.

”We have closed down a few bakeries because they are using bromate during bread production.
“If we find out, or someone suspects or tasted the bread and it has bromate, we will shut the bakery down.”

No cause for panic — Obiazikwor

In a chat with Vanguard, NAFDAC’s Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Mrs Christiana Obiazikwor, said there was no cause for panic because most bakeries no longer use bromate on account of the actions of the agency.

Her words: “We are paying premium attention to bakeries and water factories. We routinely go out on a daily basis to monitor bakeries. Most of them no longer use bromate these days.

”We close down premises that are not hygienic and they remain closed until things are put in order. At a time, it was like we were waging war against bakeries and pure water factories. We have a well-equipped laboratory.

”We test bread regularly, and we have not seen any product that warrants raising an alarm. There is no cause for panic. If you suspect any bakery, come and report to us for necessary action. NAFDAC is not sleeping.”

Our loaves are bromate-free — Professional bakers

Insisting that its members don’t use bromate or saccharine, National Publicity Secretary of Professional Bakers Association of Nigeria, PBAN, Mr Emmanuel Onuoha, urged NAFDAC to sanitize the baking industry by going after quacks.

He told Vanguard: “I am speaking for PBAN. I can’t vouch for those who are not our members or the entire bread industry. We have a clear procedure to rein in our members. We don’t use bromate or saccharine. We are not into those shenanigans.

“The hoopla is misplaced. We are open to scrutiny. NAFDAC should not just warn bakeries, it should carry out covert operations, catch the people and shut down their bakeries.

“Bread making is an art. Come to PBAN and see how we run business professionally. We follow regulations and international best practices. We have been begging NAFDAC to get all bakers to join PBAN for effective monitoring.”

Why we can’t do without bread — Citizens

In spite of the health claims, many bread lovers said they can’t leave the product.

Mr Friday Odiase, said he loves bread because of its “complementarity” with other foods, availability and cost.
“In these days of hardship, with N500 to N600, you can have a meal of bread and beans. You can also eat bread with various things such as butter, akara, tea, moi-moi, soft drink, zobo, kunu, groundnut, pap, egg, stew, jam, fish, pear, banana, etc. The combinations are endless. You can even chew it as snacks with water,” he said.

The researchers in the Port Harcourt study, said in Nigeria, “bread is an important food item because it is readily available and at a very low price. This makes it possible for all income earners to afford it. It is extensively consumed in homes, restaurants, and hotels

“The ever-growing popularity of bread may be associated with its convenience, high acceptability, high energy content, and low level of blood cholesterol associated with its consumption.

I’m addicted to bread

Mr Ebuka Ihenacho, whose favourite meal is bread and tea, said: “Apart the fact that bread is rich in carbohydrate, fibre and some vitamins, I love and enjoy bread because first, as someone that likes an early breakfast, it has always been a hassle preparing breakfast or heating up what was prepared the previous day in the morning.

“With bread, it’s just boiling water for tea which takes all but a few minutes, and breakfast is served. So in some sense, it’s like fast food for me, one can be done with breakfast as quickly as possible and set out to complete other daily activities.

“Let’s face it, bread is delicious, especially when garnished with jam or peanut butter. I eat bread everyday and I can even venture to say that I’m addicted.”

“As someone that suffers from heartburn, triggered by spicy and oily foods, bread has become sort of a comfort food as it does not trigger heartburn but to some extent, soothes it.”

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed the decision to journalists at the State House on Monday, following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu.

The renaming is in honour of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday.

Idris stated that the proposal will be forwarded to the National Assembly for formal approval.

Details shortly… 

The decision was made during the Council’s final meeting of 2024, held on Monday in the Council Chambers of the Statesl House, Abuja.

Speaking to State House Correspondents, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, disclosed that the 2025 framework is based on key economic projections, including an oil price benchmark of $75 per barrel, daily oil production of 2.06 million barrels, and an exchange rate of N1,400 to the dollar.

The proposed revenue for 2025 stands at N34.82 trillion, leaving a projected deficit of N13.13 trillion, which is 3.89% of the GDP.

Bagudu explained that the budget, presented by the Director-General of the Budget Office, Tanimu Yakubu, incorporates amendments directed by President Bola Tinubu.

“Today, the Federal Executive Council approved the budget proposals for 2025 with amendments which Mr president directed following a presentation to the Federal Executive Council led by the Director General of the Budget Office, Tanimu Yakubu.

“The 2025 framework is based on oil price benchmark of $75 per barrel. Oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day. Exchange rate of one 1400 naira (to the dollar).

“All these are already included in the medium term expenditure framework which we have presented here, which have also been approved by the National Assembly.

“So the total projected revenue for 2025 stands at N34.82tn out of which the expenditure is projected at N47.96tn which is an increase of 36.8% from the 2024 estimate. The deficit for 2025 is projected at N13.13tn representing 3.89% of GDP”, Bagudu said.

Meanwhile, the presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly by President Tinubu might not hold on tomorrow (Tuesday).

Reacting to a question after the Council meeting the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed that discussions were ongoing that might lead to the postponement of the budget presentation to Wednesday.

The Minister, who noted that the discussions were yet to be concluded, however said the possibility is there that the budget will be presented to the National Assembly on Wednesday instead of the Tuesday earlier announced by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Akpabio, had, during plenary, last week announced that President Tinubu will present the 2025 budget on Tuesday.

An Ogun based housewife has accused her husband of brutalising her each time she turned down his demand for three rounds of intimacy.

Nine years ago, a family member introduced then Miss Dolapo Olupona to Taiwo Ogunrombi during a visit in Lagos and the two began a relationship that culminated in marriage. However, the relationship that began as a sizzling romance has turned traumatic for Dolapo, a native of Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, on account of Ogunrombi’s alleged sexual drive and brutal attack on her each time she declined his request for three rounds of intercourse.

A few weeks ago, Ogunrombi, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) attached to the Mobile Police (MOPOL 2) Obalende, Lagos State allegedly descended on Dolapo, a trained fashion designer and mother of one, after she rebuffed his demand for multiple rounds of intimacy at their Sango-Ota residence in Ogun State.

“We started our affair on a good note, not knowing that he is the most unfeeling person in this world. He brutalises me for no other reason than sex,” Dolapo said.

“He has a high libido and unrestrained sex drive because of the packaged herbal drinks he consumes all the time. He does not take care of me and refuses that I work despite the fact that I am a trained fashion designer.

“If he finds out that I am working somewhere, he would storm the place, strip me naked in public glare and accuse me of hiding under work to sleep around with other men.

“On October 24 this year, when I rejected his demand for three rounds of lovemaking, he descended on me with fists and belt. He rebuffed neighbours who stormed our apartment until I almost passed out after sustaining injuries and bloodied face from the beatings.

“He has repeated the same thing a few days ago in November, hence I decided to cry out.

“He has refused to release my panties and clothes. He boasts that no one can save me from him and that he can do whatever he likes to me.

“The last time we went for mediation brokered by a television anchor, he told me on our way home that he would still make love to me three times and that there was nothing I could do to stop him.

“When we got home, I ran out of the house for him and slept outside.”

“I have told him several times that I cannot have three rounds of intercourse. Besides, he is not caring at all. He would not allow me to work, yet he wants to make love to me three times on each occasion.

“He should use the energy he is using to brutalise me to handle criminals instead of using it to attack me endlessly.

“I have lost jobs because he would come to my work place and beat me up. My previous employers said they could not retain my services because my husband was using his job as a police officer to destabilise their firms.

“If I don’t cry out now, he might kill me someday and nothing would happen as he boasts.”

She said she had reported her husband to his family but nothing came out of the family intervention as Ogunrombi did not listen to his family members, who asked him to stop brutalising her.

Dolapo added: “He has seven children from different women before I met him.

“When I reported him to his family members, they warned him to desist from brutalising me but he would not listen to them, because he feels that as a policeman, he can do whatever he likes and get away with it.

“He has consistently attacked me and I don’t want to wait till he kills me.

“His children say their father is treating me the same way he treated their mothers in the past. If I knew that he is not a good person, I would not have dated let alone marry him.

“I am not a wayward woman and he knows that I don’t like sex that much. Yet he would demand for three rounds of sex all the time. I do not like the way he treats me.

“I don’t sleep around with men. I have never abandoned home to sleep outside. He knows that I am not a promiscuous woman and I have proved that to him many times.

“He is only not satisfied with one round of sex and he suspects me of infidelity each time I turn down his demand for three rounds, saying that I have enjoyed myself with men outside and that is why I cannot satisfy his sexual appetite.”

Footages obtained by our correspondent showed Dolapo being attended to by a sympathiser shortly after she was allegedly beaten by Ogunrombi, who sat in a chair and blamed Dolapo for her woes.

The sympathiser was seen in one of the footages reprimanding Ogunrombi for the way he treated his wife.

”I am in pains…he has seized my phone after beating me up…if I knew I would not have come home today…pls talk to him to give me my phone so that I can call someone that would treat me of this wound,” Dolapo said in the footage.

Ogunrombi however claimed that he did not beat Dolapo, adding that he only pushed her to the bed when she held his shirt.

“I did not beat her…I pushed her to the bed in order to free myself from her grip when she held me by my shirt,” the policeman said.

An unnamed sympathizer in the footage is heard saying: “You (Ogunrombi) were only molesting your wife unnecessarily. Your marriage was not properly consummated yet you subject her to merciless beatings all the time.

“I don’t know why you would want to kill your wife for nothing sake. It is not as if your apartment is well furnished or tiled.”

The female sympathiser added: “I would have called the landlord of this house to come witness how you have been brutalising your wife. Did you catch her sleeping with a man?

“Are policemen this cruel to their wives…even if your wife is stubborn, must you kill her? This is one brutality too many and it is not good for your image because neighbours now tag you as being very cruel.”

Responding on the telephone, Ogunronbi told our correspondent that the matter had been settled by the anchor of a television programme. He said he was shocked that Dolapo was not satisfied with the outcome of the mediation.

He said: “I cannot say that we did not have a fight or that I did not beat her. But the matter has been settled at a television programme a few days ago.

“The anchor of the programme even asked me to prostrate for her and I did.

“I was angry that she saved a man’s name as her brother on the phone and I saw the flirtatious messages they exchanged and seized the phone from her since I was the one who bought her the phone.

“She flirts around with other men and would not sleep at our apartment for days. She would only return home by the weekend after sleeping around with men while I am away on duty.

“I have not slept with her for three months now because she denied me sex, and I still give her money for feeding and soup.

“I cannot hold her against her wish if she has decided to leave me. However, she should leave if she wants to leave, without further embarrassing me.”

The operation, conducted at a seven-storey building known as the Big Leaf Building at No. 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, led to the apprehension of 193 foreign nationals, including 148 Chinese, 40 Filipinos, two individuals from Kharzartan, one Pakistani, and one Indonesian.

EFCC Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren, disclosed during a press briefing that the raid followed months of surveillance and intelligence gathering on the syndicate’s activities.

The building, designed to mimic a corporate financial headquarters, was allegedly used to train Nigerian recruits in romance and investment scams.

Investigators found the building equipped with high-end desktop computers, and over 500 SIM cards were recovered from just one floor.

The syndicate reportedly recruited Nigerian youths with advanced computer skills, training them for two weeks on impersonation techniques to target victims in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe.

The recruits created fake online profiles to lure victims through platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram. Once trust was established, victims were directed to a fraudulent investment platform, ‘www.yooto.com’, where activation fees started at $35.

Mr. Uwujaren revealed that the Nigerian recruits were unaware of the full scope of the operation. They worked under the supervision of foreign syndicate members and were paid either in cash or through personal accounts without formal employment contracts.

After securing victims, the recruits were cut off from the operation while the foreign kingpins completed the scams.

Recovered items included desktop computers, mobile phones, laptops, and vehicles.

The EFCC has obtained statements from the suspects and screened their devices. All suspects are being detained under a valid remand warrant, with plans to arraign them in court soon.

Mr. Uwujaren highlighted the international nature of the crime, stressing the role of foreign nationals in exploiting Nigeria’s reputation and contributing to global fraud.

“This operation shows that the notion that Nigerians are solely behind these frauds is incorrect. Foreigners are leveraging our unfortunate reputation to establish criminal enterprises,” he said.

The EFCC is collaborating with foreign partners to ensure that the arrested individuals face justice.

“There will be no hiding places for criminals in Nigeria,” Mr. Uwujaren affirmed.

Lukman was reacting to a December 8 newspaper interview where Chief Obasanjo 2024, was quoted to have said that ‘a leader made by Satan is bound to fail, while God’s chosen one will thrive’.

He said to produce godly leaders without satanic genotypes, Obasanjo and other oast leaders like Generals Yakubu Gowon, Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida Abdulsalami Abubakar and former President Goodluck Jonathan have a huge moral obligation of engaging all opposition political leaders in the country to unite in order to produce a functional political party.

In the open letter to Obasanjo, Lukman said; “Everything must be done to put Nigeria on the roadmap of producing Godly leaders. Leaders such as Your Excellency, together with Gen. Gowon, Gen. Babangida, Gen. Abdulsalam, former President Jonathan and former President Buhari have the huge moral obligation of engaging all opposition political leaders in the country to unite in order to produce a functional political party that can serve as the harbinger for the emergence of Godly leaders in the country.

“It is not enough to lament about the fact of Satanic leadership in the country. So long as Your Excellency and other past leaders fail to assert their moral authority in ways that can lead to the emergence of Godly leaders, it is as good as working for the second term of President Tinubu and his team of failed leaders at all levels with all the problems they created.

“Of course, it simply means preference for Satanic leaders.”

He said so long as politics and governance are being diminished to the status of assemblage of cheerleaders, Satanic genotype will continue to be Nigeria’s leadership makeup.

“With such makeup, acts of impunity will continue to drive politics and even if we produce new parties with different names, such parties will at best be PDP and APC cloned. That is exactly what destroyed APC with all the potentials it had in 2015. How can we as a nation change that? Is there any prospect that within the shortest time possible the process of political re-engineering to produce a functional party that can be activated to serve as the harbinger for the emergence of leaders with Godly genotype?

“Your Excellency, this is the crux of this open letter. I believe that within the shortest time possible the process of producing a functional political party, which can be the harbinger for the emergence of leaders with Godly genotype is possible.

“In fact, it has already commenced. However, there are risk factors that if left on their own can pollute the process and take us back to square one and end up with another cloned PDP/APC. Once that is the case, we may end up with worse leaders based on the Satanic logic. The biggest risk factor is the failure to humble all opposition political leaders and get them to unite under one political platform.

“Already, some opposition leaders are resisting efforts to form a united political platform largely because of their subsidiary ambitions to contest elections. On account of such subsidiary ambitions, some are already playing the old hegemonic games of assembling loyalists or cheerleaders. Three of them are former state Governors.

“There is also a group associated with one of the legacy parties that merged to form the APC. This group is already drawing so-called leadership lineup for an imaginary party to be formed by opposition leaders. In many states, they have already chosen so-called Governorship candidates. With such outlook, it logically means they already have their Presidential candidate.

“There are some who are hiding behind some so-called consultation shuttle missions to some of you, notably Your Excellency and other past leaders such as Gen. Gowon and Gen. Babangida. Some of them are springing up regional and ethnic debates in the country and are forming so-called regional ‘democratic’ bodies that are nothing more than aristocrats with the mission of hoodwinking innocent citizens and end up producing another assembly of Satanic leaders for Nigeria in 2027.

“A reputable Nigerian associated with one of the global financial institutions is being alleged to be the financier of one of the so-called regional ‘democratic’ bodies. The old card of imposition and potential strategy to rig 2027 is already rearing its ugly head.

“The point is many political leaders who are expected to team up as a united body committed to producing a functional political party in the country capable of serving as the harbinger for the emergence of Godly leadership in Nigeria are refusing to accept to join forces with other political leaders in the opposition camp. Interestingly, many of them are adjudged to be close to Your Excellency and there are public speculations that you are encouraging them.

“I was privileged to be in the leadership of APC during the 2023 elections and I can say without fear of contradictions that APC won the 2023 elections on account of the division within the opposition. Although I have withdrawn my membership of APC, I can say authoritatively that the current mindset of President Tinubu and APC is to keep the opposition divided as basis for winning the 2027 elections.

“I will emphatically therefore make the point that any political leader in disagreement with the current sad reality or what Your Excellency correctly described as Nigeria having leaders made by Satan who refused to work with other opposition leaders, such a leader is inadvertently working for the electoral victory of APC and President Asiwaju in 2027. And anyone who indulges or support such leaders is also inadvertently working for the electoral victory of APC and President Asiwaju in 2027.

“Many of those inadvertently working for the electoral victory of APC and Asiwaju in 2027 have little or nothing to lose. If anything, these are people whose elasticity for survival is very high, their capacity to make personal adjustments to any situation they are confronted is limitless. They can continue to mismanage politics of the country, and by extension governance on accounts of narrow personal ambitions even if the country is to be destroyed.

“Some of them have citizenships of other countries and those of them who don’t have citizenship of other countries can easily acquire one given their profile, which is partly why they could afford to be reckless and unconcerned about whether Nigeria is held in the grip of Satanic leaders,” Lukman declared.