Editorial
Addressing Dangers Of Fake Medical Labs
The news of the closure penultimate weekend, of as many as 938 quack Medical Laboratories, spread across 17 states of the Federation and Abuja, by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) presents yet, another opportunity, to address some specific medical needs of the people and the dangers we face.
Announcing outcome of the council’s random inspection of medical laboratories and the eventual sealing of the ill-equipped many, Registrar of MLSCN, Mrs Elizabeth Okonkwo revealed that apart from the affected laboratories not being duly registered, they also lacked basic operational equipment and technical knowhow to produce near accurate results from medical tests.
A total of 2,131 facilities, she said, were inspected by the council, the last lap of which covered Rivers, Ebonyi, Nasarawa and Borno States, with very worrisome revelations.
In Ebonyi State, for instance where, 41 private laboratories were assessed along with the Federal Medical Centre, Abakaliki and others in Afikpo, the second largest town in that state, as many as 26, representing 63.4 per cent were sealed. But that is not all.
Earlier, the council had inspected 20 private laboratories in Maiduguri metropolis, Borno State, where, seven were sealed for various offences ranging from quackery, unethical practices to inadequate equipment and manpower.
“In about three laboratories sealed, a student medical laboratory scientist was in charge, he was arrested and handed over to the police. Two other similar cases were recorded in hospital-based laboratories where, technicians were in charge of running full medical laboratory services,” the report further revealed.
The case of Nasarawa and Rivers States were not entirely different from the rest except that of a total of 74 laboratories inspected in the latter, 25 were sealed for various reasons ranging from corner-cutting, lack of relevant equipment and outright quackery.
Sadly, in all the cases, the illegal laboratories branished in their request forms, claims of proficiency in and capability to performing all forms of medical tests, to mislead the gullible public.
Even more worrisome is the discovery that in many of the affected laboratories, human blood was illegally being stored in standard domestic refrigerators, not bothering over its attendant risks, while in other instances, the council uncovered the culturing of 14 samples in a single chocolate agar plate and four samples in single plate, all none-standard practices, which, the council considered grossly unethical.
These are, without doubt, very serious medical concerns bothering on human lives that should not be treated haphazardly. We say so because, neither can we tell how many Nigerians might have died on account of futile treatment of ailments arising from results of tests by these quack laboratories nor can we envisage how many more could follow.
In a country, like Nigeria, with a high phobia for the HIV/AIDS malaise, there is indeed no way of telling how many might have suffered psychological deaths due to inaccurate medical test results neither can we accurately say how many are on the danger list.
These are why, while commending the MLSCN for its effort at sanitising that aspect of our medical sector, The Tide calls for an even more thorough investigation, that is not limited to city centres alone, as was the case.
Instead, the council should spare no effort at reaching out to the most gullible of the human chain in Nigeria, the huge population of the nation’s rural poor and save them many more avoidable deaths. This, it can do by publishing accredited centres which members of the public can patronise as against quacks where ever they may be.
With such transparency, regular monitoring and punishment of quacks, we believe, there will be some measure of sanity in our health sector.
We dare say, that it was for the preponderance of quacks in the key sector of human life that the fiery romanticist Anton-Paviorich Chekhov of the Vanov fame once said, “Doctors are just the same as lawyers, the only difference is that lawyers merely rob you, whereas doctors rob you and kill you too.”
We do not agree entirely with this suggestion, but we do fear that some criminals in the practice of medicine and other allied services may, if not quickly checked, lend potency, to another great thinker, James Bryce’s 1914, New York warning, “Medicine is the only profession that labours incessantly to destroy the reason for its own existence.”
Now is the time to save lives and prove Bryce wrong.
Editorial
HIV, Transiting From Donor Dependence

The initial announcement by United States President, Donald Trump, to cut funding for international
HIV/AIDS initiatives sent shockwaves through the global health community. In Nigeria, a country facing a significant HIV/AIDS burden, the potential consequences were dire. However, the subsequent waiver granted by the administration has provided a lifeline for the millions of Nigerians who rely on the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) for their treatment and support.
PEPFAR has been an important partner in Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS. Since its inception in 2003, PEPFAR has committed more than $7.8 billion to the country, catering to approximately 90 per cent of HIV treatment requirements. With this funding, Nigeria has been able to enhance its HIV prevention, treatment and support services and has witnessed a reduction in HIV/AIDS deaths.
The waiver granted by the Trump administration guarantees that PEPFAR’s life-saving medicines and medical services will continue to reach the needy. Antiretrovirals (ARVs) are the most common type of medicine used to treat HIV and reduce the virus’ spread. Through the provision of ARVs, PEPFAR helps prevent the spread of HIV and enhances the quality of life of those with the condition.
Although Nigeria was recently exempted from the requirement, the signs are evident: the country has to graduate from dependence on donor funds for its HIV/AIDS control programmes. Over the years, partners including the U.S. government have been central to the provision of treatment to people living with the virus. However, it is time for Nigeria to own its national response to HIV/AIDS.
Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS burden remains critical, accounting for 10 per cent of the global total. In 2023 alone, there were 75,000 new infections and 45,000 HIV-related deaths. The battle against Mother-to-Child Transmission remains challenging, with only 35 per cent of the target 75 per cent being met. Nearly 1.7 million Nigerian children have been orphaned due to HIV. Vulnerable populations, especially women and children, continue to disproportionately suffer.
To transition away from donor dependence, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, the country must increase its domestic financing for HIV/AIDS programmes. This can be accomplished through innovative funding mechanisms, such as leveraging public-private partnerships and exploring local revenue sources. Secondly, the government needs to strengthen its healthcare system to ensure equitable access to testing, treatment, and care. This involves expanding access to antiretroviral drugs, investing in community-based models, and addressing the stigma associated with HIV.
Thirdly, Nigeria must prioritise prevention efforts. This entails promoting condom use, providing comprehensive sexual education, and increasing awareness about the risks and modes of transmission. By focusing on prevention, the country can decrease the incidence of HIV infections and ultimately lessen the burden on its healthcare system.
Finally, Nigeria should develop a sustainable human resource strategy for its HIV/AIDS response. This involves training and equipping healthcare workers, engaging community volunteers, and empowering people living with HIV to advocate for their rights. A well-trained workforce is essential for delivering high-quality services and ensuring the long-term success of the response.
The transition beyond donor dependence is a complex but necessary journey for the country. By increasing domestic financing, strengthening healthcare systems, prioritising prevention, and investing in its human resources, the country can create a sustainable and effective response to HIV/AIDS. Also, the government should consider alternative funding mechanisms, such as increased domestic funding, public-private partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives. The time to act is now, for the well-being of present and future generations.
Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has made momentous strides in combating HIV/AIDS, including expanding access to testing, treatment, and education. However, challenges persist, hindering the effectiveness of these efforts.
One major obstacle is limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. This impedes timely diagnosis and treatment, reducing the likelihood of optimal outcomes for those living with HIV. Additionally, stigma surrounding the disease remains a formidable barrier, preventing individuals from seeking testing and care. Inadequate awareness campaigns further contribute to low testing rates and delayed diagnosis.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted action by the government and stakeholders. Allocation of adequate funding is crucial to expand healthcare infrastructure and ensure the availability of essential services. Moreover, targeted interventions to reduce stigma and promote awareness are vital for increasing testing and early detection.
Collaboration between civil society organisations and grassroots movements is also essential for advocating for protection of HIV funding. Advocacy campaigns can mobilise public support and pressure lawmakers to prioritise the fight against HIV/AIDS. By addressing these challenges and ensuring sustainable funding, Nigeria can depend less on donor countries, drastically reduce HIV transmission, and provide the necessary care to those affected by the disease.
Editorial
Israel-Gaza War: Sustaining The Ceasefire

Editorial
No To Hike In Telecom Tariffs

Nigerians are outraged by the Federal Government’s approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs, with organised labour threatening to mobilise workers to boycott telecom services. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have described the upcoming tariff as outrageous, lamenting that it will worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers and the masses.
Similarly, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) rejected the hike, stating that it was ill-timed and did not take into consideration the struggles of Nigerians. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also criticised the review, calling it an illegal, unconstitutional, and oppressive policy that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms of Nigerians. It is a difficult moment for the industry.
Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 per cent increase in tariffs for telecom operators last Monday, instead of the 100 per cent raise that operators had requested. This decision quickly angered the consumers’ association, which criticised the government’s approval as not only punitive but also insensitive.
We wholeheartedly agree with the stance of labour and other groups on this very sensitive matter. We unequivocally condemn the 50 per cent increase in telecom tariffs. Though telecom operators cite higher operational costs and inflation as reasons for the hike, the timing and impact raise serious concerns in the current economic situation. It is a blatant attack on the well-being of the Nigerian worker and a betrayal of the people to corporate interests.
Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. However, the average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of N70,000, this means an increase from N7,000 to a staggering N10,500 per month or 15 per cent of their salary, a cost that is unsustainable.
This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. It is shocking that the government approved a 50 per cent tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.
The questions are: When will the government stand up for the citizens it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the Executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man finally heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria? We urge the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to review the implementation of this ill-advised increase.
It is difficult to understand the state of mind of the managers of the nation’s economy. Sadly, these managers have alienated themselves from the reality of today. How can a government approve a 50 per cent hike in the tariff of telecom services when even the N70,000 minimum wage has been eroded by inflation, electricity tariff hikes, exorbitant fuel costs, transportation, and other social services?
Even if there is a need for an increase, why does it have to be 50 per cent? If, after dialogue, it is agreed that a raise is necessary, we should all consider a more reasonable increase rather than the 50 per cent hike. Fifty per cent is excessive and will only worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers, placing a heavier burden and more suffering on them and the general population.
The recognition of telecommunication services as essential components of modern society cannot be overstated. In an era characterised by rapid digital transformation, these services are fundamental not only for personal communication but also for facilitating broader socio-economic engagement. The proposed tariffs increase in the telecom sector raises critical concerns regarding equitable access to vital services that support communication, education, healthcare, and commerce.
In a democracy, the people should be the central focus of all government actions and policies. Every decision should aim to improve their quality of life. This plan must be carefully scrutinised with the welfare of citizens in mind. An increase in telecom tariffs will negatively impact many Nigerians, as the internet has become an essential tool for business, communication, and daily activities.
The Tide calls for the immediate suspension of the 50 per cent hike in tariffs. Instead, we recommend a more reasonable adjustment of a maximum of 10 per cent, which balances industry sustainability with the current economic realities in the country. We also demand that the NCC engages in genuine, inclusive consultations with consumer advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and other grassroots stakeholders before implementing any tariff adjustments.
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