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Articles by Grace Johnson
Why young Nigerians should check their blood pressure before it’s too late
A Lagos cardiologist has raised concerns about hypertension among Nigerians aged 28 to 35. Undiagnosed high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious heart complications and premature death. Regular medical check-ups, healthier diets and reduced salt intake can help lower cardiovascular risks. People with a family history of hypertension are encouraged to monitor their blood pressure regularly.
Lagos health insurance becomes mandatory in 2027: what residents and employers should know
Lagos State has introduced the Lagos Private Health Plans (LPHP) to expand health insurance coverage among salaried workers and corporate organisations. Residents have until December 31, 2026, to obtain health insurance before enforcement begins on January 1, 2027. Twenty-one Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) have partnered with the state to provide coverage through the new scheme.
Ebola outbreak: DRC death toll nears 5,000 as US introduces new travel rule
The Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded 10,141 confirmed Bundibugyo Ebola cases and 4,928 deaths. Genetic testing links Ebola cases in Nigeria and Kenya to the outbreak in the DRC. The United States will introduce a new travel declaration for international air passengers from November 3. Health officials have warned that the outbreak could spread further if preparedness remains inadequate.
WHO corrects misleading headlines says Nigeria has not been declared Ebola-free
The World Health Organization says Nigeria has not been officially declared Ebola-free. The clarification follows the medical evacuation of the country’s confirmed Ebola patient to Switzerland. Health authorities are continuing to trace and monitor people who may have been exposed to the virus. Nigeria must complete the required 42-day period without new cases before the outbreak can be declared over. WHO has urged media organisations to correct headlines that misrepresent its statements.
JAMB asked to extend admission deadline to give Nigerian students more time
House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education Chairman, Oboku Oforji, has appealed to JAMB to extend the 2026/2027 admission deadline. Public universities are expected to conclude admissions by October 31, 2026. Private universities have until November 30, while other tertiary institutions have until December 31. Oforji says an extension would give qualified candidates more time to secure admission.
Oyo allied health professionals begin indefinite strike over unpaid allowances
Allied health professionals under the Oyo State Hospitals’ Management Board have begun an indefinite strike over unmet welfare demands. The industrial action followed the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued to the state government. The union is demanding teaching allowances, promotion benefits, call duty allowances and other outstanding entitlements. NUAHP says its members have repeatedly suspended planned strikes following government appeals, but promised resolutions have not materialised.
Nigerian physiologists turn to AI to improve medical research and healthcare
The Society for Medical Physiology of Nigeria has urged physiologists to adopt artificial intelligence and strengthen local medical research. Experts say research reflecting Nigerians’ genetic diversity, lifestyles, nutrition and environment could improve healthcare outcomes. The society introduced an inter-university physiology quiz competition to improve medical students’ knowledge and encourage collaboration.
Nigeria to install disease surveillance systems at five airports after Ebola threat
The Federal Executive Council has approved N45.8 billion for a biosecurity and disease surveillance system at five international airports. The project aims to improve Nigeria’s ability to detect Ebola and other infectious diseases at the country’s borders. More than 18 million passengers travel through Nigerian airports annually, according to the health minister. The government says identified Ebola contacts must complete 21 days of quarantine to prevent further transmission.
Kaduna trains school sports teachers to discover Nigeria’s next generation of athletes
Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board (KADSUBEB) has organised a two-day workshop to improve school sports development. The training brought together sports masters, physical and health education teachers, and coaches from the state’s three senatorial zones. Participants were trained to identify talented pupils and guide them towards suitable sporting opportunities. Officials say school sports can improve pupils’ physical and mental well-being while supporting academic performance.
FG to monitor healthcare access to vulnerable Nigerians under BHCPF
The Federal Government has identified 3.182 million vulnerable Nigerians for health coverage under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). National health insurance enrolment increased from 16.2 million in 2023 to 23.06 million by the third quarter of 2026. The government has released N323.6 billion to the fund, with an additional N40.7 billion approved for disbursement. Direct financing currently covers 8,309 primary healthcare centres, with plans to expand to 13,521 facilities.
Dangote refinery turns to AI as Honeywell projects $60m in annual benefits
Byline: Business and Technology Desk | October 26, 2026 Honeywell is deploying an artificial intelligence platform at Nigeria’s Dangote refinery in Lekki, Lagos. The platform could generate approximately $60 million in annual gross benefits at full-capacity throughput, based on preliminary estimates. The technology will leverage computing capabilities from NVIDIA and Dell Technologies to improve industrial productivity and profitability.
UNICEF urges Nigeria to review education curriculum for digital jobs
UNICEF has called for a review of Nigeria’s education curriculum to address the gap between graduates’ skills and employers’ needs. The organisation says outdated teaching programmes leave many young people unprepared for the modern workplace. UNICEF and Airtel Africa are collaborating to expand access to digital learning and youth skills development. The partnership, backed by a $57 million investment across 13 African countries, aims to improve digital inclusion and employability.
Lagos strengthens Ebola surveillance assures residents no case reported
The Lagos State Government says there is currently no confirmed Ebola case in the state. Health authorities are strengthening disease surveillance and screening measures at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Residents have been advised to watch for Ebola symptoms and seek prompt medical assessment if they suspect exposure. The government has urged travellers to cooperate with health officials and provide accurate travel information.
Ebola Alert: Uganda Tightens Border as Nigeria investigates virus Source
Uganda has introduced a mandatory 21-day quarantine for citizens returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Nigeria is investigating an imported case of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola involving a woman who recently travelled through Uganda. Uganda says 60 contacts linked to a Kenyan Ebola patient completed monitoring without developing symptoms. Health authorities are reviewing travel records and genomic evidence to establish the source of the Nigerian infection.
Nigeria’s Ebola patient flown to Switzerland after showing signs of improvement
Nigeria has evacuated its first confirmed imported Bundibugyo Ebola patient to Switzerland for further medical care. The 42-year-old woman was reportedly clinically stable and showing significant improvement before her departure from Abuja. Her husband accompanied her on Monday and remains asymptomatic. Health authorities have identified 53 primary contacts linked to the case and are monitoring them.
Nigeria’s oncology Nurse shortage threatens cancer care
Nigeria has an estimated 300 oncology nurses, raising concerns about the country’s capacity to meet growing cancer care needs. Nursing professionals are calling for improved welfare, better training opportunities and greater involvement in healthcare decisions. The migration of trained nurses is worsening staffing shortages in cancer treatment facilities. Experts want nursing students to be introduced to oncology early to encourage more professionals to specialise in the field.
FCT ebola case: NCDC tracks 53 contacts as patient shows improvement
The NCDC has identified and followed up 53 contacts linked to Nigeria’s confirmed Bundibugyo Ebola case in the FCT. The 42-year-old female patient has reportedly improved and remains under medical care in isolation. Laboratory confirmation was made on October 20 after the patient developed symptoms following travel from Uganda. Health authorities have activated a national response, strengthened surveillance and urged Nigerians to cooperate with contact-tracing teams.
Why Your Earrings Are Doing More Work Than Your Foundation
Accessories are becoming a simple way to express personal style without relying on heavy makeup. Statement earrings, layered necklaces and vintage jewellery can transform even the simplest outfit. Social media and growing interest in individual style are encouraging people to embrace personality over perfection. Choosing durable accessories can also support a more thoughtful approach to fashion consumption.
France reports world’s first human case of shamonda virus
French health authorities have reported the first officially documented human infection with the Shamonda virus. The patient, who was severely immunocompromised, died in early October. Investigators believe the infection may have resulted from the bite of an infected Culicoides midge in eastern France. Authorities say no risk to the general population has been identified so far.
How AI is changing the way we work in 2026
Remember when the workday meant arriving at your desk, opening your email, checking a few spreadsheets, sitting through meetings, and finally heading home when the clock hit five? That version of work is slowly disappearing. In 2026, artificial intelligence is no longer something people only talk about in tech conferences or science-fiction movies. It has quietly found its way into everyday work.
Neuralink brain implant helps man with ALS speak again using his thoughts
Neuralink has demonstrated how its brain implant helps a man with ALS communicate using a computer-generated version of his original voice. Terry is the third participant in the company’s VOICE clinical study. The technology translates brain activity linked to speech into words and spoken audio. The implant remains experimental and has not received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration.
Labadi beach hotel targets more Nigerian travellers as Ghana tourism market grows
Labadi Beach Hotel says Nigeria remains a major market for its hospitality business. Nigerians visit Ghana for holidays, company retreats, business trips and festive celebrations. The hotel says service excellence, food and guest experience are key reasons visitors choose the property. Its management believes proximity between Lagos and Accra offers significant opportunities for cross-border tourism.
BBC launches award winning free educational lessons to Hausa-speaking children across West Africa
BBC World Service is launching Dars Hausa, an educational programme for children aged 11 to 16 across West Africa. The programme will provide lessons in English, mathematics and science, alongside mental health content and inspirational stories. The initiative comes as millions of Nigerian children remain out of school because of insecurity, displacement and other barriers to education. The first series will feature 12 episodes and launch on November 17.
Nigeria moves to equip students with job-ready digital skills
The Federal Government is repositioning Nigeria’s education system to address the gap between graduates’ qualifications and labour market demands. Education Minister Tunji Alausa identified artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing and data analytics as important skills for future employment. Schools and tertiary institutions are being encouraged to integrate practical projects, internships and industry-recognised certifications into their programmes.
UNICEF, Airtel Africa expand free digital learning to nearly 2,000 Nigerian schools
UNICEF, Airtel Africa and the Federal Government have expanded free digital learning to nearly 2,000 schools across Nigeria. The initiative has reached about one million students and more than 20,000 teachers. More than 19,000 teachers have received digital literacy training under the partnership. Students are gaining access to digital skills, mentorship, internships and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Pro-Tinubu group urges Nigerian Students to back president’s re-election
A pro-Tinubu group, Relax, Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN), has urged Nigerian students to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. The group highlighted the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and other government programmes as reasons students should consider policy continuity. RTIFN plans to extend its political sensitisation campaign to universities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
South African AI innovation wins global recognition for speeding up medicine and vaccine trials
South African clinical research technology company BioInformatiCo has placed second in the 2026 CDISC AI Innovation Challenge with its AI platform, Leova. The platform automates key steps in preparing and testing clinical trial databases, potentially reducing delays and costs. In one study, Leova cut database testing and validation from five days of specialist effort to one day. The innovation comes as funding pressures threaten research programmes and healthcare initiatives in South Africa.
Benin to host 2027 black travel summit as global event comes to Africa for the first time
Benin will host the 2027 Black Travel Summit in Cotonou, marking the event’s first edition on the African continent. The summit will bring together travel professionals, tourism leaders, entrepreneurs and content creators from across the world. The event aims to create business opportunities and strengthen connections between Africa and its diaspora. The partnership with Benin Tourism is expected to expand the summit’s international reach.
Broda Shaggi returns after reported shooting promises to tell his story
Nigerian comedian Broda Shaggi has returned to social media months after reports that he was shot while filming a comedy skit in Ogun State. An emotional Instagram video showed the entertainer reflecting on an incident he described as one of the worst days of his life. Shaggi has promised to share his story, prompting renewed interest from fans and colleagues. The circumstances surrounding the reported shooting and the extent of his injuries remain unclear publicly.
Kaduna hotels reach full capacity ahead of Tinubu’s campaign launch
Hotels across Kaduna are reporting full room bookings ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s campaign launch scheduled for Saturday. Several hotels said all available rooms had been reserved as visitors arrived for the APC presidential campaign event. Some facilities continue receiving enquiries despite having no rooms left to offer. The influx of visitors is expected to boost demand for accommodation and other hospitality services across the city.
Kano activates emergency operations centre after Ebola case reported in Abuja
The Kano State Centre for Disease Control has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre following the reported Ebola case in Abuja. Kano officials say the centre is on high alert, urging residents to remain calm and follow prevention guidelines. Residents with fever and other warning signs who may have been exposed are advised to contact health officials immediately. Health facilities across Kano have been directed to strengthen infection prevention and control measures.
JOSTUM suspends school fees increase for 2026/2027 session
Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, has suspended its proposed undergraduate school fee increase for the 2026/2027 academic session. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaac Itodo said the decision followed consultations and concerns raised by students. The university plans to protect its academic calendar and recover time lost to strikes and other disruptions. Itodo urged students to express grievances peacefully and use established channels for dialogue.
Experts donate defibrillator to push nationwide CPR training to save lives
Cardiology experts have donated a public access defibrillator to the University of Abuja to support emergency response to sudden cardiac arrest. The Nigerian Cardiac Society is promoting nationwide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training through its “Bring Back to Life” programme. Health advocates say immediate CPR can help keep a cardiac arrest victim alive before professional medical assistance arrives.
7 Science-backed ways to boost your energy without Caffeine
Be honest. How many coffees have you had today? For most of us, caffeine has quietly become less of a choice and more of a requirement. We don’t drink it because we want to; we drink it because we’re convinced we can’t function without it. And maybe that used to work. But if you’ve ever felt the 2 pm crash, the mid-afternoon brain fog, or the jittery anxiety that comes with one cup too many, you already know the problem. Sustainable energy doesn’t require caffeine at all.
How to set goals you will achieve.
Every January, millions of people write down their goals with full confidence. By February, most of those lists are forgotten. By March, they barely remember what they wrote. Sound familiar? The problem isn’t your ambition. It’s not your circumstances either. It’s your approach. Setting goals is easy. Anyone can write a list. Sticking to them is a skill, and like any skill, you can learn it, practise it, and improve it.
High cost of dental care in Nigeria leaves patients struggling to access treatment
High prices of imported dental equipment, materials, and hospital operating costs are making dental treatment increasingly difficult for many Nigerians to afford. Depreciation of the naira and rising energy expenses are contributing to higher healthcare bills. Limited health insurance coverage forces many patients to pay out of pocket, leading some to delay or abandon recommended dental procedures.
The Human Body rebuilt: how 3D printing is changing the future of surgery and transplants
Imagine a surgeon preparing for an operation and reaching for an implant that was created specifically for the patient sitting on the operating table. Not manufactured for thousands of people. Not chosen from a standard size. Designed around one person’s body. That future is already beginning to take shape. 3D printing has moved far beyond plastic prototypes and engineering workshops.
High cost of dental care in Nigeria leaves patients struggling to access treatment
High prices of imported dental equipment, materials, and hospital operating costs are making dental treatment increasingly difficult for many Nigerians to afford. Depreciation of the naira and rising energy expenses are contributing to higher healthcare bills. Limited health insurance coverage forces many patients to pay out of pocket, leading some to delay or abandon recommended dental procedures.
The future of hospitality and tourism: skills every graduate needs to succeed
Digital technology, including artificial intelligence and automation, is reshaping how hotels, travel agencies, and tourism businesses serve their customers. Sustainability has become an important part of hospitality education, with greater attention to environmental protection and responsible tourism. Data analytics, financial management, and digital marketing are helping tourism professionals make smarter business decisions.
The Human Body rebuilt: how 3D printing is changing the future of surgery and transplants
Imagine a surgeon preparing for an operation and reaching for an implant that was created specifically for the patient sitting on the operating table. Not manufactured for thousands of people. Not chosen from a standard size. Designed around one person’s body. That future is already beginning to take shape. 3D printing has moved far beyond plastic prototypes and engineering workshops.
IDG: Nigerian NGO calls for immediate end to child marriage
The Helpline Social Support Initiative (HSSI) has called for urgent action to end child marriage and strengthen the protection of girls’ rights. HSSI President Dr Jumai Ahmadu says empowering girls through education, confidence-building and leadership is essential to securing their future. The organisation wants stronger child-protection laws, safe schools and confidential reporting channels for girls facing abuse.
Evanna Empowerment Initiative equips bakers in Lagos with essential baking supplies
Grace Ilesanmi, Founder, Evanna Empowerment Initiative, and Board Member, Mrs Osuji, with beneficiaries of the bakers initiative. Evanna Empowerment Initiative (EEI) has concluded a two-day drive held across cities in Nigeria including Lagos, Owerri, Abuja, and Abeokuta from 25 to 26 September 2026, providing bakers with essential baking materials to support their craft.
7 AI tools that will save you 10 Hours a week; no tech skills needed
Let me be straight with you. Most articles about AI productivity tools read like a software catalogue. They list 47 apps, describe each one in two vague sentences, and leave you more confused than when you started. This isn’t that article.
How to plan a 7-Day trip entirely with AI from flights to hidden gems .
Gone are the 14 open browser tabs, the conflicting TripAdvisor reviews, the hours lost to building spreadsheet itineraries, and the lingering anxiety that you’ve missed the best deal. In 2026, AI travel tools handle most of the hard work building full trip plans, comparing routes, suggesting local places, tracking price changes, and even fixing schedules in real time if flights get delayed or weather changes. What used to take a week of research can now be done in an afternoon.
The best sleeping position: What science really says
In The Princess and the Pea, a young woman proves she is a real princess because she can feel a tiny pea under a stack of mattresses. The story suggests that her sensitivity proves her royal status. But if you asked a modern sleep expert, they might say her discomfort had more to do with how she was sleeping rather than what was under the bed. Today, science shows that your sleeping position plays a big role in how well you sleep. But is there one “best” position?
Top 7 health technology breakthroughs in 2026 that are life changing
Healthcare is entering a new era, and 2026 is proving to be a turning point. Technology is no longer just supporting doctors behind the scenes, it is now directly improving how people live, detect illnesses, and stay healthy every day. What once seemed like futuristic ideas are now becoming part of real-life healthcare systems. From artificial intelligence to advanced medical devices, these innovations are not just improving treatment they are helping prevent diseases before they become serious.
How your home environment is secretly shaping your mood and success
Your home is more powerful than you think. It’s not just where you sleep or relax — it’s the space that quietly shapes your thoughts, your habits, and even your future. Every day, your environment sends signals to your brain. These signals influence how you feel, how you think, and what you do. Over time, they can either push you forward or hold you back. Your Space Affects Your Mood Think about how you feel when you walk into a clean, bright room. You probably feel calm, focused, and in control.
Health expert warns against excessive use of soursop leaves
A health expert warns that overuse of soursop leaves may cause serious health problems. Claims about soursop treating diseases like cancer and diabetes are not fully proven in humans. Excessive consumption may affect the nervous system and blood pressure. Experts say herbal remedies should be used carefully and with medical guidance. Pregnant women and people with certain health conditions are advised to avoid it.
WLSA launches nationwide medical outreach to support vulnerable Nigerians
Women Leaders Support Advancement (WLSA) plans a nationwide medical outreach. The programme will start in Northern Nigeria before moving nationwide. Over 1,500 women and children have already benefited in Kano. Services include free consultations, drugs, tests, and referrals. The initiative aims to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable groups.
Experts call for return of mother tongue education in Nigeria
Education experts are urging Nigeria to reinstate its National Language Policy. They say children learn faster when taught in their first language. Experts warn that over-reliance on English is weakening local languages. Challenges include lack of teachers and learning materials in indigenous languages. Stakeholders are calling for stronger policies and investment in mother tongue education.
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