Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigeria Moves to Expand MMS Supplementation for Pregnant Women Nationwide
Federal health authorities announce push for wider access to micronutrient supplements, aiming to reduce maternal and child mortality rates
Federal health authorities announce push for wider access to micronutrient supplements, aiming to reduce maternal and child mortality rates
The federal government has unveiled plans to scale up the coverage of multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) for pregnant women across Nigeria, targeting improved maternal and child health outcomes. The announcement was made on Friday, 12 June, as part of ongoing efforts to address persistent challenges in maternal nutrition nationwide.
According to officials, the expanded programme will prioritise antenatal clinics in primary healthcare centres, especially in rural and underserved areas where malnutrition among expectant mothers remains prevalent. The Ministry of Health said the initiative is designed to combat micronutrient deficiencies that contribute significantly to maternal deaths and low birth weight among newborns.
Nigeria continues to face one of the highest rates of maternal and infant mortality globally, with nutrition-related complications cited as a major cause. Health experts argue that while iron and folic acid have traditionally been provided during pregnancy, broader MMS coverage is necessary to address gaps in other vital nutrients such as vitamin A, zinc, and iodine. The latest move aligns with recommendations from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and recent research supporting comprehensive supplementation for pregnant women.
A senior official at the Ministry of Health stated that pilot schemes have shown promise in several states and that lessons learnt will inform the national rollout. “We are committed to ensuring every pregnant woman can access these essential micronutrients regardless of location or income level,” the official said. No figures were given for target beneficiaries or budget allocation at this stage.
Health advocates have welcomed the announcement but called for transparent implementation and regular monitoring. They emphasised that effective distribution systems and community education are crucial if Nigeria is to meet its targets under global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Further details on state-level deployment are expected from federal authorities in coming weeks.
Nigeria News (Standard)
House Minority Caucus Appoints Afam Ogene as Spokesperson in Abuja Shakeup
Appointment comes as opposition seeks stronger voice ahead of critical legislative debates in National Assembly
Appointment comes as opposition seeks stronger voice ahead of critical legislative debates in National Assembly
The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has appointed Afam Ogene, representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State, as its new spokesperson. The announcement was made on Sunday in Abuja, marking a significant move by opposition lawmakers to strengthen their communication strategy ahead of key legislative sessions.
The decision to appoint Ogene was reached during a meeting of Minority Caucus members, who resolved that improved coordination and public engagement were needed as the National Assembly enters a period expected to be marked by high-stakes debates on national issues. The selection signals the caucus’s intent to project a more unified front in interactions with both the media and the Nigerian public.
Ogene’s appointment comes at a time when opposition parties are under increased pressure to hold government accountable and articulate alternative policy proposals. As spokesperson, he is expected to serve as the primary liaison for all official communications from the caucus, including responses to legislative developments and government pronouncements.
While no official statement has been released by Ogene following his appointment, sources within the Minority Caucus indicated that he will begin his duties immediately, starting with briefings on upcoming legislative priorities. The caucus leadership said it expects Ogene’s experience and familiarity with parliamentary procedures to help sharpen opposition messaging in the House.
The Minority Caucus has also hinted at further appointments and strategic planning sessions aimed at consolidating its position ahead of anticipated debates on budget allocations, electoral reforms, and other pressing national matters.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Reps Minority Caucus Accuses House Spokesperson of Misrepresenting Executive Defence in Abuja
Opposition lawmakers challenge official narrative, demand clarification on House of Representatives’ position over executive matters
Opposition lawmakers challenge official narrative, demand clarification on House of Representatives’ position over executive matters
The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has accused the official spokesperson of the lower chamber of misrepresenting the House’s position on executive defence matters. The development unfolded in Abuja on Sunday, 21 June 2026, as opposition lawmakers publicly questioned recent statements attributed to the House’s spokesperson regarding the legislature’s stance on issues involving the executive arm of government.
According to details made available, members of the Minority Caucus raised concerns that comments by the spokesperson did not accurately reflect deliberations or decisions taken by the broader House. They insisted that such statements risked misleading Nigerians and misrepresenting the position of elected representatives, particularly regarding oversight functions and defence of executive actions.
This dispute comes at a time when relations between Nigeria’s National Assembly and the presidency have drawn increased public scrutiny. Many observers see robust legislative oversight as critical for deepening democratic accountability, especially amid ongoing debates over checks and balances between arms of government.
The Minority Caucus called for greater transparency and adherence to established procedures when communicating official positions. “We urge all principal officers to ensure their public statements are in line with resolutions reached during plenary and reflect consensus among lawmakers,” a member stated during a briefing in Abuja.
As at press time, no formal response had been issued by the House spokesperson or other principal officers. The Minority Caucus urged Speaker Tajudeen Abbas (APC, Kaduna) to intervene and clarify the official position of the House on executive-related matters moving forward. This incident is likely to intensify discussions about internal communication protocols within Nigeria’s federal legislature.
Nigeria News (Standard)
APC’s Faduyile Wins Ondo South Senatorial By-Election, Consolidates Party Hold in South-West
Victory strengthens APC’s Senate majority as opposition parties pledge to challenge result in Ondo Tribunal
Victory strengthens APC’s Senate majority as opposition parties pledge to challenge result in Ondo Tribunal
The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Faduyile, has emerged winner of the Ondo South Senatorial by-election conducted on Sunday, 21 June 2026. The election, which took place across the six local government areas of Ondo South Senatorial District, saw Faduyile secure a clear lead over his rivals from other major parties.
According to results announced by electoral officials at the senatorial collation centre in Ondo State, Faduyile polled the highest number of votes, beating his closest opponents from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP). The by-election was held following the declaration of vacancy for the seat earlier this year.
The Ondo South Senatorial seat is considered strategic due to its influence in both state and national politics. Political observers say the APC’s victory further cements the party’s dominance in the South-West geopolitical zone ahead of forthcoming general elections. The contest attracted attention from stakeholders across Nigeria, with observers noting a relatively high voter turnout compared to previous by-elections in the region.
Although official figures were yet to be released as at press time, INEC officials confirmed Faduyile’s victory was based on certified results from all local government areas. Leaders of the PDP and LP have rejected the outcome, alleging irregularities during collation. They announced plans to file petitions before the Ondo State Election Petition Tribunal to contest the declared result.
With this win, APC now controls two out of three senatorial seats in Ondo State. Political analysts expect heightened activity within opposition camps as preparations begin for next year’s governorship election. Meanwhile, Faduyile is expected to receive his certificate of return from INEC in Akure later this week.
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