Nigeria News (Standard)
Dr. Steven Adesemoye Urges Lagos Stakeholders to Launch Men-Focused Mental Health Help Desks
Communication specialist calls for targeted, pro-poor mental health education at Achievers Crew retreat; cites alarming prevalence among Nigerian men
Communication specialist calls for targeted, pro-poor mental health education at Achievers Crew retreat; cites alarming prevalence among Nigerian men
Dr. Steven Adesemoye, a communication specialist and advocate for social reform, has called on stakeholders in Lagos State to urgently establish dedicated mental health help desks tailored for men. He made the appeal on Friday, 19 June, during the annual Achievers Crew retreat in Lagos, emphasising the need for hyperlocal and pro-poor mental health education and support systems.
In his presentation titled ‘The Unspoken Battle: Understanding Men’s Mental Health,’ Dr. Adesemoye highlighted a growing mental health crisis affecting Nigerian men, who he said are often discouraged from expressing vulnerability due to entrenched societal expectations. Addressing an audience of high-achieving men, he noted that common phrases like ‘Big boys don’t cry’ and ‘Man up’ have contributed to a culture where emotional struggles are hidden and seeking professional help is stigmatised.
He referenced recent data from the Federal Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO) indicating that between 20 percent and 30 percent of Nigerians are affected by mental health conditions. Dr. Adesemoye stressed that this reality is even more pronounced among men, who frequently face pressure to maintain a façade of strength while ignoring their own psychological needs.
‘Silence in this room right now is the data,’ Dr. Adesemoye told participants at the event, warning that failing to address men’s mental health challenges could have serious consequences for families and society at large. He urged policymakers, civil society organisations, and corporate leaders to invest in gender-responsive interventions such as community-based help desks specifically designed for men.
The call comes amid growing concern about access to mental health services across Nigeria, with experts warning that stigma and inadequate resources continue to limit help-seeking behaviour—especially among men. No immediate response has been issued by Lagos State Ministry of Health or relevant government agencies regarding Dr. Adesemoye’s recommendations.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Endocrinologist Warns Women Face Higher Risk of Thyroid Disorders
Medical expert attributes increased vulnerability to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, urges early detection
Medical expert attributes increased vulnerability to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, urges early detection
A leading endocrinologist in Lagos State has raised concern over the higher prevalence of thyroid disorders among women, citing hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menopause as major contributing factors. The expert made this known on Saturday, 27 June, while addressing a gathering of health professionals in Lagos.
According to the medical specialist, thyroid diseases—including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism—are more common in women due to the impact of reproductive hormones on thyroid function. The doctor explained that these hormonal changes often trigger immune responses that can lead to thyroid gland dysfunction, especially during life stages such as pregnancy and menopause.
Thyroid disorders can significantly affect metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being. Many Nigerian women remain unaware of their risk or mistake symptoms for other health issues. The endocrinologist emphasised that early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in preventing complications such as infertility, heart disease, or severe fatigue. “Women should pay attention to persistent symptoms like unexplained weight changes, mood swings, or swelling in the neck area,” the expert advised.
The medical community is calling for increased public awareness and routine screening for thyroid disorders among women, especially those with a family history of the condition. The Lagos-based doctor urged government and non-governmental organisations to support educational campaigns and affordable diagnostic services across Nigeria.
With rising cases of non-communicable diseases nationwide, health practitioners warn that neglecting thyroid health could have long-term consequences for women’s health outcomes in Nigeria. Further consultations with specialists are recommended for anyone experiencing persistent symptoms related to thyroid dysfunction.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Vice President Shettima Announces €35bn Nigeria-EU Trade, €26bn FDI at Lagos Business Forum
Federal Government says partnership has created over 130,000 direct jobs as EU pledges deeper economic cooperation
Federal Government says partnership has created over 130,000 direct jobs as EU pledges deeper economic cooperation
Vice President Kashim Shettima has revealed that annual trade between Nigeria and the European Union (EU) now exceeds €35 billion, with European foreign direct investment (FDI) reaching about €26 billion. Shettima made this announcement in Lagos on Thursday during the opening of the 10th Nigeria–EU Business Forum, highlighting the growing economic ties between both sides.
Represented by Princess Zahra Mustapha Audu, Director-General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Shettima described the partnership as a strategic alliance that has moved beyond diplomatic relations to a robust economic collaboration. According to him, more than 130,000 direct jobs have been created in Nigeria through EU investments.
He noted that the annual business forum has become a key platform for translating policy discussions into actual investments and development initiatives. “The Nigeria-European Union Business Forum has evolved beyond a dialogue platform. It has become an important vehicle for translating shared aspirations into investments, commercial partnerships and sustainable growth,” Shettima said in his address.
The Vice President explained that ongoing reforms by government are targeted at making Nigeria more attractive for foreign investment and improving ease of doing business, particularly for European companies operating in sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture and technology. He stated that both Nigeria and the EU remain committed to expanding investment flows, increasing trade volume and supporting private sector partnerships under their recently strengthened Strategic Partnership agreement.
Stakeholders at the forum welcomed the figures as evidence of deepening cooperation but called for more progress in areas like infrastructure, energy transition and inclusive growth. EU representatives reaffirmed their readiness to support Nigerian priorities through targeted investments and technical support. The next phase of engagement is expected to focus on boosting technology transfer, renewable energy projects and job creation across various sectors.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria-eu-economic-ties-hit-e35bn-annual-trade-attract-e26bn-fdi/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigeria’s Top Journalists Exit Newsrooms Amid Poor Pay and Challenging Work Environment
Media professionals in Lagos and Abuja cite stagnating wages, lack of equipment, and hostile conditions as reasons for mass departures
Media professionals in Lagos and Abuja cite stagnating wages, lack of equipment, and hostile conditions as reasons for mass departures
A growing number of leading Nigerian journalists are leaving established newsrooms in Lagos and Abuja, with many citing not just low remuneration but also unfavourable working conditions and limited career progression as major factors. The trend, which became more pronounced since early 2026, has sparked concern among industry observers about the future of investigative journalism in the country.
Journalists who have exited major media houses point to stagnant salaries that have failed to keep pace with inflation, as well as a lack of access to modern equipment and training opportunities. Some former editors from Lagos-based outlets said that even experienced staff are increasingly seeking better prospects outside traditional media—either abroad or in corporate communications roles—due to frustration with management practices and a culture that discourages dissent or innovation.
The development comes at a time when Nigeria’s media sector faces mounting financial pressures. According to analysts, declining advertising revenue and rising operational costs have forced many publishers to freeze wages and reduce newsroom budgets. This situation is compounded by political interference and threats to press freedom, making it difficult for journalists to carry out their duties effectively.
Industry groups like the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have called on both government and media owners to urgently address these challenges. “Journalists deserve fair pay, safe working conditions, and professional respect,” an NUJ official said during a recent meeting in Abuja. However, some media executives argue that the business environment makes significant pay increases unrealistic at this time.
As more experienced reporters exit the profession or move into other sectors, stakeholders warn that the quality of news reporting may decline further. Observers stress the need for urgent reforms to retain talent and safeguard the role of journalism in Nigeria’s democracy.
