Nigeria News (Standard)
UNAIDS Warns US Funding Withdrawal May Jeopardise HIV Programmes in South Africa
Global health agency cautions that reduction in support could reverse years of progress and threaten lives across region
Global health agency cautions that reduction in support could reverse years of progress and threaten lives across region
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has raised alarm over the potential withdrawal of United States funding for HIV programmes in South Africa, warning that such a move could lead to loss of lives and undermine hard-won progress in the fight against the virus. The warning was issued on Wednesday, with officials emphasising the stakes for millions who depend on ongoing support.
According to UNAIDS, the United States is currently the largest donor to South Africa’s national HIV response, providing critical resources for testing, treatment, and prevention services. Any significant reduction or withdrawal of this support, the agency said, would threaten access to antiretroviral medication and essential health interventions for those living with HIV.
South Africa has one of the world’s largest HIV epidemics but has achieved major progress over the past decade through international partnerships. The country’s ability to maintain widespread testing and ensure availability of antiretroviral drugs has been credited with reducing AIDS-related deaths and slowing transmission rates. However, UNAIDS officials expressed concern that budget cuts could reverse these gains at a critical time.
“The continuation of US support is vital not only for South Africa but also for global efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat,” UNAIDS stated. The agency urged international partners to reaffirm their commitments. No official statement had been issued by South African authorities or US representatives as at press time.
Public health experts warn that any disruption in funding may force clinics to reduce outreach activities and limit services, potentially resulting in increased new infections and mortality rates. Stakeholders say they are monitoring developments closely while appealing for urgent diplomatic engagement between governments involved.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Amotekun Arrests Couple Over Burglary at Ex-Ondo Speaker Akindele’s Okitipupa Home
Corps recovers seven stolen phones, foils attempt to move valuables to Lagos as third suspect is detained
Corps recovers seven stolen phones, foils attempt to move valuables to Lagos as third suspect is detained
The Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, has apprehended a couple for allegedly breaking into the country home of former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Jumoke Akindele, in Okitipupa Local Government Area. The arrest took place after the incident was reported last week, with the suspects caught as they attempted to move stolen items out of the town.
According to Amotekun officials, Samson Osowe, aged 28, and his wife Ayo Oguneso, 22, were arrested through an intelligence-led operation that tracked seven stolen mobile phones and other valuables. The security operatives intercepted a transporter who was preparing to take the items from Okitipupa to Lagos for resale. The agency confirmed that all items stolen from Akindele’s residence have been recovered.
The incident has raised concerns over persistent property crimes targeting political figures and high-profile individuals in Ondo South Senatorial District. Residents say such cases highlight gaps in conventional policing and underline the importance of community-based security outfits like Amotekun Corps in the South-West region.
Speaking while parading the suspects at the Amotekun headquarters in Akure on Monday, Commander Adetunji Adeleye said: “I’m happy to let you know that all the phones stolen are here in front of the suspects, and the two suspects involved have confessed. Our operatives acted swiftly on intelligence which led to their arrest and also helped us apprehend an accomplice involved in the transportation.” Adeleye added that investigations are ongoing and those found culpable will be handed over to appropriate authorities for prosecution.
Adeleye urged members of the public to continue providing useful information to security agencies. He assured that Amotekun Corps remains committed to protecting lives and property across Ondo State. As at press time, police authorities had not issued an official statement on whether additional suspects are being sought.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Afrobeats Star Peruzzi Reduces Family Ambition, Says Two Children Now Enough Amid Rising Costs
Singer cites changed circumstances as observers link shift to Nigeria’s economic hardship under Tinubu administration
Singer cites changed circumstances as observers link shift to Nigeria’s economic hardship under Tinubu administration
Popular Afrobeats musician Peruzzi has publicly announced a change in his family plans, declaring that he now considers two children sufficient, in contrast to his earlier wish for twelve. The singer made this known on Sunday via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, referencing a post he made six years ago while highlighting how current realities have altered his perspective.
Peruzzi, whose real name is Tobechukwu Victor Okoh, stated in Pidgin English, “Omo, 2 children dey enough. Things don change,” signalling a significant departure from his 2020 desire for a large family. His comments quickly drew reactions from fans and observers online, many of whom connected his decision to Nigeria’s worsening economic situation that has seen even celebrities adjust their priorities.
Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (APC) took office in May 2023, sweeping economic reforms have led to sharp increases in the cost of living and a decline in the purchasing power of most Nigerians. The National Bureau of Statistics reported inflation at over 33 percent as at April 2026. As a result, many households—including those of public figures—are re-evaluating major life decisions.
Social media users responding to Peruzzi’s post joked that the country’s economic conditions had prompted his U-turn. Some referenced his known passion for football as possible inspiration for initially desiring twelve children—the number needed for a football squad—but agreed that present-day realities require more conservative choices. Peruzzi did not elaborate further on the reasons behind his decision apart from stating that ‘things have changed.’
The entertainment industry itself has not been spared by the economic downturn. Reports indicate a slowdown in hit song releases and growing concerns about funding within Nigeria’s music sector. Other celebrities have also become vocal about national challenges: Nollywood actors recently condemned rising insecurity following kidnappings in Oyo State, while rapper Falz joined protests on June 12 Democracy Day alongside human rights lawyer Femi Falana SAN to highlight socioeconomic issues.
As Nigerians continue to grapple with insecurity and rising costs of basic goods and services, public figures like Peruzzi are increasingly reflecting these hardships in personal decisions shared with their followers online.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos-Based Inventor Unveils Rehabilitation Glove to Support Stroke Recovery
New device aims to boost physiotherapy outcomes for stroke patients as experts call for wider local innovation in healthcare
New device aims to boost physiotherapy outcomes for stroke patients as experts call for wider local innovation in healthcare
A Nigerian inventor based in Lagos has launched a rehabilitation glove designed to assist stroke survivors in regaining mobility, with the device unveiled on Wednesday, 24 June. The innovation, which targets the growing population of Nigerians living with post-stroke disabilities, is expected to strengthen rehabilitation support and improve quality of life for patients.
The glove, which utilises mechanical and digital components, was showcased at a medical technology event in Lagos. According to its creator, the device is intended to help users perform exercises that restore hand movement and strength during physiotherapy sessions. Stakeholders at the event highlighted that many stroke survivors across Nigeria struggle with limited access to effective rehabilitation tools, often depending solely on manual therapy.
Stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability in Nigeria, with the World Health Organisation estimating thousands of new cases annually. Health professionals have frequently raised concerns about inadequate infrastructure and shortage of affordable assistive devices for patients undergoing recovery. The inventor’s initiative comes amid calls for increased local production of medical equipment tailored to Nigerian needs.
Medical experts present at the unveiling commended the development as a positive step. “Innovations like this are key if we want better outcomes for our patients,” one attending physiotherapist said during a panel discussion. However, they also urged government and private sector actors to support scaling up local manufacturing. As at press time, officials from the Ministry of Health had not issued an official statement regarding potential adoption or partnership.
Industry observers say that if widely adopted, such technology could reduce reliance on imported rehabilitation aids and lower treatment costs. Further clinical testing and regulatory review are expected before commercial rollout, with stakeholders expressing optimism that homegrown solutions will boost Nigeria’s health sector resilience.
