Nigeria News (Standard)
NICRAT DG Says Private Sector Key to Boosting Cancer Care in Nigeria
Director-General stresses need for corporate investment to bridge funding gaps in cancer diagnosis and treatment nationwide
Director-General stresses need for corporate investment to bridge funding gaps in cancer diagnosis and treatment nationwide
The Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) has emphasised that private sector involvement is crucial for improving cancer care delivery across Nigeria. Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, the NICRAT DG highlighted that government resources alone are not enough to address the rising burden of cancer cases and improve patient outcomes nationwide.
According to the NICRAT chief, public health facilities often face shortages of equipment and trained personnel, leading to delays in diagnosis and limited access to lifesaving treatments. He noted that increased partnership with private investors can help provide modern diagnostic machines, support training of health workers, and fund awareness campaigns aimed at early detection.
Cancer remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, with thousands of new cases reported annually. Experts say most patients present at advanced stages due to lack of awareness and inadequate screening services. The NICRAT DG stressed that without substantial private sector investment, efforts to reduce cancer-related deaths may fall short, especially in underserved communities.
He called on banks, telecommunications companies, oil firms and other major players in Nigeria’s economy to channel part of their corporate social responsibility budgets into cancer care initiatives. “Private sector participation will not only enhance service delivery but also ensure sustainability of intervention programmes,” the DG stated.
While government continues to invest in primary healthcare centres and regional cancer treatment hubs, stakeholders say collaborative funding models involving both public and private partners are needed for long-term impact. The institute plans to convene a national summit later this year to engage business leaders on concrete partnership frameworks for supporting Nigeria’s fight against cancer.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Designer Veekee James Unveils Baby Eliana’s Face After Weeks of Anticipation
Fans celebrate as Veekee James and husband Femi Atere reveal first official photos of newborn daughter in Lagos
Fans celebrate as Veekee James and husband Femi Atere reveal first official photos of newborn daughter in Lagos
Popular Lagos-based fashion designer Veekee James and her husband, Femi Atere, have officially unveiled the face of their daughter, Eliana Adeife Atere, following weeks of public anticipation. The announcement was made on Tuesday, 11 June 2026, through a series of heartwarming photos shared online, captivating fans across Nigeria.
Veekee James, known for her influence in the Nigerian fashion industry and her highly-publicised wedding celebrations in 2024, had kept her daughter’s face private since Eliana was born on 2 May 2026. The couple’s decision to finally share the images comes after sustained interest from fans who have closely followed their journey into parenthood. The photos feature Veekee cradling baby Eliana and include close-up shots of the newborn dressed in a black tulle outfit.
The birth of Eliana marks a significant milestone for the couple, who have faced intense media attention over the past year due to their elaborate wedding events and online controversies. Veekee James previously explained that her daughter’s name combines “EL” (God) and “ANA” (He has answered), reflecting what she described as a profound answer to prayer. The designer has continued to document her experiences as a new mother with an active social media presence.
Reactions from fans have been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing joy at finally seeing baby Eliana’s face. Several high-profile figures in the Nigerian entertainment industry also extended congratulatory messages online. No official statement has been issued by Veekee James regarding further media access to her family.
With the public reveal now complete, industry observers expect continued interest in both Veekee James’s personal life and professional projects. The designer remains one of Nigeria’s most influential creative voices, with over three million followers on Instagram.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/veekee-james-reveals-baby-eliana-face-photos-2026061109030693095
Nigeria News (Standard)
Presidency Disowns Group Claiming to Represent Nigeria on Foreign Intervention
Aso Rock distances self from ‘Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council’, says group has no official mandate
Aso Rock distances self from ‘Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council’, says group has no official mandate
The Presidency in Abuja on Thursday disowned a group operating under the name ‘Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council’, clarifying that the body is not recognised by the federal government. The statement was issued amid concerns over unauthorised individuals or organisations claiming to represent Nigeria in diplomatic matters.
According to information released from Aso Rock, no such council has been established or authorised to speak or act on behalf of President Bola Tinubu or any official arm of government. The clarification comes following reports that the self-styled council had begun reaching out to foreign partners, presenting itself as a legitimate channel for intervention in Nigeria’s affairs.
This development is significant as it comes at a time when questions have been raised over the proliferation of unofficial groups claiming ties to State House, especially regarding sensitive diplomatic and international relations matters. Such claims have caused confusion among stakeholders and foreign missions, some of whom have sought verification from Nigerian authorities.
A presidency official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment publicly, said: ‘There is no Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council endorsed by this administration. Any group making such claims is acting independently and without mandate.’ Efforts to reach individuals associated with the purported council for comment were unsuccessful as at press time.
With this clarification, the federal government has warned both local and international stakeholders to verify all engagements with officially recognised bodies before taking further action. Observers say the move is aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s diplomatic image and preventing misrepresentation in international fora.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Super Eagles Fall 2–1 to Portugal as Iwobi Reaches 100th Cap in Lisbon Friendly
Portugal secures narrow win over Nigeria in international friendly; Alex Iwobi marks historic century appearance for national team
Portugal secures narrow win over Nigeria in international friendly; Alex Iwobi marks historic century appearance for national team
The Super Eagles of Nigeria were narrowly defeated 2–1 by Portugal in an international friendly match played at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon on Thursday night. The fixture, which provided both teams with a crucial test ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures, saw Alex Iwobi reach his milestone 100th appearance for Nigeria.
Portugal took the lead early in the first half through a well-taken effort, applying sustained pressure on the Nigerian defence. The hosts doubled their advantage before the break, capitalising on a defensive lapse from the Eagles. Nigeria rallied in the second half, with Alex Iwobi at the centre of attacking moves, eventually pulling one back to reduce the deficit. Despite several late attempts, the Super Eagles could not find an equaliser.
The match was significant for Nigeria, with Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi joining an exclusive list of players to have earned 100 caps for the national team. His performance was marked by creativity and leadership on the pitch as he orchestrated play from midfield and created key chances for his teammates.
While both sides used the friendly to assess squad depth and experiment with tactics, Portuguese manager and Super Eagles technical crew alike fielded strong line-ups. The encounter gave Coach Finidi George an opportunity to test new combinations ahead of future AFCON qualifiers. Speaking after the match, team officials commended Iwobi’s commitment and highlighted areas for improvement ahead of upcoming fixtures.
With this result, Portugal maintains momentum on home soil while Nigeria will look to regroup and address defensive lapses before resuming competitive action. Fans and stakeholders have praised Iwobi’s landmark achievement as a testament to his dedication and consistency for the Super Eagles.
