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Fresh respiratory virus: FG tightens monitoring, to quarantine China passengers

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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Federal Government on Sunday said it would activate surveillance measures for inbound passengers from China following the current surge of a respiratory virus.

Reports indicate that the virus has led to overcrowded hospitals, emergency measures and public concerns in China.

The virus, attributed to the Human Metapneumovirus, has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children. Neighbouring countries such as Cambodia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong are closely monitoring the HMPV situation, having reported a few cases but no widespread outbreaks, according to reports.

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According to Chinese authorities, there has been a noticeable increase in HMPV cases, especially among children under 14 years old in northern parts of the country. Social media posts, accompanied by videos of overcrowded hospitals, have sparked fears of a larger-scale health crisis.

In response to the rising cases, the Chinese government announced measures, including constant monitoring of cases, the adoption of masks, social distancing and disinfection of public spaces to curb the increase of the virus.

The new virus outbreak is coming five years after the emergence of a novel coronavirus – COVID-19 – in Wuhan, China, which was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation on March 11, 2020.

So far, COVID-19 has infected 777 million people globally and killed over seven million, according to WHO.

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However, while both HMPV and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses, there are important differences. HMPV typically causes milder symptoms such as a cold or flu, while COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, can lead to more severe health complications and long-term effects.

HMPV is also a seasonal virus, similar to other cold-causing pathogens like RSV, and infections usually peak during the winter months. HMPV, like COVID-19, spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes and it can also spread via contaminated surfaces.

However, officials from the National Health Commission stated that while respiratory diseases are expected to rise during the winter months, the overall situation this year is less severe than last year.

Beijing also downplayed the developments as an annual winter occurrence.

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China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday, “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year,” she said.

A pilot programme was launched by China to track pneumonia of unknown origin, ensuring labs and health agencies reported and managed cases more effectively, state broadcaster CCTV reported, quoting an administration official at a news conference.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said HMPV could cause upper and lower respiratory diseases in people of all ages, especially among young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

The U.S CDC noted that HMPV is most likely spread from an infected person to others through secretions from coughing and sneezing, close personal contact and touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them, then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

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“Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath. Clinical symptoms of HMPV infection may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia and are similar to other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory infections. The estimated incubation period is three to six days, and the median duration of illness can vary, depending upon severity but is similar to other respiratory infections caused by viruses,” the US CDC stated.

Meanwhile, health authorities in Nigeria are already implementing emergency measures to monitor and manage the spread of the HMPV.

The Director, Special Duties, Office of the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr John Oladejo, told The PUNCH on Sunday that the Federal Government would implement preventive measures by activating surveillance measures to curb the spread of the virus.

Earlier in November 2024, global health body WHO noted that it was closely monitoring the situation and was in close contact with national authorities in China, adding that it would continue to provide updates as warranted.

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Based on the available information, WHO recommended that people in China followed measures to reduce the risk of respiratory illness, which include recommended vaccines against influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory pathogens as appropriate; keeping distance from people who are ill; staying home when ill; getting tested and medical care as needed; wearing masks as appropriate; ensuring good ventilation; and practicing regular hand washing.

“WHO does not recommend any specific measures for travellers to China. In general, persons should avoid travel while experiencing symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, if possible; in case of symptoms during or after travel, travellers are encouraged to seek medical attention and share travel history with their health care provider.

“WHO advises against the application of any travel or trade restrictions based on the current information available on this event,” the body added.

First detected in Pakistan in 2001, the HMPV has caused several outbreaks over the years in the Asian nation, primarily affecting children, but the virus is new to Africa as there haven’t been reported cases on the continent.

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“Human Metapneumovirus was first identified in Pakistan in 2001, and outbreaks have been reported since then,” an official at the National Institute of Health, Islamabad, said.

“In 2015, a study conducted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences found 21 cases of HMPV in children hospitalised with severe lower respiratory tract infections.”

Meanwhile, medical experts have stated that implementing surveillance measures against the virus was a crucial and appropriate step in ensuring that it doesn’t spread to the country.

They emphasised that surveillance should be an ongoing process carried out continuously by the government.

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A virologist at the Department of Virology, College of Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Dr Moses Adewumi said, “On good day, surveillance should always be part of us. What happens most times is that despite the amount that was voted for COVID-19, we seem to have relaxed. Our people are more interested in spending the money, and after that, we probably decide to go to sleep. So, the surveillance should be a continuous thing.

“It is good that we increase our surveillance for people coming into the country, especially from China, Japan and other places, where we have the outbreaks. The government should be more involved in surveillance because most of the surveillance and all the research we do is funded by foreign bodies, so our own government should be more interested in research, in surveillance for all these viruses.

“The virus is not new but the surge may be because there is a different variant, and that is why we need to increase our surveillance and monitor it closely to curtail its introduction into the country. Experience has taught us that if we check now, we may have our people with antibodies already, and that’s a confirmation that it’s likely that this is circulating here, maybe not the exact variants that they have now.”

Also, an Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases and Genomics in the Department of Microbiology at the Adeleke University, Osun State, Oladipo Kolawole, noted that the decision by the government to implement surveillance measures was a good one, adding that it aimed to monitor and control the potential spread of the virus, ensuring public health safety as the situation developed.

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Kolawole said, “The government is likely to enhance screening processes at points of entry and provide guidelines for travellers from China, this is to mitigate risks associated with HMPV. Activating surveillance allows for the early detection of cases, which is essential in managing outbreaks effectively. Monitoring travellers from regions experiencing outbreaks can help identify and isolate cases before they spread within the community.

“Also, quarantine for inbound passengers from the affected regions can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. It serves as a precautionary measure to ensure that individuals who may be infected do not unknowingly spread the virus to others. Finally, this situation underscores the importance of preparedness in public health systems.”

Meanwhile, Hong Kong has reported a few cases of HMPV following the outbreak in China while Cambodia’s Communicable Disease Control Department issued warnings about the virus, noting its similarity to COVID-19 and influenza.

Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control said the virus poses higher risks for children, the elderly and immuno-compromised individuals.

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In neighbouring India, officials said there was no need for panic as HMPV is “like any other respiratory virus.”

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President Tinubu’s Address In Ghana At John Mahama’s Inauguration [Full Text]

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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, has expressed confidence in Ghana’s newly sworn-in President, John Mahama, to bring positive change and progress to his nation.

Tinubu, accompanied by several Nigerian governors, attended the swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, describing it as a testament to democracy’s growth in Africa.

In a statement delivered during the event and released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu lauded the peaceful transition of power facilitated by former President Nana Akufo-Addo. He emphasized that the ceremony symbolized Ghana’s democratic maturity and Africa’s capability to achieve political and economic milestones.

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Tinubu pledged Nigeria’s unwavering support to Ghana and its people, reaffirming his dedication to strengthening bilateral ties and fostering unity across Africa. He highlighted the importance of mutual cooperation in tackling shared challenges, including poverty, unemployment, instability, and insurgency.

“It is always a moment of pride when a close neighbor succeeds. Today, we celebrate not just Ghana’s democracy but Africa’s progress,” Tinubu said. He underscored the continent’s achievements in proving critics wrong, stating, “Africa has nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves. We are charting our path to success, lifting our nations out of poverty, and building resilient economies.”

Tinubu commended President John Mahama’s vision and patriotism, describing him as a leader deeply committed to Ghana’s mission and prosperity. “Your new president is a man of substance and vision who loves his nation and its people. He is determined to guide Ghana toward fulfilling its destiny,” Tinubu remarked.

He further drew inspiration from Ghana’s founding leader, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, celebrating the shared heritage between Ghana and Nigeria. “The spirit of Nkrumah lifts Ghana’s Black Star higher. As Nigeria draws strength from its founders, Ghana does the same, creating a bond that unites our nations in purpose and action,” he said.

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Tinubu urged Ghana’s new administration to prioritize regional integration through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), emphasizing that cooperation is vital for addressing the region’s pressing concerns. He called for unity, dialogue, and mutual respect among African nations, asserting, “Even when we disagree, we must resolve our differences through dialogue, ensuring our unity remains intact.”

President Tinubu concluded his address by expressing optimism for Africa’s future. “This is not just a victory for Ghana but a victory for African democracy. Let us continue to build a future filled with hope, opportunity, and prosperity,” he stated.

In closing, Tinubu extended his blessings to Ghana, Nigeria, ECOWAS, and the entire African continent, wishing the new government under President Mahama immense success. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with Ghana to achieve shared prosperity and progress.

“May Ghana’s democracy grow stronger. May the bond between our nations remain unbroken. Together, we shall overcome our challenges and create a brighter future for all Africans,” Tinubu said.

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Fired staff sue CBN, demand N30bn compensation

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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Fired staff members of the Central Bank of Nigeria who were relieved of their jobs in a mass layoff last year have dragged the bank before the National Industrial Court of Nigeria in Abuja.

In an originating summons, filed on July 4, 2024, under the NICN Civil Procedure Rules 2017, the aggrieved staff members raised several questions for determination.

The Ex-CBN staff members among others, are asking the court to determine whether they were denied their constitutional right to a fair hearing before and after their appointments were terminated while they claimed that the CBN violated internal policies, Nigerian labour laws, and their contractual rights.

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The claimants, Stephen Gana, Kabiru Idris, Benedict Agbo, Peter Adeyemi, John Yisa, Eleanor Ihua, Stephen Ambore, Edom Obi, Dabo Chundung, Ekpe-Oko Roupa, Alabi Mubarak, Isa Yusuf, Quadru Ralph, Olasupo Adedokun, Dauda Yusuf, Ogidi Tolu, Levi David, Umar Kurba, Christopher Alfred, Gana Nma, Tanko Joel, Iyare Christian, Paul Iza, Alzebeokhai Esiemokhai, Pius Odunze, Isiuwe Uwadiahu, Vivienne Usoro, Imoh Francis, Ofili Lydia, Onunkwor Christopher, Adeshina Nurudeen, Bukar Ahmed and Ajayi Omosolape.

All 33 of them, represented by Okwudili Abanum, in a class action lawsuit, argued that the termination process, carried out through letters, titled, ‘Reorganizational and Human Capital Restructuring’, dated April 5, 2024, violated both the CBN human resources policies and procedures manual and Section 36 of the Nigerian constitution.

Adding that the process lacked the necessary consultation and fair hearing mandated by law.

They also stated that the termination letters, issued based on restructuring, were arbitrary, illegal, and unconstitutional.

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On this note, the claimants sought an order declaring their dismissal null and void.

Additionally, the claimants sought a restraining order to prevent the CBN from firing them without following the proper procedures

They also prayed to the court for a declaration ordering their immediate reinstatement, and payment of salaries and benefits from the date of termination.

The suit referenced Article 16.4.1 of the HRPPM, which mandates consultation with the joint consultative council and adherence to fair procedures before employment actions adversely affect staff.

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The claimants noted that the provision was flagrantly disregarded, as they were given just three days to vacate their positions and hand over official property.

They also sought N30 billion in general damages for psychological distress, hardship, and reputational harm caused by the dismissal; and an additional N500 million as the cost of the suit.

In another document dated November 20, 2024, during the first mention of the suit, the court urged the parties in the dispute to seek an amicable resolution of the matter.

The presiding judge, Justice O. A. Osaghae said “This is a new matter, it is mentioned for the 1st time. I have looked at the processes and it is my view that parties should attempt an amicable resolution of this dispute. Consequential, parties are encouraged pursuant to section 20 of the NICA 2006, to attempt amicable settlement”.

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Meanwhile, the CBN represented by a team of lawyers led by Inam Wilson informed the court that they had filed a preliminary objection to the claimants’ suit dated November 4, 2024, and he had recently been served with the claimants’ wish to respond to the counter.

Justice Osaghae, following the defendant’s counsel submission, adjourned to January 29, 2025, for a hearing of the preliminary Objection.

Recall that in 2024, the apex bank terminated the appointments of about a thousand staff in four batches between March and May of the aforementioned year.

While some laid-off staff claimed that they received severance payments as low as N5,000, others said their gratuities were absorbed entirely to offset outstanding loans.

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Although the layoff was officially attributed to reorganisation and human capital restructuring, the affected staff argued that the process violated the CBN Act, which mandates board approval for significant employment decisions.

On December 4 last year, the Central Bank said its early exit package was entirely voluntary and without any negative repercussions for eligible staff.

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Plan For Payment of N77, 000 To Corps Members Concluded – NYSC DG

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Director General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, has re-assured corps members that they would start receiving N77,000 minimum wage.

Speaking in Abuja when he commissioned a staff bus donated by Capital Express Insurance company, the DG said arrangements for their increased allowances to be paid have been concluded.

He assured corps members that his priority was their security and welfare, hence in 2025 they would get all benefits that they deserve.

Ahmed noted that the bus donated to the scheme for staff was to ease transportation issues.

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He noted that staff of the scheme and corps members serving in the scheme have always complained that it was difficult for them transporting themselves to and from office.

On his part, Chief Executive Officer, Capital Express Insurance company, Mr. Matthew Ogwezhi, said the scheme and his company have been in partnership for a while and the donation was part of the partnership to support the activities of the scheme.

He said the company made the donation to support the staff transportation to and from work as the price of fuel and transportation was expensive in the Abuja metropolis.

He said the legacy of every organization is the impact they make in the society they find themselves, hence, they should always give back to the society.

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