JOB VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

The Rivers State Civil Service Commission invites applications from qualified candidates to fill various vacant positions in the State Civil Service. This follows the approval of His Excellency, Chief Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, GSSRS, POS (AFRICA), the Executive Governor of Rivers State, to employ ten thousand eligible youths into the State Civil Service. If you meet the requirements for any of the positions, kindly submit your application for consideration.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications must be made online (FREE) at the Commission’s dedicated website (www.rscsc.ng) with the following attachments:
Recent Passport Photograph
Typed and Signed application
Professional Qualifications
Degree/HND/ND Certificate
WASC/SSCE/NECO
First School Leaving Certificate
Birth Certificate/Sworn Age Declaration
Local Government Identification
NYSC Discharge Certificate/Exemption
Evidence of current practice license and registration with professional regulatory bodies
All certificates must be from recognized institutions.

Applicants are required to print out a hard copy of the submitted application form.

All shortlisted applicants will be notified via email, sms and on the Rivers State Civil Service Commission Website (www.rscsc.ng)

NOTE

Applicants must not be less than 18 years or more than 50 years of age
Applicants must possess the minimum qualification for the position he/she is applying for.
Applicants who apply for more than one (1) position will be disqualified
Applicants who are already in the Rivers State Government Service are not eligible to apply

CATEGORY A

Accountant: Candidate must possess a degree in Accounting or Accountancy
Administrative Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in the Social Sciences, Humanities or Arts.
Architect: Candidate must possess a degree in Architecture or Final I examination of the Nigeria Institute of Architects.
Anesthetic Technician: Candidate must possess certificate/diploma in Anesthetics.
Assistant Dental Technologist: Candidate must possess ND in Dental Technology.
Assistant Education Officer: Candidate must possess National Certification in Education.
Assistant Procurement Officer: Candidate must possess HND in Business Administration, Economics, Statistics, Accountancy, Law, Insurance, Management, Banking and Finance, Quantity Surveying, Engineering and Computer Science.
Auditor: Candidate must possess a degree in Accounting or Accountancy.
Biomedical Engineering Technology/Technicians: Candidate must possess ND/HND in Biomedical Engineering Technology
Commercial Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Economics, Business Administration, Co-operative Management, Commerce or Marketing.
Confidential Secretary: Candidate must possess a degree in Secretarial Administration
Cultural Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Fine Arts, Music, Theatre Arts, Linguistics or Journalism.
Curator: Candidate must possess a degree in Anthropology, History, Sociology, Fine Arts or Music.
Data Processing Officer: Candidate must possess ND in Computer Studies or Data Processing.
Data Processing Assistants: Candidate must possess S.75, JSSC or GCE (Ordinary level) with three credits at one sitting or four credits at two sittings.

Dental Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Dental Surgery.
Dental Surgery Technician: Candidate must possess diploma (ND) in Dental Surgery.
Dental Technologist: Candidate must possess HND in Dental Technology.
Dental Therapist: Candidate must possess an ND/HND in Dental Therapy.

Dietician: Candidate must possess a degree or HND in Dietetics.
Dispensing Optician: Candidate must possess diploma/certificate in dispensing opticianry.
Education Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Education.
Engineer: Candidate must possess a degree in Engineering (Agriculture, Civil, Chemical, Marine, Gas, Electrical, Mechanical, Petroleum, Computer, Industrial etc).
Environmental Health Officer. Candidate must possess a degree in Environmental Health Science/Management or a related course.
Environmental Health Superintendent: Candidate must possess HND in Environmental Health Science.
Executive Officer (Accounts): Candidate must possess HND in Accounting or Accountancy.
Executive Officer (Revenue): Candidate must possess HND in Accounting or Accountancy.
Executive Officer (General Duties): candidate must possess ND in Business Administration/Studies or Public Administration
Fisheries Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Zoology, Fisheries, Biology, Bio-Chemistry or Agriculture.
Geologist: Candidate must possess a degree in Geology.
Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist: Candidate must possess a degree in Geology or Applied Geology.
Information Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Arts, Journalism, Mass Communication, Social Sciences or English Language.
Inspector of Taxes: Candidate must possess a degree in Accountancy, Business Administration or Economics.
Labour Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Arts, Social Sciences or Law.
Land Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Estate Management or Land Economy
Librarian: Candidate must possess a degree in Library Studies.
Livestock Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Zoology, Animal Sciences, Animal Husbandry/Animal Production, Agriculture or Range Management.
Medical Imaging Technicians: Candidate must possess ND in Medical Imaging Technology
Medical Imaging Technologist/Radiographer: Candidate must possess a degree/HND in Radiography/Medical Imaging Technology
Medical Laboratory Scientist: Candidate must possess a degree in Medical Laboratory Science.
Medical Laboratory Technician: Candidate must possess WASC/SSCE and evidence of completion of a three-year training in a recognized institution, and obtained the registration of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology of Nigeria for Technician cadre.
Medical Laboratory Technologist: Candidate must possess Associate Membership of the Institute of Medical Laboratory technologist of Nigeria, WASC or SSCE plus the National Diploma of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology (obtained after four years course) and registration with the medical Laboratory Council of Nigeria for Health Technologist.

Medical Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Medicine/Surgery (MBBS or MBBCH)
Medical Records Technician: Candidate must possess Associate Membership of The Association of Medical Records Technicians, Associate Membership of Chartered Institute of Secretaries and Administrators, and Certificate of Registration of the Institute of Medical Laboratory technology for Technician Cadres after successful completion of the prescribed three years’ training programme.
Nursing Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Nursing.
Nursing Superintendent: Candidate must be a Registered Nurse /Midwife.
Optometrist: Candidate must possess a degree in Optometry or equivalent qualification.
Orthopedic Cast Technologist: Candidate must possess a diploma in Orthopedic Cast Technology.
Pharmacist: Candidate must possess a degree in Pharmacy.
Pharmacy Assistant: Candidate must possess Pharmacy Assistant Certificate.
Pharmacy Technician: Candidate must possess the Pharmacy Technician Certificate
Physiotherapist: Candidate must possess a degree in Physiotherapy from a recognized institution and membership Certificate of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists.
Planning Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Economics, Statistics.
Procurement Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Business Administration, Economics, Statistics, Accountancy, Law, Insurance, Management, Banking and Finance, Quantity Surveying, Engineering and Computer Science.
Programme Analyst: A candidate must possess a degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics.
Quantity Surveyor: Candidate must possess a degree in Quantity Surveying.
Scientific Officer (Health, Water Resources, Environment): Candidate must possess a degree in Physics, Geophysics, Bio-Chemistry, Chemistry, and Microbiology.
Social Welfare Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Sociology or Physical or Health Education or Social Works.
Social Works Superintendent: Candidate must possess a diploma in Social Works or ND in Social Development.
State Counsel: Candidate must possess a degree in Law and must have been called to the bar.
Statistician: Candidate must possess a degree in Statistics and Mathematics.
Surveyor: Candidate must possess a degree in Land Surveying or Survey Engineering, Geodetic Science or Geodetic Engineering.
Technical Officer (Survey, Works, Town Planning, Water, Transport, Health, etc ): Candidate must possess HND in any of the Technical Officer Fields.
Tourism Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Tourism, Arts or Social Science.
Town Planning Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Urban and Regional Planning or Town Planning.
Veterinary Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Veterinary Medicine or Science.
Youth Development Officer: Candidate must possess a degree in Social Science or Physical and Health Education.

CATEGORY B

Artisan/Craftsman: Candidate must possess FSLC and a pass in the Trade Test Class III, II, I.
Cameraman: Candidate must possess ND in Mass Communication or Cinematography
Cleaners/Gardeners: Candidate must be physically fit and able-bodied.
Clerical Assistant: Candidate must possess Junior Secondary School Certificate or GCE O/Level in three subjects obtained at one sitting.

Clerical Officer: Candidate must possess WAEC/NECO with 4 credits at one sitting or 5 credits at two sittings.
Driver: Candidate must possess a minimum of FSLC, S.75, WAEC or NECO with a valid Class ‘C’ Driving License.
Messenger: Candidate must possess FSLC
Official Reporter: Candidate must possess WAEC and a Diploma with evidence of computer literacy.
Security Guards: Candidates must possess FSLC and evidence of either training in the Nigerian Police, Military or paramilitary.
Store Assistant: Candidate must possess WAEC, NECO OR SSCE.
Veterinary Laboratory Assistant: Candidate must possess WAEC with a pass in Chemistry
Works Superintendent: Candidate must possess ND in a relevant subject, NABTEB.

All applications MUST be submitted on or before 10th April, 2023

REGISTER TODAY
Visit the Rivers State Civil Service Commission recruitment portal to begin your application

The post Rivers State Announces 10,000 Job – Apply Now (April 2023) appeared first on Every Nigerian.

While the CBN did not announce a specific deadline for the closure of the portal, the issue that has arisen is causing concerns for those who have not yet deposited their old Naira notes. The error message that users receive, which reads “Account number validation failed,” has been persisting for several days now, regardless of the time of day that the user attempts to generate the deposit reference.

This error message has caused great frustration and confusion among users, who are unable to complete the deposit process without the deposit reference. This situation has led to uncertainty about the status of the portal and whether there is a deadline for depositing old Naira notes and if it will be extended beyond the election period.

The lack of information from the CBN about the status of the portal and any potential extension of the deadline has left many users feeling uncertain and anxious about the process of depositing their old Naira notes. In order to ensure a seamless and efficient process for all citizens, it is imperative that the CBN provides clear and timely communication about the situation and any updates related to the portal.

We call on the CBN to urgently address this issue and provide a resolution for the error message that users are encountering. It is crucial that the CBN keeps the public informed about any developments and provides clear instructions on how to overcome any issues that may arise during the deposit process.

In conclusion, we urge the CBN to take immediate action to fix the error message on the portal and provide clarity to the public about the status of the portal and any potential extension of the deadline for depositing old Naira notes. The deposit of old Naira notes is an important process that must be made accessible and efficient for all citizens. We trust that the CBN will prioritize resolving these technical issues to ensure a seamless process for all users.

The post Users Stuck as CBN Portal for Old Naira Notes Collection Encounters Validation Issues appeared first on Every Nigerian.

Advantages of Herbal Medicine:
Some of the strong points of herbal medicine include:

• Natural and holistic approach: Herbal medicine uses plant-based remedies that are derived from nature, which some people prefer as it is considered a more natural and holistic approach to healthcare.
• Fewer side effects: Compared to conventional medicine, herbal remedies tend to have fewer side effects, as they are derived from natural sources.
• Accessibility: Herbal medicines are often easier to obtain and more affordable than conventional medicine, making them a popular choice for many people.

Disadvantages of Herbal Medicine:

• Lack of regulation: Herbal medicine is not effectively regulated by NAFDAC, meaning that there may be inconsistencies in the quality and potency of herbal remedies.
• Lack of scientific evidence: While some herbs have been used for centuries, there is often limited scientific evidence to support their efficacy, making it difficult to determine their safety and effectiveness.
• Interactions with conventional medicine: Herbal remedies can interact with conventional medicines, leading to negative side effects.

Advantages of Conventional Medicine:

Some of the advantages of English medicine include

• Scientific evidence-based: Conventional medicine is based on rigorous scientific research, making it a reliable and effective approach to treating many medical conditions.
• Quick and effective: Conventional medicine often provides fast relief from symptoms and can be a more effective approach for serious or life-threatening conditions.
• Widely available: Conventional medicine is widely available through hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, chemists(drug stores) making it easy to access.

Disadvantages of Conventional Medicine:

• Side effects: Conventional medicine can have significant side effects, some of which can be severe or long-lasting.
• Cost: Conventional medicine can be expensive, particularly if the patient requires surgery or long-term treatments.
• Dependence: Conventional medicine can lead to dependency, as patients may need to take medication long-term to manage their condition.

What are the challenges of regulating herbal medicine in Nigeria?

Regulating herbal medicine in Nigeria presents a number of challenges, including:

• Lack of standardization: Herbal medicine production in Nigeria is largely unstandardized, which makes it difficult to ensure consistent quality and potency of products.
• Limited scientific evidence: There is limited scientific research on the efficacy and safety of many herbal remedies used in Nigeria, making it challenging to regulate their use.
• Unskilled practitioners: Many herbal practitioners in Nigeria are unskilled, leading to inconsistencies in the quality of care and a higher risk of negative side effects such as liver and kidney failure.
• Fake and counterfeit products: The lack of regulation has also led to the proliferation of fake and counterfeit herbal products in Nigeria, putting patients at risk.
• Traditional knowledge protection: There is concern about protecting traditional knowledge and the intellectual property rights of traditional healers, which can make it challenging to regulate the use of herbal remedies.
• Limited government resources: The government may lack the resources and expertise to effectively regulate the herbal medicine industry, making it difficult to enforce standards and ensure patient safety.

Final Thought

Informed decision-making is crucial when it comes to choosing between herbal and conventional medicine, as it helps to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care for their medical conditions. Some of the reasons why informed decision-making is important include:

• Safety: Both herbal and conventional medicine can have potential side effects and risks, so it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each approach before making a decision.
• Evidence-based approach: Evidence-based decision-making involves weighing up the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of the two approach, as some herbal remedies may not have robust scientific evidence to support their use.
• Personal preferences: Each person is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. By considering personal factors such as cultural background, lifestyle, and individual preferences, patients can make a more informed decision about which approach to healthcare is best for them.
• Avoiding harmful interactions: Certain herbal remedies can interact with conventional medications, leading to negative side effects. A well-known example of this is “Kolanuts”. The active ingredient in kolanut, caffeine, can increase the metabolism of certain drugs, causing them to break down more quickly and reducing their effectiveness. Kolanut can also interact with drugs that affect the central nervous system, such as those used to treat anxiety or depression, and can cause side effects or make these drugs less effective. By making an informed decision about which approach to use, patients can avoid harmful interactions and receive the best possible care.

The post Herbs vs. Drugs: The Pros and Cons of Herbal Medicine in Nigeria appeared first on Every Nigerian.

Who is Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso

Sen. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso is a Kano-born Nigerian politician and 2-term governor of Kano state, he has also been appointed as a Minister and later as an Ambassador. He has also served as a Senator. He is currently the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party. Kwankwaso enjoys widespread support in Kano and North-western Nigeria; he has been viewed as a charismatic populist. He’s the arrowhead of the Kwankwassiya movement in Northern Nigeria. Sen. Kwankwaso has been confirmed as the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the 2023 general elections.

In the run-up to Nigeria’s 2022 Presidential elections. A wealthy businessman with a reputation for being thrifty, Mr. Peter Obi had defected from the main opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the platform of the Labour Party (LP) following a litany of accusations against his former party, the PDP. On the insistence of the party to engage heavily in money politics in its primary election on who clinches the Presidential ticket to represent the party during the 2022 Presidential Elections.

Who is Mr. Peter Obi

Mr. Peter Obi is an Anambra-born Nigerian politician and 2-term governor of Anambra state. He’s a wealthy businessman who has also worked on several economic teams of the Federal government.
Mr. Peter Obi before now had been encouraged by his supporters, the ‘Obidients’ – who are mostly young and active tech-savvy internet users to decamp from the opposition PDP to a smaller party, and he would still have their support.

After Mr. Obi’s defection to the Labour Party, LP his supporters urged their principal to seek out Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP to join forces with him and urge him to become his running mate in the 2023 Presidential elections due to Sen. Kwankwaso’s huge following in the North Western part of the country. But Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso’s NNPP refused to pair up with Mr. Obi’s LP citing political experience and dexterity as reasons why the former Senator cannot be a running mate to Mr. Obi.

Now, here’s where the Contrast between Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Sen. Joe Biden comes in.

Sen. Joe Biden is the current and 46th President of the United States (2021- ) and 47th Vice President of the United States (2009–17) in the Democratic administration of President Barack Obama, the first US President of African American heritage. He previously represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate, becoming Delaware’s longest-serving senator (1973–2009) a whooping 36 years long service.
Sen. Joe Biden was already 18 years old (1961) when Sen. Barack Obama was born. By age 29 (1972), he was already an attorney and an elected Senator to the US Senate, becoming the fifth youngest senator in history. While Sen. Barack Obama was just 11 years old then, probably in JSS1 at that time.

Sen. Joe Biden was a veteran Senator and political stalwart in US politics, as he won re-election into the US Senate more than 6 times from 1972 – 2009 (when he was sworn in as a Vice President to the Barack Obama Administration). Sen. Obama was elected into the Illinois senate in 1996, whereas Sen. Biden was on his 7th re-election to the US Senate then. When Sen. Obama was elected into the US senate in 2004. While Sen. Biden was already on a 9th re-election ticket to the US Senate.
Sen. Biden made his first attempt to clinch the Democratic Party Presidential nomination in 1988, but withdrew after it was revealed that parts of his campaign stump speech had been plagiarized from British Labour Party leader Neil Kinnock without appropriate attribution. Whereas Sen. Obama was a Law Student from Harvard University’s Law school, where he later became the first African American to serve as president of the Harvard Law Review.

Sen. Obama gained national recognition and visibility in 2004 after delivering the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention in July of that year, while campaigning for the Senate. The speech wove a personal narrative of Obama’s biography with the theme that all Americans are connected in ways that transcend political, cultural, and geographical differences. The address lifted Obama’s once-obscure memoir onto best-seller lists, and, after taking office the following year, Obama quickly became a major figure in his party. A trip to visit his father’s home in Kenya in August 2006 gained international media attention, and Obama’s star continued ascending. His second book, The Audacity of Hope (2006), a mainstream polemic on his vision for the United States, was published weeks later, instantly becoming a major best seller. In February 2007 Sen. Obama announced at the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois, where Abraham Lincoln had served as a state legislator, that he would seek the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination in 2008. Whereas Sen. Biden’s 2008 Presidential campaign never gained momentum, and he withdrew from the race after placing fifth in the Iowa Democratic caucus in January of that year.
After Sen. Barack Obama amassed enough delegates to secure the Democratic presidential nomination, Biden emerged as a front-runner to be Obama’s vice presidential running mate.

This is Where Sen Kwankwaso Missed it

Now, as a veteran Senator and a political stalwart with more political experience than Sen. Obama and even older than Sen. Obama with 18 years, Sen. Biden would have out rightly rejected his nomination to become a Vice and running mate to Sen. Obama, but he didn’t do such he humbled himself and went ahead to work with and for Sen. Obama. This is where Sen. Kwankwaso missed to take an example from, as his support for Mr. Obi would have been his surest bet to the Presidency after Mr. Obi’s tenure had ended.

On August 23 2000, Sen. Obama officially announced his selection of Biden as the Democratic Party’s vice presidential nominee, and on August 27 2008, Sen. Obama and Sen. Biden secured the Democratic Party’s nomination. On November 4 2008, the Obama-Biden ticket defeated John McCain and his running mate, Sarah Palin, and Sen. Biden also easily won reelection to his U.S. Senate seat. Biden resigned from the Senate post shortly before taking the oath of office as vice president on January 20, 2009. In November 2012, Obama and Biden were re-elected for a second term, defeating the Republican ticket of Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan.
As Vice President, Sen. Biden played an active role in the administration, serving as an influential adviser to Sen. Obama and a vocal supporter of his initiatives. In addition, he was tasked with notable assignments. He helped avert several budget crises and played a key role in shaping U.S. policy in Iraq. In 2015 his eldest son, Beau died from brain cancer; Sen. Biden recounted the experience in Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship, and Purpose (2017). Several months later, Sen. Biden—who enjoyed high favourability ratings, partly due to a candour and affable manner that resonated with the public—announced that he would not enter the 2016 presidential election, noting that the family was still grieving. Instead, he campaigned for Hillary Clinton, who ultimately lost the election to Donald Trump.

Sen. Biden’s close relationship with Sen. Obama was evident when the latter surprised him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, with distinction, on January 12, 2017, just days before they left office. When Sen. Obama presented the rarely given honour, he referred to Biden as “my brother.” Later that year Sen. Biden and his wife established the Biden Foundation, a charitable group involved in various causes.

Sen. Biden remained involved in politics and was a vocal critic of Pres. Donald Trump. Amid growing speculation that he would run for president in 2020, Sen. Biden announced his candidacy in April 2019, joining a crowded Democratic field from which Sen. Biden immediately became a front-runner, and eventually won the election with Kamala Harris as his running mate. Two weeks later, amid a massive security presence, Sen. Biden was sworn in as president.

From the foregoing, you can see that Sen. Biden was a more experienced politician than Sen. Obama, but he was humble enough to accept to become his Vice-Presidential running mate in the 2008 US Presidential elections. And after they have been elected into office, he worked very hard for the success of their administration which also gave him more national admiration.

Now, I believe Sen. Kwankwaso was supposed to learn from history and follow in the footsteps of Sen. Biden and join forces with Mr. Obi to clinch the Presidency. After Mr. Obi’s tenure, he can then vie for the Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. But, I think Northern arrogance got the better part of Sen. Kwankwaso as the only reason his committee from the NNPP gave to Mr. Obi’s committee in the LP is that of political experience.

Well, it turns out that Sen. Kwankwaso’s refusal to merge forces with Mr. Obi was actually good for the ‘Obidient Movement’, (this term is used to describe Mr. Obi’s supporters), as Mr. Obi finally picked Sen. Datti as his running mate and the love, the South-East politician has been getting from Northern commoners has been beyond the expectations of the current political Nigerian establishment as it has disrupted the set perceptions of the old generation establishment politicians that common Northerners won’t accept to vote for a politician of South-East extraction.
Hopefully, Mr. Obi and Sen. Datti win the 2023 Presidential election, and Sen. Kwankwaso gets to count his loss due to his unbridled arrogance and lack of foresight.

The post How Sen. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso missed out on being the Sen. Joe Biden of Nigeria appeared first on Every Nigerian.

You can’t be everything at once, focus on one thing and make it count.

Jasmine was a girl I knew had great potential. Then, in secondary school, she had so many qualities that convinced me of how successful she was going to become in the nearest future. Oh!! she was such a go-getter. After our secondary school, I found her doing digital marketing, I wasn’t surprised she took up such a skill immediately, even when most of us, her mates were yet to figure out whether we wanted to further school or learn skills like hair-dressing or fashion design. It wasn’t long before I saw Jasmine hop into telemarketing from digital marketing, she immediately switched to programming. Waw, I was really amazed at how much she could do.

The following year, I got admission into the uni. There, I saw my dear friend jasmine, she said she had become a public speaker. Amazed I was, but then I couldn’t help but get worried for her. I knew how determined and resourceful she could be, but then, the whole energy was not being channeled properly. It wasn’t up to six months before I saw my dear friend doing comedy skits. I knew her to be everything, a comedian was not near any of them. Well, I reacted to her posts to encourage her, but still, I become more worried. Less than one year, my dear friend posted on her WhatsApp status, that she had become a model. Outrightly, I knew I needed to talk with her.

I enquired why she was trying to do so many things at the same time, and what really was the driving force. My friend broke down and told me how she just wanted to do great things, make a name like others and be her own boss. Eventually, she got confused about which of her potentials to harness, since she was gifted with more than one, but obviously not perfect in any.

Jasmine is you, yes you, trying to do so many things yet perfect at non, Trying to be everywhere yet nowhere.

One problem with people who have multiple potentials is that they are not able to diligently focus on one or two of their potentials and grow them. The interest to try everything and know everything is what births “jack of all trades, master of non”.

Be known for one thing and become a master in it.

Take life one day at a time, and learn to maximize each of your potentials one after the other. Trying to be and do several things at the same time is as good as gathering wood that you will definitely not need, so why the load? You will only succeed when you are able to focus on a particular thing, Groom, and grow in it. Ever seen a man who is into so many things? He never gets far in any of them, as he would if he had focused on a few.

If you want to grow, go far and succeed in life, you must have an identity, and you cannot have that by wearing multiple hats at once. When you try out one potential, ensure you have given it your best before you pivot. Stop confusing your helpers when they come. Stop confusing the people that follow you. Stand firm for one thing and become known for it. That’s the strength of an achiever.

Just Start, Stay Consistent and you will definitely win.

Cheers.

The post Why You Can’t Be Everything At Once appeared first on Every Nigerian.

At first,  she said I wasn’t competent for the job and called me a rookie and underaged. Days ran into weeks and she began heaping all her duties on me. You can say I was doubling both as the admin, and assistant at the same time. Literally, I was carrying out her duties for her. You may want to ask, what then was she doing? Well, Dish orders and passing files!

Eventually, the rookie became a pro.  I got so good at my job that I didn’t need her to pass files to me, I went to get them myself. she soon began to like me, Obviously because she saw me as a relief of her duties while she still received her salary and still answered the admin title.

Because I was competent enough,  she would skip work for days while I fill in for her. I carried on with my duties diligently without minding her laxity to work. Every one of my colleagues that needed her attention always came to me instead of her.

One day,  I overheard them saying that they preferred working with me to Her. Gradually she began to lose her relevance. The big news broke two months after. I emerged as the new administrator and branch manager. It wasn’t a surprise to anyone except my boss, who was either going to work as the front desk officer or quit her job.

What happened to her? Well, obviously she lost her relevance while letting another carry out her duties for her. She felt I was a newbie in the system, but never thought I will learn and grow. She didn’t consider what I must have known before coming into the system and my adaptive skills. She only saw my presence as an opportunity to hide from work.

This story is illustrative in our various workplaces. Some of us think because we have worked in a workplace or an industry for a long time, we can’t be outshined. Listen, no one is the monopoly of excellence and as such, don’t think you are irreplaceable. The company doesn’t care about you as a person, they care only about the value you are able to bring to the table.

At every given time and duty, show yourself worthy and deserving. Don’t sleep on your skills, if you do, you may lose your relevance to those that are awake and consistent with the grind. Some of us, have PAs. Your PA can replace you if you let them do what you are supposed to do, simply because you are paying them to assist you. Assist you, fine, but don’t heap so many duties or responsibilities on them, such that they can render you irrelevant.

There are people whose minds are actively ready to tap and harness. Look down on anyone at your own peril. Keep developing, keep emerging, and don’t give room for negligence. Whatever you are called to do, put in your best, not your least. Last note; When you stop growing, you lose relevance and when you lose relevance, life becomes worthless. Don’t let yourself die while alive!!!

So While you’re alive, keep living, keep reading, and keep improving.

Stay Relevant.!

The post How I Took Over My Bosses Job Within Two Months appeared first on Every Nigerian.

That particular road was so busy that it was as though the riders were in a racing competition,
coupled with the bad condition of the road. Every man was trying to beat time.

I noticed an old man fell with his bike just by the corner of the road.
I truly feared for his life because of the speed of the riders near him.
I wanted to ask our driver to stop so we could help,
but the thought of other passengers yelling at me didn’t let me.
I guess they were in a haste too.

Well, we passed him as he struggled to get himself off the road
and probably continue the journey. Just as we passed,
every other vehicle and user of that road passed him.
Everyone seemed to be in a haste, probably to catch up with something or somewhere.

While we journeyed, a few things battled in my head.
Will he be able to rise and continue his journey?
What if he couldn’t rise up? Will he get help?

There are a few lessons I learnt from that incident.
In the journey of life, you are mostly on your own.
People are not interested in what pushed you down,
what made you give up, or how you intend to rise again.
What they are interested in is “did you rise or not?”

People are only interested in what will help them succeed,
maybe a few will pause to help you.
but you really can’t bank on it.

When people help you out of your trying times and push you up the ladder,
don’t trivialize it. They did what only a few will do,
for it takes one who understands and leaves for humanity to help you rise.

No matter how difficult life pushes you, push it back.
You lose when you give up. You win when you persevere.

History is made by those who stood strong throughout the test of time.
So no matter how tough or brutal it gets, keep your eyes on the goal.

Champions don’t count how many times they fall.
They only count gathered experiences.
If they succeed, once every ten attempts,
They know how many times they need to try
To succeed a hundred times.

The post Journey of life… appeared first on Every Nigerian.

1. The Obudu Mountain Resort, Cross River State
Obudu Mountain Resort also known as Obudu Cattle Ranch is one of Africa’s finest and most interesting and spectacular tourist destinations. Obudu Mountain Resort is located in the highlands and deep tropical forests of Cross River State with a temperate climate at about 45 miles from the border with Cameroon. If you are a tourist looking for a mix of adventure and idyllic tranquility, then Obudu Cattle Ranch is the place to be. With rich natural vegetation and a picturesque view, Obudu is increasingly becoming popular amongst tourists from all around Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

The ranch has numerous pleasant and beautiful mountain-area and country-side views, with a well-preserved and calm Serene to suit all our guests. Obudu Mountain is described by some as one of the most beautiful places on earth, the picturesque plateau is best known for its breathtaking, dramatic Panorama.

2. Ogbunike Cave, Anambra State
The Ogbunike Caves are located in Ogbunike, Anambra State, South-Eastern Nigeria. Located in a valley blanketed by tropical rain forests, the collection of caves has been in use over centuries by local people for whom it has particular spiritual significance. This spiritual significance is still apparent, as the “Ime Ogba” celebration is undertaken every year to commemorate the discovery of the caves. Descending into the valley where the caves are located is a lengthy walkway made up of about 317 steps said to have been constructed by the Anambra State Government in the mid-90s. Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the caves, as per tradition. And women who are having their monthly cycle cannot go in.

The main cave consists of a massive structure with a big open chamber of about 5m high, 10m wide, and 30m long at the entrance. There are ten tunnels in the main chamber leading in different directions. Within the tunnels are big chambers and other tunnels of varying lengths, some of which are interconnected. The caves are occupied by a large colony of bats of various sizes. There are streams and bodies of water in various places. A stream flows out from one of the tunnels into a rapidly flowing river (River Nkissa). At the meeting point of the river and the stream one can feel the warm water from the caves and the cold river water. Beside this portion of the river is a table land of about 5 X 5 square meters used as a relaxation spot by visitors to the caves. The immediate environment of the caves up to about 200 meters radius is a thick tropical rainforest type of vegetation. The site has sufficient boundaries (20 hectares) to protect its values from the direct effects of human encroachment. Ogbunike cave is on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

3. Agbokim Waterfall, Cross Rivers State
In a remote rainforest near the border of Nigeria and Cameroon, seven streams tumble over steep cliffs to form the Agbokim waterfall. During the rainy season, the rushing falls create a thunderous sound and sometimes, for those who are lucky enough to see them, rainbows. Agbokim waterfall is most significant for its multiple adjoining streams, which tumble down to form a mesmerizing cascade of water that flows down to a beautiful pool. The waterfall is surrounded by steep hills and valleys, which makes the hike to the waterfall challenging, yet rewarding.

Agbokim waterfalls are situated in the Etung local government area of Cross River State in the South-South (Niger delta) region of Nigeria, very close to its border with Cameroon. The waterfalls are about 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from Ikom and 320 kilometres (200 mi) from Calabar. Surrounded by a rich variety of flora and fauna, lush greenery, valleys, and steep hills, Agbokim waterfall offers an alluring collection of seven cascades rushing over a cliff and creating an impressive seven-part waterfall. During the rainy season when the waterfall is in its full bloom, it produces a beautiful blend of rainbow colours making the scenery even more magical.

4. Zuma Rock, Niger State
Zuma Rock is a large natural monolith, or inselberg, an igneous intrusion composed of gabbro and granodiorite, in Niger State, Nigeria. It is located immediately west of Nigeria’s capital Abuja, along the main road from Abuja to Kaduna off Madala, and is sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to Abuja from Suleja”. Zuma Rock rises approx. 300 metres (980 ft) above its surroundings. It was used for a defensive retreat by the Gbagyi people against invading neighbouring tribes during intertribal warring. Zuma Rock is very tall by the standards of Nigerian geography. It is over four times taller than NECOM house (Lagos’ tallest skyscraper, as of 1979) and it is taller than Aso rock and Olumo rock combined.

The rock was found in the 15th century by the Zuba people of Niger State, who called it zumwa, which could translate to “a place of guinea fowls,” due to their abundance around the rock. The Zuba people settled around the rock and came to see it as a spiritual guide, making sacrifices to the rock to keep them safe from harm. Because the landmark offered a clear view of the surrounding landscape, it was also used as a defensive position from other invading tribes.

Zuma Rock is composed of igneous rock, specifically gabbro and granodiorite. The natural runoff of water has left the rock surface with a human-like facial feature imprinted on the rock, with features like mouth, nose, and eyes. The rock tends to get alight with fire during the rainy season. The friction created moving rocks caused by the sliding slope of the rock and during this, the fire comes up. It has become one of the most prominent landmarks in Nigeria, and since 1999 has been printed on the country’s 100 naira notes. Hiking up to the top of the rock takes about five hours.

5. Aso Rock, Abuja
Aso Rock is a large outcrop of granitic rock located on the outskirts of Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. The Aso Rock is a 400-metre (1,300 ft) prominent monolith with a peak height of 936-metre (3,071 ft) above sea level. It is one of the city’s most noticeable features. The rock is surrounded by the most important buildings in Nigeria; Aso Villa – the official residence and workplace of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, The National Assembly, and the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Much of the city extends to the south of the rock. “Aso” means victorious in the native language of the Asokoro (“the people of victory”) ethnic group.

6. Wikki Warm Spring, Bauchi State
The Wikki Warm Spring can be found in the Yankari National Park, Nigeria’s most revered national park for spotting wildlife. The Wikki Warm Spring is the biggest of the four warm springs in Yankari, which has come about as a result of geothermal activity below the park.

Spring is Mother Nature’s answer to a spa. The Spring is 1.9 metres deep, and 13 metres wide with a consistent temperature of 31°C which boasts crystal clear waters and flows into a beautiful lake that is 200 meters long by 10 meters across and nearly two meters deep, making it the perfect spot for a swim. The water gushes out from a string of chambers under the sandstone cliff. The actual source of this water is still to be determined.

The spring provides visitors with a chance to enjoy the warm water and relax in a tranquil environment, surrounded by nature. Located about 42 kilometres from the main entrance of the park, you can stay in one of the many furnished chalets at the “Wikki Camp” which is the tourist centre of the Park and you can make use of this graceful and elegant natural phenomenon.

7. Idanre Hill, Ondo State
The Idanre Hill or Oke Idanre is located in Idanre town in Ondo State of southwestern Nigeria. The Idanre hill is well-known for its landscape. Its wide variety of cultural sites as ‘Owa’s Palace’, shrines, The Old Court, Belfry, Agbooogun footprint, thunder water (Omi Apaara), and burial grounds have since brought the location fame and the nation’s nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage Site shortlist. It resides 3000 ft (914.4meters) above sea level and houses a unique ecosystem upon which the cultural landscape has Integrated.

This site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List on October 8, 2007, in the Cultural category. Idanre Hill is said to have 9 ancient wonders and beliefs. All the following myths are located on the Idanre hills;

1. “Ibi Akaso” The Steps
2. The King’s Palace
3. Agboogun’s Legacy
4. Unreadable signs
5. Agboogun’s footprint
6. The wonderful mat
7. “Omi Aopara” Aopara Water
8. The Orosun Hill
9. Arun river

Awhum (Ohum) Cave, Enugu State
Ohum waterfall, which is officially known as Awhum waterfalls, is situated at Amaugwe village of Awhum town in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu state. The valley town which also boasts of numerous pristine lakes, some of them with beautiful white sand beaches are located about 24 kilometers from Enugu and it is bounded on the north by Okpatu, in the east by Nike, in the south by Ukana and in the west by Egede communities. But, separating the town of Awhum from her bounded communities are beautiful rolling grassy hills, majestically adorned in green. Also, the mystic auras from Awhum’s caves emit on her a unique kind of beauty.

However, the graceful Awhum waterfalls were birthed as a result of a massive outcrop of granite rock with water cascading over the top, forming a stream. The waterfall is 30 metres high and it is famed to have both healing powers and the capability of dispelling satanic or evil forces. It is for these reasons the falls have become a place of Christian pilgrimage and a prayer centre”

The tranquil Awhum cave offers a prayer atmosphere that facilitates spiritual uplifting and the renewal of mind and body. The cave houses a crucifix of Jesus Christ and a grotto of Joseph and Mary, where monks and pilgrims perform their spiritual exercises. A must-experience highlight of the cave is the waterfall. The fall is said to proclaim the wisdom and healing power of God.

River Niger and Benue, Kogi State
River Niger and Benue are the longest in West Africa. The river Niger remained a wonder to the first Europeans who set foot on Nigeria’s soil until John and Richard Landers passed through the confluence on October 25th, 1830 thereby completing the journey that Mungo Park had started. Rivers Niger and Benue are the two largest rivers in West Africa. The two rivers meet at Lokoja in Kogi state, forming a Y-shaped structure in what appears to be a magnificent union and draining southwards into the ocean. While River Niger is brownish in colour, River Benue is light green in colour. Fishing is carried on extensively on the rivers. There are ferry and boat services plus cruising facilities within view of the confluence.

The sole aim is to make it a pleasurable delight to visitors, both foreign and local, thus boosting the tourism industry, the economy, and the level of social interaction in the state. Lokoja is mostly known and celebrated for is its confluence. Lokoja is where the two great rivers: Niger and Benue meet. Whichever means the great geographical wonder is accessed – it is a beauty to behold. The ‘Y’ shape is symbolised in Nigeria’s Coat of Arms.

10. Ado-Awaye Suspended Lake, Oyo State
Ado Awaye lake is said to be the only suspended lake in Africa and the second in the world. It is located at Ado-Awaye town about 20km west of Iseyin in Oyo state, Nigeria. The lake’s natural formation, teeming biodiversity, unspoilt serene surroundings are a natural treasure.

The Ado-Awaye suspended lake sits on one of the crests of rocks commonly referred to in the surveyor’s language as the “sleeping lion”. The view of the lake at the top of Ado-Awaye mountains is mesmerizing.

11. Gurara Waterfall, Niger State
The spectacular Gurara waterfall spans 200 meters across with a drop of about 30 metres. It changes its shape from a calm graceful waterfall in the dry season to a vast thundering fall in the rainy season.

Gurara Waterfalls is located in Gurara, a local government area of Niger State, North Central Nigeria. The waterfall is approximately 30 metres in height and it lies on the Gurara River along the Suleja-Minna Road. According to oral history, Gurara Waterfalls was discovered by a Gwari hunter called Buba in 1745 before some Europeans discovered it in 1925 after they found it as a recreation centre. Prior to the discovery of the waterfalls by the Europeans, Gurara Waterfalls were worshipped by people living in communities around it. Oral history also has it that Gurara Waterfalls and Gurara River were named after two deities called Gura and Rara.

Despite its chequered history, Gurara Waterfalls is one of the major tourist sites in Nigeria. There have been plans in recent times to turn it into a resort with a recreation centre and a seven-star hotel around it.

Ogba Ukwu waterfall and cave, Anambra State
Ogba Ukwu Caves and Waterfalls presents one of the greatest natural tourist attractions in Anambra State. Hidden away from the busy routes that crisscross Anambra, the Ogbaukwu Caves and Waterfalls are located in Owerre Ezeukala community that borders Abia, Enugu, and Imo. Approximately 75 kilometres east of Onitsha, the cave is considered the largest cave in West Africa, which will take upwards of two hours to explore. It forms a deep and complex rock formation with roomy compartments large enough to take in an entire village.

At the centre of Ogba Ukwu, is one large area said to have been the living room of the ‘god’ of Owerre-Ezukala. There is one particular compartment, accessed by the aid of stone steps where an old elephant’s foot still stands, long dead and dry. In another crevice, there is a natural spanner of rock, and in yet another is a gun of stone, as old as the cave. A guided tour in and around it is a wonderful experience and leaves a visitor dumbfounded by this wonderful work of nature.

Ogba Ukwu cave is the largest in West Africa, with unique and roomy compartments which collectively can accommodate an entire village. It takes a minimum of two hours to explore.

13. Farin Ruwa Waterfalls, Nasarawa State
Farin Ruwa Falls is a waterfall found in the central region of Nigeria. It is among the highest waterfalls in Nigeria. It is significant among Africa’s falls when the total height covered by the waterfall is considered. The source of Farin Ruwa falls is found in Nasarawa State, from whence it gushes down over the edge of the Nasarawa. During its descent from the Jos Plateau, the water drops a total height of about 150 metres (492 ft). This drop is higher compared to the more popular Victoria Falls, which drops a height of around 108 metres (354 ft) during its descent.

Farin Ruwa falls is found in the Farin Ruwa Development Area, under Wamba Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The falls are found along the boundary of Plateau State and Nasarawa State, under the Bokkos and Wamba Local Government Areas of the two states. The falls have their source on the Jos plateau, in the Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State. The falls were discovered by the then-British colonial rulers of Nigeria in the 1950s. A catering Rest House was established in Massange village close to the falls in order to exploit it commercially. To protect its rich heritage, the colonial administration gazetted it and named it MAYES Forest Reserve. However, despite this early development, Farin Ruwa was consigned to the background until the creation of Nasarawa State in 1996. The mountainous nature of the region surrounding the Farin Ruwa falls induces heavy rainfall from clouds passing over the region during the rainy season from March to November. As a result, there is an increase in the volume of water of the falls crashing from the mountains during the rainy season. The mountains around the falls are the edge of the Jos Plateau. There is a drop in the volume of water of the falls during the dry season, from December to March. But it is for a short while, as the falls recover their water volume again during the rainy season.

The waterfall fall is about 30 kilometres from Wamba and 120 kilometres from Lafia the capital of Nasarawa State. It is also 192.6 km (almost 3hrs 45mins) from Abuja the capital city of Nigeria via Keffi-Akwanga Nasarawa State. The location is on the verge of being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nigeria. Other attractions include a magnificent waterfall and a massive dome.

14. Riyom Rock, Plateau State
The Riyom Rock is one of the most enchanting scenes in Nigeria and taking a look at the way these mighty boulders are arranged on top of one another in that delicate position for thousands, if not millions of years, one cannot but be awed by the majestic wonders of nature.

The rock formation is located in Riyom Town just 25 kilometres to the southwest of Jos, the capital city. The Riyom Rock is located in Riyom Local Government Area of the state and the area is predominantly populated by Berom people. When viewed from some angles, the formation resembles the map of Plateau State. The formation is also popularly known as Three Rocks.

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The word ‘Cowrie’ comes from Hindi कौडि (kaudi), from Tamil கவடி (“kavadi”), which has its origins in Sanskrit कपर्द (kaparda).

Cowrie or cowry is the common name for a group of small to large sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Cypraeidae

Shells of certain species have historically been used as currency in several parts of the world, as well as being used, in the past and present, very extensively in jewelry, and for other decorative and ceremonial purposes.

The cowrie was the shell most widely used nationwide as shell money. It is most abundant in the Indian Ocean and was collected in the Maldive Islands, in Sri Lanka, along the Indian Malabar coast, in Borneo, and on other East Indian islands, in Maluku in the Pacific, and in various parts of the African coast from Ras Hafun to Mozambique. Cowrie shell money was important in the trade networks of Africa, South Asia, and East Asia.

The shells of cowries are usually smooth and shiny and more or less egg-shaped.

What Does Cowries Symbolize?
For thousands of years, people associate seashells with love and fertility. Some also believe they represent the safe journey between the physical and spiritual world. But the truth is, there are different meanings attached to these old sea creatures’ “homes”.

In African legend, a love of cowrie shells shows that you could be family to an ocean spirit of wealth and earth. It also represents the Goddess of protection in the ocean. In Nigeria and other parts of the country, the cowrie symbolized destiny and prosperity.

A powerful point to note is that cowries aren’t evil like religions ignorantly portray them. During the pre-colonial era, they were used as money.

The shells are known to bring good luck and protect the spirit of the wearer, and many tribes use them in spiritual ceremonies. They also are a sign of femininity and fertility, with women often wearing them not only to help them conceive but to help them give birth safely.

Cowrie shells contain multiple meanings and uses. These are commonly shown up in the form of jewelry and money.  They are being used in almost every part of the country. However, these shells gained tremendous popularity through trade during pre-colonial Nigeria.

Traditionally, these shells contain a specific meaning and history. Nonetheless, there are still various people all around the country who are unaware of the spiritual meaning and use of cowrie shells. Because of this people more often misinterpret the cowrie shell meaning and misunderstood the facts about them. As cowrie shells are not just meant to be a mare fashion, therefore, people need to understand the cowrie shells’ meaning and importance in the best possible way.

Some people believe a shell’s hard texture makes one’s mind stronger. That is why cowrie shells stand for a resilient and determined mindset. It also represents protection against evil spirits.

Similarly, others believe shells are a bridge between the physical and the supernatural realm. This belief comes from Shell’s close relationship with water and water spirits.

Whether you have a shell in your home or see it in your dreams, it will signify different things. Spiritualists, for example, claim that dreaming about shells represents spiritual connection. Their presence in your home, however, means something entirely different.

Cowrie shells symbolize the following in Nigerian culture;

Protection of your home: having it in your house is a potent shielding power that keeps evil and negativity at bay.
Defiant to pressure: seashells are strong and defiant against the mightiness of the ocean. Therefore, possessing a seashell symbolizes a strong mindset that resists pressure.
Spirituality: dreaming that you hold a seashell indicates your spirit is trying to communicate with the universe.
Immortality: shells are symbolic of eternal life. They also symbolize a component of man that endures even after death.

The Cowrie’s Spiritual Meaning
When it comes to the religious meaning of cowrie shells, it varies a lot depending on the religion and spiritual practices, and the symbolism differs.

Cowrie shells can also serve as a conduit for spiritual concepts to enter the human mind. Depending on the person, or the situation, shells might be a lucky charm.

The following are seven (7) things that Cowrie shells symbolize from a spiritual perspective.

1. Oceanic wealth & power
2. Femininity & fertility
3. Protection
4. Abundance & good fortune
5. Magical Power & good luck
6. Love
7. Creation & manifestation

Significance Of Cowrie Shells In The Nigerian Culture

• Monetary use
• Ritual use
• Jewelry
• Games and gambling
• Children teaching aid

Summary
The cowrie shell has many uses and meanings. It has been used as money in many cultures. They are popular for jewelry, and religious accessories all over the country. For many people today, cowrie shells make fascinating jewelry and decorations. Whether in jewelry or in crafts, cowrie shells add the exotic feel of Nigeria.

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‘Agbo jedi-jedi’ seems to be the most frequently used herbal medicine preparation, followed by ‘agbo-iba’ and Oroki herbal mixture. Family and friends reportedly influenced most users of herbal products to give them a try, and these herbal products were considered safe by the users of these herbal medicine preparations despite experiencing mild or moderate adverse effects.

Herbal Medicine Products
Herbal medicine products are a very significant part of “Traditional Medicine” (TM). Traditional Medicine has a broad range of characteristics and elements which earned it the working definition from the World Health Organization (WHO). Traditional medicines are diverse health practices, approaches, knowledge, and beliefs that incorporate plant, animal, and/ or mineral-based medicines, spiritual therapies, manual techniques, and exercises that are applied singularly or in combination to maintain well-being, as well as to treat, diagnose or prevent illness. It is also known as “Complementary” or “Alternative” medicine (CAM).

Herbal medicines, also called botanical medicines or phytomedicines, refer to herbs, herbal materials, herbal preparations, and finished herbal products that contain parts of plants or other plant materials as active ingredients. The plant materials include seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark or flowers. Many drugs used in conventional medicine were originally derived from plants.

Over 60% of Nigerian households now depend on traditional medicine for primary health care, due to the pressing economic crunch.

Widespread Use Of Herbal Products
Despite the widespread use of herbal products among Nigerians and their reported benefits, they are not completely harmless. The indiscriminate, irresponsible, or non-regulated use of several herbal products may put the health of their users at risk of toxicity. Also, there is limited scientific evidence from studies done to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of traditional medicine products and practices. Adverse reactions have been reported to herbal medicines when used alone or concurrently with conventional or orthodox medicines.

Herbal medicine products use among adults without chronic illnesses is becoming quite high in Nigeria. Many users claim herbal medicine products are safe, cheap, effective, and beneficial. These users believe that herbal medicine products rarely produce adverse effects, a few experienced them mildly and moderately. Considering the magnitude of popularity of herbal medicine products among its users and their levels of ignorance of the potential toxicities, it is necessary to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and quality of these preparations and products which may involve clinical trial studies. Public enlightenment programme, in the form of health education about the safe use of herbal medicine products, maybe a useful means of minimizing the potential adverse effects

Despite the national diversity and adoption of Traditional Medicine in different cultures and regions, there is no parallel advance in national standards and methods for its evaluation. National policies and regulations also are lacking for Traditional Medicine products in many states and where these are available; it is difficult to fully regulate Traditional Medicine products, practices, and practitioners due to variations in definitions and categorizations of Traditional Medicine therapies. Lack of knowledge of how to sustain and preserve the plant populations and how to use them for medicinal purposes is a potential threat to Traditional Medicine sustenance.

Crippling Economic Policies Push Nigerians To Patronize Herbal Medicine Products To Meet Health Needs
Destiny Boma, the sole proprietor of a thriving ICT business in a major South Nigerian City of Port Harcourt, Rivers State started patronizing herbal medicine products three years ago as a cheaper alternative to modern healthcare service provision due to rising inflation which has set modern medicines above her budget.

Most Nigerians are desperately searching for ways to cut down on expenses and save on basic expenses including food. The country is experiencing double-digit inflation at the moment. Herbal medicine products have come in handy as one way, Nigerians to cut down expenses on modern healthcare provision and modern medicines, even though the sector is unregulated by health authorities and medical experts often warn about the risk of fake, even dangerous, remedies.

While being interviewed, Boma said outside a herbal kiosk selling an anti-malarial concoction in Port Harcourt, “My income can no longer accommodate rising hospital bills,”

An anti-malarial mix cost Boma 200 naira compared to the 2,500 Naira she would pay for treatment at the hospital.

Nigeria’s economy has been badly hit by falls in global oil prices and the pandemic, which slashed petroleum revenue, weakened the local naira, and helped keep inflation at around 17 percent.

Affordability Of Herbal Medicine Products
The economic squeeze of low oil prices plunged Nigeria into recession in 2016 and 2020, pushing an additional seven million into poverty in 2020 alone, according to the World Bank’s global poverty index.

Even before that, millions of Nigerians were living in poverty on less than a dollar a day

Herbal medicine products have a deep-rooted culture in Nigeria, especially in more traditional communities, but the drugs have become more popular in recent years even among Western-educated Nigerians like Boma.

Herbal medicine product stores and marketers promising a cure for all forms of illnesses, from common flu to diseases such as cancer and diabetes, are a common sight on the streets and markets.

Herbal medicine products marketers advertise their concoctions from loudspeakers atop old cars, while others push herbal mixture-filled wheelbarrows and carts through the streets.

When interviewed outside a herbal medicine products store in the Southern city of Aba, a two hours drive from Port Harcourt due to the terrible road conditions, Eberechi Godswill said “I have turned to herbs to treat ailments in my family due to the terrible economic situation,”

It required only “a fraction” of what he would spend in the hospital, said the 53-year-old mother of four as she held a plastic bag stuffed with anti-malarial herbs.

Astounding Sales Of Herbal Medicine Products
Herbalists say sales have soared and demand has increased from cash-strapped customers.

Abubakar Khalid, a herbalist in Kano’s Yakasai neighbourhood said, “The number of customers has increased four-fold because every day we attend to people from varying social backgrounds,”

Dr. Ibrahim Musa, of the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano’s largest medical facility, blamed the trend on inflation with rising food costs sucking up earnings.

Nigerians usually pay for healthcare out of their pockets despite the emergence in recent years of health insurance for those with regular income.

“A lot of people don’t have enough money to buy medications,” said Dr. Musa, a consultant haematologist.

Nigeria’s healthcare system is one of the worst in the world, ranking 163 out of 191, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Public spending on healthcare stands at 3.89 percent of Nigeria’s $495 billion GDP, compared to 8.25 percent in South Africa with a population of 59 million, less than one-third of Nigeria’s, according to World Bank figures.

According to the Nigeria Medical Association (MNA) Nigeria has only 40,000 doctors for its 210 million population, a ratio of two doctors for every 10,000 people. The WHO standard is one doctor for every 600.

Fakes And Quacks Of Herbal Medicine Products
Nigeria imports 70 percent of its pharmaceutical needs. But a huge volume of fake and substandard drugs find their way into Nigeria’s market.

“People continue to lose faith in orthodox medications,” Dr. Musa said. “This makes them turn to herbal preparations which are much cheaper and readily available.”

But the business has been infiltrated by quacks who make unreasonable claims of cures for a quick profit, herbal marketers say.

In 2017, Mohammed Aliyu’s wife died from internal bleeding after drinking a herbal concoction she bought from a herbal medicine products marketer along their street in Kaduna.

“She stumbled into the house and lay on the floor vomiting blood. The bottle had no label, so we couldn’t trace the vendor,” he said.

In December 2021 Nigeria’s foremost drug and food watchdog, NAFDAC warned Nigerians against using herbal concoctions due to poor storage which exposes the medications to bacteria.

Adnan Mu’azzam Haido, a Medical Doctor in Kano, said one major downside of herbal medicine products is the “one-cure-for-all ailments” trend as well as claims of cures for diseases considered incurable but manageable, such as AIDS, cancer, and diabetes.

Dr. Ibrahim Musa, of the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, further stated, “People have lost faith in the healthcare system and we need to win them back. We can only do that if we strengthen the healthcare system through universal access, universal coverage and quality.”

Call To Standardize Herbal Medicine Products In Line With Global Standards
Dr. Isaac Ayodele, the CEO, Ayodele Herbal Farm have joined voices to call for the standardization of Nigerian herbal medicine products to global health standards.

Dr. Ayodele, who holds a Doctor of Science degree in Public Health, said that herbal formulae must aim at transforming the concept of herbal medicine products, which was before regarded as a fetish, unhygienic and primitive. Herbal medicine products, also called botanical medicine or phytomedicine, refer to the use of plant seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes — a practice that he said was accepted internationally.

He explained that practitioners of herbal medicine and users need a new information order aimed at placing herbal medicine in its proper perspective in Africa and beyond.

He further described his farm’s activities, by saying, “Within 20 years, we have transformed the concept of herbal products, herbal farm, and herbal health care into a great brand, such as the allopathic medicine that can be used safely by people of all races, religion, sex, and socio-economic status. On our farm, we cultivate both foreign and local herbs through which we strive to improve the health and well-being of our numerous clients at home and abroad.”

He noted that in order to make for quality assurance, herbal drug manufacturers must use organic medicinal plants.

“This guarantees the safety, standardisation, and hygiene of products,” he said.

He also said that in order to make such products acceptable to national and international audiences, they must be formulated and produced by professionals in herbal medicine.

He said that to this end, his organisation engaged in regular clinical trials of products in order to ensure their efficacy.

He assured that herbal capsules and teas had been tested and proved to be effective in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and low libido, weight loss, potbelly remedy, detoxification, and improvement of digestion, as well as for fighting high sugar levels in the blood.

Explaining the place of herbal medicine in modern medical practice, Ayodele noted, “Precisely, we may have the advance technology now and modern medicines, but we cannot change the fact that the old remedy is still popular.”

Summary
Though Herbal medicine products have become quite popular among Nigerian households most people appear to be ignorant of their potential adverse effects. It may be necessary to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and quality of herbal medicine products through periodic clinical trial studies. Public enlightenment programme about the safe use of herbal medicine products may be necessary as a means of minimizing the potential adverse effects.

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