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Zipline Boosts Access to Primary Healthcare in Cross River State

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Cross River State is experiencing a significant transformation in healthcare logistics, all thanks to the innovative drone technology provided by Zipline. Local health facilities in the Ogoja local government area have praised the government’s partnership with Zipline as a crucial step in revolutionising the distribution of medical supplies in remote regions.

Healthcare professionals from facilities serviced by Zipline have expressed their satisfaction with the positive impact of this collaboration on their communities. The difference is most noticeable in the Ijiraga and Mfuma Primary Health Centers, which had previously struggled with frequent shortages of medications and delays in restocking, leading to compromised patient care. However, since joining forces with Zipline, these centres have been able to provide efficient and reliable healthcare services to their patients.

Mr. Augustine Okpotu, the Director of the Ijiraga Primary Health Centre, shared his experience, stating, “Zipline’s drone technology has been a game-changer. It addresses the fundamental aspects of primary healthcare: affordability, availability, and accessibility. The Zipline drones have significantly reduced the cost of procuring drugs and have made it convenient for us to access the required medical products, even amidst challenges like fuel scarcity and transportation restrictions. We no longer need to travel; a simple phone call or text message ensures prompt delivery of the necessary drugs, reducing wastage and drug expiration.”

Mr. Augustine added, “Previously, people were hesitant to visit our primary health facilities due to long wait times and frequent drug shortages. However, now we compete with higher-level healthcare facilities in terms of drug availability, thanks to this advanced delivery system.”

Beyond improving logistics, Zipline’s services have instilled hope and trust in the health facilities they serve. A notable example is a life-saving intervention at the Ijiriga Primary Health Facility, where a patient with severe vomiting and diarrhoea received necessary drugs within minutes through Zipline, drastically reducing wait times and potentially saving their life. Such efficiency not only saves lives but also enhances the reputation and trust of these remote health facilities, giving them a competitive edge.

Mr. Raphael Ochim, the Director of the Mfuma PHC, also praised the transformative impact of Zipline, saying, “Since Zipline’s operations began here, their drone technology and service have been highly beneficial. It is cost-effective, fast, and accurate. We no longer have to worry about transportation costs or travelling long distances to acquire drugs; we simply make a call, and they deliver promptly.

“Patients are happier, and the number of visitors to our facility has increased. Many are impressed by the sight of drones delivering drugs, which has boosted their trust in the quality of our medications.”

Zipline’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of its operations. Their robust feedback system ensures that healthcare providers stay informed with regular updates on delivery statuses. This meticulous attention to detail and alignment with healthcare facilities’ needs reflect Zipline’s dedication to improving healthcare accessibility.

Currently serving over 13 million Nigerians in Kaduna, Cross River, and Bayelsa States, covering more than 46,000 square kilometres and supporting over 1,000 healthcare facilities, Zipline’s pioneering drone technology has transformed the skies over Cross River State from mere backdrops into active conduits of health and hope. With over 100,000 healthcare product deliveries and nearly 7 million products delivered globally, Zipline’s impact is undeniable.

 


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Ugo Onwuaso is an ICT enthusiast. He believes technology should be used for general good. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the Lagos state University. Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

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NIMC Warns against Using Unauthorised Websites for NIN Changes

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National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has warned Nigerians against modifying their National Identification Number (NIN) data on unauthorised websites.

NIMC Warns against Using Unauthorised Websites for NIN Changes

Dr Kayode Adegoke, head of Corporate Communications, NIMC, issued the warning in a statement released on Monday.

Adegoke stated that modifications to NIN data could only be carried out on the official NIMC self-service portal.

He therefore cautioned that attempting to modify NIN data on unauthorised websites could compromise personal information and expose individuals to identity theft.

According to him, using the official NIMC self-service portal ensures that data remains secure and protected.

“By using the self-service portal, individuals can also enjoy the convenience of updating their information from anywhere, at any time.

“NIMC therefore advises Nigerians to use only the official portal for all NIN modification needs and to avoid unauthorised websites to prevent any potential risks,” he said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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FG Partners China to Crack Down on Chinese Nationals in Financial Crimes

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Nigeria and China said this week they will cooperate in efforts to crack down on the increasing number of Chinese nationals taking part in financial crimes in the African country.

FG Partners China to Crack Down on Chinese Nationals in Financial Crimes

The joint effort comes after Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador visited Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, in Abuja.

In a statement posted to the EFCC website, Dunhai expressed regret over the rising trend of Chinese nationals engaged in financial crimes in Nigeria.

He assured Nigerian authorities that the Chinese government is ready to send delegates to work with local law enforcement agencies to address the issue.

At the same time, Dunhai urged authorities to protect the rights of Chinese citizens while investigations are conducted.

Since November, Nigerian authorities have arrested at least 400 Chinese nationals suspected of cybercrime, telecom fraud and illegal mining. Many of them are facing trial.

 

But Nigerian political analyst Chukwudi Odoeme warned that China’s influence over the process could undermine the rule of law.

“The collaboration looks good, but then the relationship between Nigeria and China is something that is suspicious in this particular arrangement,” Odoeme said. “The collaboration may be defeated in the sense that China will have undue influence, and it may even lead to political release of those persons instead of subjecting them through the criminal trial system in Nigeria.”

In the first quarter of last year, Chinese companies provided 23% of Nigeria’s total imports.

Critics argue that Chinese nationals are exploiting trade routes and immigration loopholes to enter Nigeria illegally and engage in criminal activities.

Authorities say many of the arrested Chinese nationals were found to be living in Nigeria without proper documentation.

Public affairs analyst Jaye Gaskia raised concerns about the transparency of the collaboration.

“On what basis are you going into this collaboration? For what purpose?” he asked. “The conversations around trying to develop such collaborative strategies also need to be transparent, so that citizens will be able to interrogate the process to see whether national interest is going to be somehow undermined.

“We have to be careful, and we have to ensure who does the prosecution,” Gaskia said.

“The best-case scenario is for the country not to cede its own sovereignty in terms of how this is going to happen.”

Nigeria’s debt to China exceeds $5 billion — more than the bilateral loans owed to all other countries combined.

Meanwhile, Nigeria is seeking China’s backing to join the grouping of the world’s 20 largest economies, the G20, and secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

But political analyst Rotimi Olawale believes the debt should not influence how Nigeria handles criminal cases.

“I don’t think that the debt we owe China, $5 billion, will affect anything,” Olawale said.

“That’s government-to-government relations. The most important thing is that the case should not be politicized. We must clearly define our rules and uphold our laws.”

Previously, Nigeria’s parliament called for the mass deportation of illegal Chinese migrants.

 

VOA


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QNET’s Push for Women’s Financial Inclusion Gains Traction Amid Global Gender Gap Concerns

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As gender disparities in financial access persist, QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle direct-selling firm, is intensifying efforts to bridge the gap through entrepreneurship. In line with International Women’s Day 2025, QNET is aligning with this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” advocating direct selling as a viable economic lever for women’s financial independence.

Recent findings from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) 2024 report highlight the severity of financial exclusion among women. Despite making up nearly half of the global population, 40% of women worldwide remain unbanked—with a 20% lower likelihood than men to hold bank accounts and 17% less access to formal credit lines. This exclusion, affecting 1.1 billion women, is not just a socio-economic challenge but a barrier to sustainable growth.

For companies like QNET, the case for intervention is compelling. Direct selling—often dismissed in traditional financial inclusion discourse—presents an alternative pathway for women to generate income, build financial resilience, and scale entrepreneurial ventures. Through its platform, QNET provides structured mentorship, training, and business resources designed to help women establish independent enterprises.

Biram Fall, Regional General Manager, QNET Sub-Saharan Africa, said, “As part of the United Nation’s Social Development Goals, achieving gender equality to empower all women and girls is a fundamental human right and a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world.

“At QNET, we are committed to accelerating their success by equipping them with business skills, mentorship, and financial opportunities. By offering a flexible and low-barrier platform, we aim to enable women to become entrepreneurs and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.”

QNET’s commitment to women’s empowerment is evident through various initiatives, such as its signature financial literacy program, FinGreen, which was launched in Nigeria in 2022 to develop healthy financial habits through education and training in the most vulnerable communities, particularly for youth, women and those stepping into entrepreneurship in emerging economies. The programme is important in achieving the UN SDGs and establishing a stable and healthy economy in developing nations.

Akeem Ajisafe, Managing Director of Transblue Nigeria Limited, QNET’s local partner in Nigeria, speaking on the special observance, said, “At QNET, we believe that true empowerment comes from providing women with the right opportunities to succeed. Through our various initiatives, we hope to highlight our commitment to equipping women with the skills and resources they need to achieve economic independence and long-term success – addressing gender disparity in Nigeria and across Africa.”

With a strong focus on financial inclusion and skills development, QNET continues to support women in building sustainable businesses, fostering independence, and driving economic growth. As the world pushes for gender equality, QNET remains steadfast in its commitment to accelerating action and creating a more inclusive future where women thrive as leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs.


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