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Diphtheria Scare in Edo State: Calls for School Closure Amid Rising Cases

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  Edo State is currently battling a public health scare as diphtheria cases emerge, raising concern among residents, health professionals, and civil society. With six confirmed cases and three reported fatalities, the outbreak has prompted urgent calls for preventive measures to contain further spread. Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection affecting the nose and throat, often fatal if left untreated. The Edo State Ministry of Health has confirmed the detection of both diphtheria and dengue fever, adding complexity to the state’s health response. So far, over 15 suspected diphtheria cases have been identified, with health officials moving swiftly to activate surveillance teams and conduct community sensitization. In a proactive appeal, the Concerned Edo Citizens Forum submitted an open letter to Governor Godwin Obaseki, urging the temporary closure of schools to protect children, who are among the most vulnerable to the disease. The group also recommended limitin...
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West Africa Wants Deals with Trump, but US Entry Bans Pose Barrier –Nigerian minister

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As the 2024 U.S. elections approach, West African leaders are expressing renewed interest in strengthening economic ties with a potential second Trump administration. However, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs has voiced concern that existing U.S. travel restrictions on several African nations may stand in the way of fruitful cooperation.

In a recent statement, the minister emphasized that while West Africa is open to building pragmatic relationships with any U.S. administration, including a potential return of Donald Trump to the White House, immigration and visa restrictions remain a major obstacle. “Our region is interested in investment, security collaboration, and trade partnerships,” he said. “But restrictive policies like entry bans, which disproportionately affect Africans, send the wrong message.”

During Trump's first term, his administration imposed travel bans on several countries, including Nigeria, citing security concerns and inadequate information-sharing systems. Although the Biden administration later reversed some of those bans, the lingering impact on diplomatic relations remains a point of concern for African leaders.

The Nigerian minister noted that West African nations are eager to explore new trade agreements, especially in areas like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. However, he warned that mutual trust and ease of mobility are essential for meaningful engagement. “You cannot build sustainable partnerships when people from the region are unable to enter the U.S. for business, education, or diplomatic missions,” he added.

Analysts believe that if Trump returns to power, African countries will need to carefully balance their diplomatic approaches, advocating for better treatment while still seeking common ground on shared interests. Many see this as a test of U.S.-Africa relations in a shifting global landscape, especially as China and Russia continue to strengthen their presence on the continent.

In conclusion, West Africa is signaling readiness to work with any U.S. government, including Trump’s. But for that partnership to thrive, the next administration will need to rebuild trust and remove the barriers that have previously alienated key African allies.

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