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Radiographers Kick Against Controversial Health Bills, Demand Immediate Withdrawal

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The Association of Radiographers of Nigeria (ARN) has strongly opposed the proposed Dental Practitioners Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2026 (HB 2695), warning that its passage could destabilise Nigeria’s healthcare system and undermine the professional autonomy of radiographers.

The position was made known by the National President of the association, Musa Y. Dambele PhD, during a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat in Kano on Saturday.

Addressing journalists, Dambele described the bill as a “calculated and existential threat” to radiography practice in Nigeria, alleging that it is designed to transfer regulatory authority from the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria to the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.

 

Dambele highlighted Section 8(1) of the proposed bill, which contains a “notwithstanding clause” granting the MDCN overriding authority over other regulatory bodies.

According to him, the provision directly conflicts with the Radiographers (Registration, etc.) Act, Cap R1, LFN 2004, effectively stripping the RRBN of its statutory mandate.

“The clause is designed to create jurisdictional supremacy and dismantle the existing regulatory structure governing radiography in Nigeria,” he stated.

 

The ARN President also faulted Section 47 of the bill, which defines radiology as encompassing all aspects of diagnostic imaging.

He argued that such classification amounts to a deliberate attempt to subsume radiography under medicine, stressing that radiography is a distinct scientific discipline involving imaging technology, radiation physics, and patient safety.

He warned that the provision could lead to the “legal erasure” of radiography as an independent profession and place practitioners under the control of a council lacking relevant expertise.

 

 

Dambele further raised concerns over Section 8(1)(k), which empowers the MDCN to regulate the use of ultrasound, laser systems, and radiofrequency-based devices.

He maintained that these technologies are core components of radiographic practice and are not exclusive to any single profession.

He cautioned that restricting access to such tools could create workforce shortages, limit specialised services, and reduce patients’ access to essential diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

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On disciplinary matters, the ARN President criticised Sections 30 to 32 of the bill, which propose tribunals composed entirely of medical and dental practitioners to adjudicate cases involving all registered health professionals.

He argued that this arrangement violates the constitutional right to fair hearing, noting that professionals cannot be judged impartially by competing disciplines.

Dambele also opposed Section 18(3), which mandates that a significant percentage of professional fees be shared with external bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association.

He described the provision as “financial exploitation” and a form of regulatory overreach.

 

The ARN President further alleged that the proposed legislation, alongside HB 2699, represents a coordinated attempt to weaken radiography through what he described as a “pincer movement.”

According to him, while HB 2695 seeks to erode internal regulatory control, HB 2699 aims to impose external constraints that could cripple the profession.

 

Dambele expressed concern over provisions that expand the powers of the Minister of Health to influence the composition and leadership of regulatory boards, warning that such measures could politicise professional regulation.

He also criticised attempts to dilute the authority of the RRBN in appointing its Registrar, describing it as an erosion of institutional independence.

Furthermore, he opposed the inclusion of loosely defined “community interest” representatives in regulatory boards, arguing that healthcare regulation should remain technical, evidence-based, and competence-driven.

 

Citing global best practices, Dambele noted that in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, healthcare professions are regulated independently to ensure accountability and professional competence.

He warned that adopting contrary measures in Nigeria could set a dangerous precedent, trigger inter-professional conflicts, and weaken healthcare delivery systems.

The ARN, he added, aligns with other health sector stakeholders, including the Joint Health Sector Unions, as well as professional bodies in medical laboratory science and physiotherapy, in opposing the bill.

 

Dambele said the association is calling on the National Assembly to:

Reject the bill in its current form

Uphold the principle of professional self-regulation

Remove provisions enabling external control and dominance

Retain the statutory powers of the RRBN, particularly in appointing its Registrar

Convene a stakeholders’ summit to develop a harmonised regulatory framework in line with international standards

 

The ARN President emphasised that radiographers play a critical role in delivering diagnostic and therapeutic services, including X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, radiotherapy, and nuclear medicine.

He warned that any attempt to centralise control under a single profession could compromise patient safety and reduce the quality of healthcare delivery.

 

Dambele reiterated the association’s commitment to defending the integrity of the profession and called on Nigerians to support efforts aimed at preserving a balanced and effective healthcare system.

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‎China, Nigeria Mark Friendship with Joint Cultural Mural

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‎A colourful mural celebrating both China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day has been unveiled at an overseas project site, serving as a vivid symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations.
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‎The artwork, jointly produced by Chinese and Nigerian staff, features builders dressed in traditional Chinese costumes and Nigerian ethnic attire holding hands and dancing together.
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Above them, fireworks and white doves of peace illuminate the sky, while the inscription “10.1” highlights the dual significance of October 1, the China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day.
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‎On the left side of the mural, ancient Chinese architecture, red lanterns and auspicious cloud motifs showcase Chinese heritage.
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On the right, red earth, coconut palms and African drums reflect Nigeria’s cultural identity. Flowing ribbons weave across the painting, symbolising unity and shared destiny.
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‎Project officials described the mural as a “living testament” to cooperation at the frontline of development. They said it embodies mutual trust and support as workers from both countries overcome challenges together.
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‎The initiative underscores cultural integration and partnership, with both sides pledging to continue working hand in hand to strengthen ties.
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“Celebrating two festivals as one, we march forward with one heart,” a statement read, emphasising the commitment to write new chapters of friendship along the path of cooperation.
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‎The mural, rooted in the overseas project site, stands as a reminder of the brotherly bond between China and Nigeria, and the shared vision of building together for a brighter future.

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Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso Celebrates Senator Lado @60, Says Is A Political Dogma

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From Muhammad Kabir Kano

The spokesperson of Political Appointees Forum from Kano State, Dr. Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, has described Senator Basheer Lado, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on National Assembly Matters (Senate), who also doubles as the Chairman of the Appointees, on his 60th birthday, as a Political Blog who plays the game with maturity and respect.

Kwankwaso who also describes Senator as Political Dogma, praised his contributions to democratic governance, humanitarian services and national development.

“Senator Lado is a dependable public servant and accomplished legislator whose experience had helped strengthen relations between the Executive and the Senate and also steer ship the activities of the Political Appointees with huge respect and understanding”,

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He said it is on notice that Lado served in the Senate for four years before his by late President Buhari on Relief agency and subsequent appointment as Tinubu’s liaison officer in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

Lado represented Kano Central Senatorial District in the Seventh National Assembly from 2011 to 2015, where he served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works.

Lado facilitated several constituency projects, including the Kundila Bridge, popularly known as Gadar Lado, in Kano State. His contributions to humanitarian services through his previous roles as Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, and Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

He said Lado contributed to protecting vulnerable Nigerians, combating human trafficking and improving the welfare and rehabilitation of displaced persons.

Kwankwaso further commended the senator’s humanitarian initiatives through the Ladon Alheri Foundation, particularly in education, healthcare, women’s economic empowerment, rural water supply and support for disadvantaged communities.

” Lado’s contributions across public service reflected his commitment to national development and the welfare of Nigerians”, he added.

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EFCC Reopens Atiku’s Alleged Financial Crimes Probe

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reopened its investigation into allegations against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar following a petition by former House of Representatives member, Hon. Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, seeking his prosecution over alleged financial crimes.

The petition seeks to revive a case dating back to 2006, asking the anti-graft agency to revisit its investigation under former chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and consider a subsequent report by a United States Senate subcommittee.

Speaking on the development, Agbonayinma said the EFCC had acknowledged his petition, dated August 27, 2026, and received on September 1. Filed through his lawyer, Chief Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo, SAN, the petition asks the commission to reactivate its earlier report and act on the allegations.

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The former lawmaker appeared at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, where he adopted the petition and answered questions from investigators.

Agbonayinma said the matter should not be allowed to remain unresolved.

“I want to thank Nigerians, the EFCC, and those praying for me in this struggle. The laws are meant for both the rich and the poor. After the EFCC has done a fantastic job, it should not be kept under the table,” he said.

In the petition, Agbonayinma urged the EFCC to revisit its September 2006 report on Atiku and a February 4, 2010, report by the US Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, arguing that both documents should form the basis for renewed action.

The petition alleged that the EFCC had previously indicated that Atiku could face prosecution after leaving office as vice-president, when his constitutional immunity ceased to apply, but that no prosecution followed.

Agbonayinma described the alleged failure to act as a dereliction of duty and argued that pursuing the matter would demonstrate the commission’s resolve to hold politically influential figures accountable.

He also disclosed that he had petitioned US President Donald Trump over the allegations.

The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, had yet to respond to messages seeking an update on the investigation as of the time of filing this report.

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