The African Public Relations Association (APRA) has condemned the recent terror attack in the Burkinabe town of Barsalogho in the Sanmatenga Province of the Republic, which has killed so many people and injured scores of persons.

In a statement on Friday, signed by Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, secretary-general, APRA, the body said it is greatly concerned about the increasing terror attacks in Burkina Faso and in other parts of Africa.

“The umbrella body of practitioners and  professionals of  public relations in  Africa hereby calls for the cessation of all forms of attacks, especially on unarmed people. We call for dialogue as a more civil approach to resolving conflicts instead of violent attacks leading to destruction and catastrophic outcomes that leave the continent more devastated.

“We  are  gravely disturbed by  this recent attack in  Burkina Faso, coming on  the  heels of  the  death of over 500 persons due to mpox scourge caused by the monkeypox  virus  ravaging  the  Democratic Republic of  Congo, DRC, the hotbed of  the health crisis; and the distressing floods caused by  the collapse of the Arba’ at Dam in the east of the Republic of Sudan, destroying or impacting about 70 communities and affecting telecommunication infrastructure and other utilities. These and many emergent humanitarian crises in Africa have been overwhelming enough for a great but challenged continent. Therefore, entrenched terror attacks can only worsen efforts at restoring the glory of the continent.

“As a body of communication managers, APRA iterates its call for increased, sincere and responsible conversation and concrete actions among state actors and other stakeholders in  Africa  to  address these and future challenges, many of which are heralded by warning signs. Therefore, APRA calls on the World Health Organisation (WHO) to resume strengthening collaboration with  the  government  and people of DRC because mpox is yet to be defeated as an existential global health issue.

APRA stands in solidarity with the Governments and people of Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Sudan. We  commiserate with those who have lost family members and friends. We also wish those injured and displaced speedy recovery.

The NNPC Ltd has flagged off the third edition of the Vision First Programme, as part of comprehensive community-focused healthcare outreach targeted at the Ilaje community and its environs in Bariga, Lagos State.  

The Vision First programme is a continuation of NNPC Ltd/ SNEPCo Production Sharing Contract (PSC) commitment to advancing health and well-being within its host communities. Through this initiative, over 1,000 individuals will receive free eye care services, alongside a range of general healthcare provisions. The services include cardiovascular screening, BMI assessments, laboratory services, consultations, treatment of mild and chronic diseases, and distribution of insecticide-treated nets. 

Since its inception, the Vision First programme has made a significant impact, with over 1,853 individuals benefiting from free eye care services. The Lagos edition, which began in 2022, has screened 2,000 people, provided 1,199 prescription glasses, administered medication to 1,310 beneficiaries, and facilitated successful procedures for 189 individuals.

The initiative is also aligned with the Mallam Mele Kyari-led Management commitment of making positive impact in NNPC Ltd’s host communities and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians through sustainable partnerships.

In his remarks, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (CUIO – NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti stated that the Vision First Plus programme represents a commitment to restoring hope and improving lives within NNPC Ltd commour communities.

“Through this programme, we aim to ensure that preventable vision challenges do not hold anyone back. By providing eye screenings, corrective lenses, surgeries, and general healthcare, we’re dedicated to bringing clarity and brighter futures to those who need it most,” Wunti, who was represented by Mrs. Bunmi Lawson, added.  

The outreach emphasized the significance of proactive health management, highlighting that healthy eyes lead to a brighter future. Attendees were encouraged to protect their vision through regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and adequate rest. 

The Vision First programme embodies the spirit of collaboration and the essence of giving back to the communities where NNPC Ltd operates. It also signifies the Company’s commitment to investing in social initiatives that leave a lasting positive impact. 

The sponsors of malicious allegations and attacks on the Minister of Defense, Dr Bello Matawalle, the Director General of DSS, Mr. Yusuf Magaji Bichi, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the IG of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and other top government officials, are on it again.

Commenting on the matter, Habib Ahmed, a Public Analyst, believes they are circulating spurious write up through an unknown and faceless group to attack top government functionaries, “this is orchestrated by the arrest of one Bashir Hadeija who they collaborate with and also use him to propagate false and nefarious information.

“This Bashir Hadeija uses all sorts of deceitful ways including name dropping to manipulate the public.

Since the arrest of Bashir Hadeija and the revelations he is making, certain individuals are jittery because investigation is closing in on them.

“Zamfara State Governor, former NSA , Defence minister  and others who are sponsoring  Bashir Hadeija have embarked on campaign of calumny against  Dr Matawalle, IGP, NSA , DG DSS and other credible top government  officials.

“Dr Matawalle does not have need to smear the image of any one as he is busy with efforts to enhance national security.

“Bashir Hadeija and his cohorts who have been found with Gold with the inscription of former late  Libyan leader whose street value is unimaginable.  Bashir Hadeija is an international crook who has been caught up by wrath of the law is capable of subversive activities.

“Arrest of Bashir Hadeija has triggered more reactions and thank God that Bashir Hadeija mentioned the names of Zamfara Governor, Ali Gusau, Badaru and as a result of this, they have started  attacks on  Matawalle, Nuhu Ribadu, DG DSS and IGP but this should not deter them in ensuring that justice is done.

“The anticipated attacks from the named accomplices of  Bashir Hadeija against high profile Nigerians should be ignored.  A person who stole Gold from Libya can say anything to anybody. The public should ignore them”, Habib Ahmed, said.