For 36 years, Tayo Oredola-Elegbede has lived with sickle cell disease. She has endured the pain, the hospital visits, and the societal stigma that comes with the condition. But rather than let it define her, she has turned her experience into advocacy — educating others on the importance of genotype awareness and fighting against the discrimination that sickle cell warriors face daily. During a recent ASHENEWS Facebook Live discussion themed “Breaking the Cycle: Sickle Cell Awareness and Access to Care in Nigeria” which was moderated by Ruth Jatto, ASHENEWS’ Social Media and Community Manager, Oredola-Elegbede, founder of the Oba Oredola…
Author: John Asishana
The harmattan season has arrived in Sokoto, painting the city in shades of dust and chill. For many, this season of extremes brings both relief and discomfort. From cracked lips and dry skin to nights wrapped in layers, the harmattan season has once again become the city’s most debated visitor. But while some see harmattan as a welcome break from Sokoto’s blistering heat, others view it as a health hazard waiting to strike. Amid the dusty haze and plummeting temperatures, residents are adapting in their own ways—each story reflecting resilience in the face of nature’s whims. From the dry, dusty…
In Sokoto State, where the relentless sun beats down on parched lands, water scarcity is not just a challenge; it is a daily struggle. For many residents, the lack of reliable access to water is a story of resilience, innovation, and survival. Yet, amidst this scarcity, reservoirs, boreholes, and government investments shine as glimmers of hope. In 2024, Sokoto State tried to put its money where its mouth is. The 2024 budget allocates ₦15.8 billion to water resources projects. The Ministry of Water Resources leads the charge with ₦8.8 billion, followed by allocations for the Water Board, Rural Water and…
Imagine being a student forced to choose between a filthy toilet or the open bush to relieve yourself. This is the harsh reality for many students in schools Sokoto State, where the lack of toilets in schools has not only led to open defecation but also jeopardized health and dignity. ASHENEWS uncovered the stark contrasts in school sanitation during visits to various schools in Sokoto. While some schools pride themselves on clean and functional toilets, others struggle with water shortages, financial constraints, or lack toilets altogether, forcing students to resort to open defecation—a practice that fuels the spread of diseases.…
Did you know that the dry weather and dust-filled winds of harmattan have a surprising benefit to farmers?
Cattle farmers in Sokoto State have shared the secrets behind their successful cattle rearing techniques, emphasizing proper feeding, milking practices, and breeding to maintain healthy cows and boost milk production.
Sokoto health professionals have shed light on the causes, symptoms, and management of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are common health issues affecting millions worldwide. They emphasized the importance of early detection and preventive measures to reduce the prevalence of these infections.
The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) says that it is making a significant impact in Sokoto State, equipping local youths with the necessary skills, tools, and financial support to boost employment and entrepreneurship.
The rising cost of fuel has triggered a significant increase in solar energy sales across Sokoto State, as more residents look for reliable and cost-effective alternatives to fuel-powered generators.
Sokoto State has emerged as a leader in family planning among northern Nigerian states, thanks to a successful collaboration between The Challenge Initiative (TCI), the government, media, and private sector partners.