Clinical Psychologist Reveals High Rate of Depression Among Nigerian Women
According to Dr. Akin Gabriel, a clinical psychologist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Yaba, Lagos, approximately four out of 10 Nigerian women are experiencing some form of depression. In an interview Gabriel highlighted the prevalence of depression among women in the country. Gabriel also noted that around 25 percent of depressed women eventually reach a breaking point and require treatment for their condition. He emphasized that depression is just one of the many conditions associated with mental illness and stressed the importance of mental health in overall wellbeing. The psychologist explained that mental health plays a crucial role in an individual’s ability to cope with life’s challenges, achieve goals, and maintain healthy relationships. He warned that neglecting mental health can lead to negative impacts, including physical illnesses. Gabriel urged individuals to pay attention to subtle changes in their mental wellbeing, such as increased difficulty in completing tasks, heightened emotions, and changes in sleep patterns or appetite. He outlined common signs of depression, including low moods, feelings of inadequacy, and withdrawal from social interactions. In discussing depression in men, Gabriel pointed out that fewer men seek help for mental health issues, often due to cultural beliefs about masculinity. He stressed the importance of recognizing signs of depression in men, such as substance abuse, increased aggression, and changes in behavior. Overall, Gabriel emphasized the importance of seeking help early for depression, as timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals struggling with the condition. By raising awareness about mental health and encouraging open discussions about depression, we can work towards breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness in Nigeria. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
ECG Managing Director Apologizes For Recent Power Outages
The Managing Director for Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Samuel Dubik Mahama, has issued a public apology to Ghanaians who have been affected by the recent power outages in various parts of the country. The power outages have been ongoing for several days without prior notice from ECG or GridCo. Mr. Mahama made this statement during an interview on Starr Chat with Bola Ray on Thursday, February 29, 2024. He explained that the challenges with the recent power outages were mainly due to maintenance issues, and ECG takes full responsibility for the situation. “We are at the bottom of the food chain and the one that gives you the power and distributes the power. There is an intermediary who carries the power from the generators to us. So when this whole thing was happening there was conversation at the top,” Mr. Mahama said. He assured the public that ECG was working diligently to resolve the issues as quickly as possible. However, he emphasized the need for accountability and apologized for the inconvenience caused to consumers. In response to the power crisis, the Minority in Parliament has urged the government to find an immediate solution to the instability experienced by electricity users. John Jinapor, Ranking Member for the Committee on Mines and Energy, revealed that 530 MW of power was lost on Wednesday, resulting in widespread power cuts and supply reductions to neighboring countries. Jinapor cited a lack of funds to purchase fuel as a major factor contributing to the power crisis. He also highlighted the shutdown of some Thermal plants, warning that the country’s power sector is on the brink of collapse. The ongoing power outages have raised concerns among Ghanaians, with calls for urgent action to address the root causes of the problem and avoid further disruptions to the electricity supply. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Ghana’s Parliament Clarifies Outstanding Electricity Bill is GH¢12 Million, Not GH¢23 Million
The House of Parliament in Ghana has set the record straight regarding their outstanding electricity bill, which stands at GH¢12 million and not the previously reported GH¢23 million. This clarification comes after the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) cut power supply to Parliament and its office complex for MPs as part of its ‘Operation Zero Balance’ campaign. Deputy Clerk of Corporate and Financial Management Services Division in Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, explained that Parliament had made a payment of GH¢13 million on Tuesday, 27 February 2024, leaving a balance of GH¢12 million to be cleared. He noted that some of the payments made by Parliament were not properly captured by ECG’s records. In an interview, Mr Djietror emphasized, “As far as we are concerned, we’ve made payment. All the payment we have made, some have not reflected in their system.” He also mentioned that Parliament had provided a breakdown of their payments to the Deputy Managing Director of ECG and were in the process of reconciling the account. To ensure accuracy in the reconciliation process, Mr Djietror stated, “We are going to get the bank to extract all the payments we’ve made in terms of the dates. I’m not sure how it’s captured, so, there’s a gap in terms of the reconciliation as to what is the outstanding bill.” Through these efforts, Parliament aims to clear up any discrepancies and settle their electricity bill with ECG. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Cristiano Ronaldo handed one-match ban and fined in Saudi Arabia
Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been given a one-match ban and fined 30,000 Saudi Riyals by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) for allegedly “provoking fans” after the team’s victory over Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League. The incident occurred after Al-Shabab supporters taunted Ronaldo by chanting “Messi,” the name of his longtime rival Lionel Messi. In response, the 39-year-old forward cupped his hand to his ear and made a gesture towards the fans. The SAFF disciplinary and ethics committee has stated that Ronaldo cannot appeal the decision, meaning he will miss an upcoming match for Al-Nassr. Despite the setback, Ronaldo’s impact in the league has been significant since joining Al-Nassr on a free transfer from Manchester United in December 2022, reportedly securing the biggest football salary in history. Ronaldo has scored 20 goals in 22 league games this season and opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the Al-Shabab clash, which ended in a 3-2 victory for Al-Shabab with an 87th-minute winner from Talisca. His move to the Saudi Pro League has attracted attention, with other top European players following suit. Ronaldo’s historic rivalry with Lionel Messi has continued even after both players moved to different leagues. His absence will be a blow to Al-Nassr as they aim to maintain their position in the league, currently sitting in second place behind Al-Hilal. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
NPP Warned of Political Consequences if President Akufo-Addo Rejects Anti-LGBTQI Bill
The Executive Secretary for the National Coalition for Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, Mr. Moses Foh-Amoaning, has cautioned the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that there will be a significant political price to pay if President Nana Akufo-Addo refuses to sign the recently passed anti-LGBTQI bill. The bill on Human Sexual Rights and Family Values, also known as the anti-LGBTQ bill, was approved by the country’s legislature criminalizing LGBT activities and banning their promotion, advocacy, and funding. Individuals engaged in such activities could face jail terms ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors could be sentenced to three to five years. Before the bill’s passage, sponsors initiated a motion for further consideration, leading to amendments proposed by MP Samuel Nartey George regarding clauses 10 and 11 concerning media firms’ editorial policies. These amendments, aligning with Article 12 of the 1992 constitution guaranteeing media freedom, were approved by the House. However, a motion to subject clause 12, addressing the funding of LGBT activities, to the constitution filed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin was rejected by the House. The bill’s approval by Parliament came after a plea from Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), asking President Akufo-Addo to disapprove it. The bill cannot take effect until the President signs it into law. Mr Foh-Amoaning expressed confidence in President Akufo-Addo’s stance, citing his background of faith and belief in God. He warned that if the President fails to sign the bill, it could have electoral implications for the NPP, as the opposition NDC could use it as a campaign tool, labeling the ruling party as the “Trumu Trumu” party in the run-up to the December 2024 elections. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Upper East Minister Receives Petition, frown against harassment at workplace
The Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu, recently received a petition on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo concerning the ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190 on violence and harassment in the workplace in Ghana. The petition was submitted by the Trades Union Congress (TUC). During the presentation of the petition, the Minister emphasized that it is unacceptable for anyone to experience harassment or abuse, particularly in a work environment. He highlighted the government’s commitment to the welfare of Ghanaians, pointing to recent initiatives such as a 23 percent increase in the salaries of public sector workers. Additionally, the Minister stated that the current administration had generated a significant number of job opportunities, backed by scientific data. He urged Ghanaian workers to vote for Alhaji Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia in the upcoming general elections on December 7th to ensure the continuation of the government’s achievements. Madam Scholastica Tagtir Dery, the Regional Secretary of the TUC, delivered the petition following a demonstration by members on the streets of Bolgatanga. The petition highlighted that a concerning 71.7 percent of respondents in a survey of 20,279 individuals reported experiencing some form of violence or harassment at work, with women accounting for 53 percent and individuals aged 22 to 35 representing 67.9 percent. The primary objective of ratifying the ILO Convention 190 is to establish safer workplaces for all employees and to combat gender-based violence effectively. Madam Dery emphasized that the implementation and enforcement of the convention are crucial for its success. She acknowledged the efforts of the government, as well as the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, and other stakeholders in advancing the ratification of Convention 190 to ensure a safer and more inclusive work environment in Ghana. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.