The European Union (EU) has said that it supported Nigeria and five other Sahel countries affected by the flood with 5.4 million Euros.

In a statement issued by the bloc and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Monday, the other countries that benefitted are Chad, Niger, Cameroon, Mali and Burkina Faso

The bloc noted that the fund was meant to assist the more than 4.4 million people estimated to be affected by floods in the countries.

“Floods have led to the destruction of houses, public health facilities, water systems, schools and sanitation facilities as well as roads, infrastructures, and agricultural areas.

“Moreover, the lack of access to water, hygiene, and sanitation services is increasing the risk of spreading of waterborne diseases.

“This funding will help our humanitarian partners on the ground, to provide immediate aid and respond to the most urgent needs concerning food, shelter, access to clean water and sanitation and other essential services in the hardest-hit areas.

“The amount will be distributed as follows: Chad one million Euro; Niger 1.350 million Euro; Nigeria 1.1 million Euro; Mali one million Euro and Cameroon 650,000 Euro and Burkina Faso 300,000 Euro.

“The funding comes in addition to 232 million Euro in humanitarian assistance already allocated to these countries so far this year.

“The EU and its partners had already responded to the immediate consequences of floods in Liberia, Guinea, Chad, Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon and Mali,’’ the bloc said.

In the statement, Mr Janez Lenarčič, the Commissioner for Crisis Management was quoted to have said: “Excessive rainfalls had lashed the Sahel and Lake Chad regions with unprecedented impact, displacing millions and causing widespread suffering and damage.

“We are mobilising all means at our disposal to help the most vulnerable in the flood-stricken countries, so they can receive much needed relief’’.

No fewer than 31. 8 million people in Nigeria are acutely food insecure, the highest number globally, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has said.

Compared to the 2023 lean season, 28 per cent more people are facing acute food insecurity this year – 4.8 million people in the North-east and 6.2 million people in the North-west, WFP said.

Citing the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) dashboard, in its “WFP Nigeria: Situation Report #82 -19 September 2024,” the organisation said

1,075,485 people have been affected by flooding countrywide, with the highest prevalence in the North-east and North-west.

“The floods have also destroyed 442,790 hectares of crop and increased malnutrition rates in the North-east and North-west states-

“The number of severely and moderately malnourished children admitted at treatment facilities has on average increased by 41 per cent and 70 per cent respectively compared to 2023.

“Persisting macroeconomic crisis with food inflation near the 30-year record. Prices of staple foods like maize, millet, sorghum and beans averaging between 100-300 per cent beyond last year prices across surveyed markets.

“To complement the flood response by the government, WFP is providing hot meals in the temporary camps set up for flood affected people, reaching 77,698 people with hot meals across the four camps within 3 days.

“Beyond the flood response, WFP is delivering assistance to 1.6 million people in September across the North-east and northwest for emergency assistance and resilience building.

“The main driver of food insecurity in Nigeria is the continued conflict in the northeast and the escalating clashes in the northwest and north-central, which disrupts livelihood activities, limits access to income-generating activities, drives population displacement and constrains sustainable food production.

“Inflation has skyrocketed and is not decreasing as expected with the start of the current harvest,” the UN agency said.

According to the WFP, the severe floods since July 2024 have increased displacement and worsened the challenges to food security, adding that its Advanced Disaster Analysis & Mapping (ADAM) reports 1.9 million hectares of flooded areas, including 442,000 hectares of crops destroyed ahead of the harvest.

“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reports that over half a million people have been displaced by flooding in the northeast and northwest states.

“This is in addition to over 3.6 million internally displaced people in the North-east and Northwest as of June 2024.

“Malnutrition rates in northern Nigeria are exceeding lean season projections due to disease prevalence, high recurring displacements, and access constraints,”  WFP.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in our individual pursuits and overlook the importance of nurturing friendships. However, having close friends can have a profound impact on our mental health. Research shows that strong social connections can reduce stress, improve mood, and even increase our lifespan.

The Benefits of Friendship for Mental Health:

1. Stress Reduction: Friends provide emotional support, helping us cope with life’s challenges.
2. Mood Boost: Social interactions release endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones.
3. Self-Esteem Enhancement: Positive friendships foster self-confidence and self-worth.
4. Emotional Regulation: Friends help us process emotions, reducing anxiety and depression.
5. Social Support Network: Friends provide practical help, advice, and encouragement.

The Science Behind Friendship and Mental Health:

1. Oxytocin: Social bonding releases oxytocin, promoting feelings of trust and attachment.
2. Dopamine: Social interactions stimulate dopamine release, associated with pleasure and reward.
3. Reduced Cortisol: Friendship reduces cortisol levels, mitigating stress’s negative effects.

Tips for Nurturing Friendships:

1. Schedule Regular Meet-Ups: Prioritize face-to-face interactions.
2. Join Social Groups: Expand your social circle through shared interests.
3. Practice Active Listening: Engage fully with friends, fostering deeper connections.
4. Show Appreciation: Express gratitude and support for your friends.

Friendships are a vital component of a healthy, happy life. By investing in meaningful relationships, we can:

• Enhance mental wellbeing.
• Increase resilience.
• Improve overall quality of life.

So, take the time to nurture your friendships and reap the rewards of a stronger, healthier mind.

When it comes to jeans, there are two dominant styles: skinny and baggy. Both have their loyal followings, but which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each style, helping you decide.

Skinny Jeans:

Pros:

1. Flattering silhouette: Accentuates legs and curves.
2. Versatility: Suitable for dressing up or down.
3. Comfort: Stretchy fabrics provide flexibility.

Cons:

1. Restrictive: Tight fit can be uncomfortable.
2. Limited mobility: Difficult to move freely.
3. Fading: Thinner fabric prone to fading.

Baggy Jeans:

Pros:

1. Comfortable: Loose fit allows for ease of movement.
2. Relaxed style: Perfect for casual, laid-back looks.
3. Durable: Thicker fabric resists wear and tear.

Cons:

1. Unflattering: Can add bulk to legs.
2. Limited versatility: Mostly suited for casual wear.
3. Overwhelming: Excessive bagginess overwhelms frame.

The Verdict:

Ultimately, the choice between skinny and baggy jeans depends on:

1. Personal style
2. Body type
3. Occasion

Tips for Choosing the Right Style:

1. Consider your body shape: Skinny jeans suit slender frames, while baggy jeans complement athletic builds.
2. Dress for the occasion: Skinny jeans for nights out, baggy jeans for casual gatherings.
3. Balance comfort and style: Find a happy medium between fit and flexibility.

Current Trends:

1. Sustainable denim.
2. Hybrid styles (e.g., slim-fit, relaxed-skinny)
3. Statement accessories to elevate jeans.

Whether you’re a skinny jeans devotee or a baggy jeans enthusiast, remember:

• Confidence is key
• Comfort matters
• Personal style prevails

Choose the style that makes you feel great, and rock it.

Citizens of the United States of America (U.S) residing in Nigeria can vote in the November 2024 elections.

The U.S Diplomatic Mission Nigeria made the announcement in a statement it shared on its official X account on Monday morning.

“Attention U.S. citizens residing in Nigeria! To vote in the November 2024 elections, all citizens overseas must complete three steps,” it wrote.

“Request a ballot and visit FVAP.gov for instructions. Receive and complete your ballot. Return your ballot.

“You may drop off your completed ballot in a postage-paid envelope at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or the Consulate General in Lagos or you may mail it yourself.”

It said voting is one of the fundamental rights as Americans, adding that members of the military, their families and private citizens residing outside the United States can choose to exercise that right from anywhere in the world.

The mission has also directed Americans residing outside of the country to register to vote and request their ballot with the Federal Post Card Application.

When it comes to choosing a refreshing beverage, many of us are torn between fruit juice and carbonated drinks. While both may quench your thirst, the nutritional benefits and health implications are worlds apart. In this article, we’ll explore why fruit juice is the better choice.

Fruit Juice: The Nutrient-Rich Alternative

Fruit juice, made from 100% fruit, offers numerous benefits:

1. Vitamins and Minerals: Fruit juice is packed with essential vitamins (A, C, and D) and minerals (potassium, calcium, and iron).
2. Antioxidants: Fruit juice contains antioxidants that combat free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Many fruits, like berries and citrus, have anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Supports Healthy Digestion: Fruit juice contains dietary fiber, aiding digestion and satiety.

The Dark Side of Carbonated Drinks

Carbonated drinks, on the other hand, are linked to several health concerns:

1. High Sugar Content: Carbonated drinks are often loaded with added sugars, contributing to obesity and diabetes.
2. Acidity: Carbonated drinks have a low pH level, potentially eroding tooth enamel and harming digestive health.
3. Artificial Ingredients: Many carbonated drinks contain artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
4. Link to Chronic Diseases: Consuming carbonated drinks regularly increases the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

Comparison Chart:

Tips for Choosing the Best Fruit Juice

1. Opt for 100% fruit juice without added sugars.
2. Select juices with pulp and fiber for extra nutrition.
3. Limit juice intake to 4-6 ounces per serving.
4. Consider making your own juice at home.

Ditch the fizz and choose fruit juice for a healthier, more nutritious drink. With its wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, fruit juice is the clear winner. Make the switch and reap the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.