Healthcare expert and licensed pharmacist, Dr. Remi Olukoya, has warned Nigerians about the often-overlooked dangers of food-drug interactions, cautioning that commonly consumed foods and traditional staples may interfere with prescribed medications and compromise treatment outcomes.
Speaking during a health session, she stressed the need for greater public awareness, noting that many patients are unaware that their daily diet can affect how medicines are absorbed, metabolized, or how effectively they work in the body.
Dr. Remi Olukoya, who also is thefounder of PharmaPlan Systems revealed that 50% of patients cannot identify a single food-drug interaction affecting their own prescriptions.
She emphasized the need for greater public awareness about how everyday foods can influence the effectiveness and safety of medications, cautioning that neglecting this link could compromise treatment outcomes.
The renowned healthcare expert highlighted the often-overlooked connection between diet and medication performance, with a particular focus on African and diaspora communities. While stressing the importance of adhering to prescribed treatments, she pointed out that dietary habits play a crucial role in drug efficacy.
She underscored the fact that culturally specific diets and traditional foods should not be overlooked when prescribing or taking medications, as they can affect how drugs are absorbed or metabolized in the body.
Drawing from her book, Pharma Plan Systems, which she described as an accessible guide to food-drug interactions free of complex medical jargon, she gave examples of commonly consumed foods that can interfere with medications.
She mentioned grapefruit’s impact on some cholesterol-lowering drugs, and pointed out that bitter leaf, a popular item consumed in many African households, has the potential to affect blood sugar levels and interact with diabetes treatments.
To address these issues, Dr. Olukoya said she has introduced the Medi Meal Safe app, a digital tool designed to guide users on safe food choices while on medication, offering customized meal plans for conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
The app also alerts users to foods they should avoid or consume cautiously based on their prescriptions.
“The goal is to prevent adverse reactions and improve treatment outcomes by helping people make informed dietary choices,” Dr. Olukoya explained during the session.
During the session, participants expressed concerns about food sensitivities and the complexities surrounding traditional diets—particularly the dual effects of bitter leaf on nutrition and blood sugar regulation. In response, Dr. Olukoya advised that people should carefully consider their health conditions and medications before regularly consuming such foods.
She concluded by stressing that understanding the interaction between nutrition and medication is essential for safer and more effective healthcare, urging both patients and healthcare providers to pay closer attention to dietary habits alongside prescribed treatments.
BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—In a time when confidence in insurance is steadily growing, a satisfied customer of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc is sharing his experience to encourage more Nigerians to embrace the value of protection and peace of mind.
Mr. Abdelhamid Abdelrahman of RAP Building Solutions Ltd recently applauded the company for its swift claims settlement and attentive customer service, describing his journey as clear evidence that insurance truly works when managed by a dependable provider.
Abdelrahman explained that his decision to insure his vehicles with the company was influenced by its strong reputation and visible presence within his business environment in Lagos. Easy access to one of its offices also gave him added confidence, allowing for seamless interaction and support whenever needed. Four years on, he remains a loyal customer.
He said: “I had my doubts at some point, thinking that because they are one of the oldest insurance companies, perhaps their service might not be as efficient. But when I had a vehicle claim in 2023, it was processed in no time.”
He added that subsequent claims involving other vehicles in his fleet were handled just as efficiently, further strengthening his confidence in the company.
“Since then, I have felt that whenever I have a vehicle, I will always subscribe to their packages and services. Mutual Benefits may be one of the oldest, but they are still one of the most responsive insurance companies in Nigeria.Their response to customers’ questions and feedback is very fast. I have no regrets partnering with them,” he stated.
Abdelrahman also used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians who remain sceptical about insurance to reconsider their views.
“Many people believe insurance does not work in Nigeria, but it does. When the time comes to make a claim and it is handled smoothly, then you know insurance truly works,” he said.
Industry experts have repeatedly noted that prompt claims settlement remains one of the strongest indicators of trust and credibility in the insurance sector. According to analysts, customers are more likely to retain policies, renew coverage and recommend insurers when claims are paid quickly and transparently.
They explain that efficient claims management not only provides financial relief during difficult times but also helps improve public perception of insurance as a dependable financial safety net. In markets where scepticism exists, real customer experiences and timely claims payments often play a critical role in driving adoption.
Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc has consistently positioned prompt claims settlement as a core part of its customer promise, with billions of naira paid out monthly across life and general insurance categories.
As economic uncertainties continue to heighten the need for financial protection, stakeholders say insurers that deliver swift and seamless claims experiences are likely to enjoy stronger customer loyalty and wider market acceptance.
BY SUNDAY SAMUEL—Nasarawa State Police Command attached to Karshi Divisional Headquarters have arrested one Pastor Asonye Isaiah, 37, of Rock of Love and Adoration Ground, Old Karsh I, Abuja, for allegedly defiling a 16-year-old girl in Nasarawa State.
According to statement released by SP Ramhan Nansel, Police Public Relations Officer, via the commands official X account that the arrest followed a complaint lodged at the Division on 18th April, 2026, at about 2000hrs.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect deceived the victim’s aunt, claiming her niece was “
possessed” and required cleansing at a river. He instead took the victim to a hotel in New Karshi, where he allegedly had unlawful carnal knowledge of her twice. He further threatened to kill her if she disclosed the incident.
The crime came to light after the victim’s guardian observed unusual changes in her behaviour and questioned her. The victim was immediately taken for medical examination, which confirmed penile penetration.
Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the offence and pleaded for leniency.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Lafia, for comprehensive investigation and prosecution.
He assured that justice will be served and urged members of the public to exercise caution regarding places of worship they attend and individuals who parade themselves as clerics.