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Chikwe Ihekweazu Profile
Chikwe Ihekweazu

@Chikwe_I

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Assistant Director General, @WHO Division of Health Emergency Intelligence & Surveillance Systems| WHO Hub for Pandemic & Epidemic Intelligence. Opinions mine

Berlin, Geneva
Joined August 2015
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
5 days
The story of a nascent organisation @NCDCgov that found itself at the heart of an unprecedented pandemic It is also a story about the dedicated #Nigerians that I met in public service Plus the impact it had on us, & everyone around us with @VIhekweazu A book we had to write
@masobebooks
Masobe Books
6 days
“This book provides a compelling narrative of Nigeria’s COVID-19 response, as told through Chikwe’s unique lens as DG of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. I commend this book for its exploration of Nigeria’s resilient response — a true testament to collaborative efforts,…
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
I am well and have continued my duties from home since my return from China as part of the WHO-China Mission on #COVID19 The rumour that I am sick or in quarantine is obviously false. I look forward to returning to the office after 14 days of self-isolation 😁
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Grateful for recognition given to work by @NCDCgov , @Fmohnigeria & partners by His Excellency, @MBuhari during his address to #Nigerians Days ahead will be tough but if we jointly #TakeResponsibility in the fight against #COVID19 , we can pull through faster #StrongerTogether
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We have been to 8 states in the last 3 days, thanks to the excellent support from our @NigAirForce The impeccable professionalism & punctuality of the officers enabled us meet our objectives to engage the leadership of states,to strengthen Nigeria’s #COVID19 response THANK YOU!
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We’re desperately looking for more RNA extraction kits as we expand #COVID19 testing Product: Total viral RNA extraction kits (preferably spin column and with a lysis buffer) Manufacturers: Qiagen, ThermoFischer, SeeGene, Inqaba, LifeRiver etc. 📧: ncdclabnetwork @ncdc .gov.ng
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Thanks to incredible efforts of a joint Team from @NCDCgov @KNSMOH @aminukanoth & our partners, the #COVID19 lab at AKTH, Kano is back up & testing has resumed A 2nd lab at Bayero University Kano will be activated tomorrow Not where we want to be yet, but will #keeppushing
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We’re extremely busy. Our call handlers are taking hundreds of calls every day, 24/7 including weekends, from across Nigeria Please be patient with us & help us by pulling together. The criticism distracts us from critical work We are trying VERY hard to meet all urgent needs
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Very grateful to everyone who reached out to solve this challenge with us. Our support to each other, even when done quietly, will enable us pull through. One day, we will tell the story of this response in full. For now, we #keeppushing
@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We’re desperately looking for more RNA extraction kits as we expand #COVID19 testing Product: Total viral RNA extraction kits (preferably spin column and with a lysis buffer) Manufacturers: Qiagen, ThermoFischer, SeeGene, Inqaba, LifeRiver etc. 📧: ncdclabnetwork @ncdc .gov.ng
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
📢 #COVID19Nigeria UPDATE📢 The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has created a new microsite specifically for #COVID19 Guidelines developed Frequently Asked Questions Infographics for download Daily situation reports And More!
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We are dealing with a new virus. There are 47 countries that have reported at least 1 case A case is not a sign of failure. Our @NCDCgov was set up for situations like this. We are working 24/7 with the relevant state governments Please avoid rumours & panic #FactsNotFear
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Photos of the road to our @NCDCgov National Reference Laboratory...before and after Very grateful to @OfficialFCTA for supporting the tarring of the road to our laboratory in Gaduwa. This is incredible support for our lab staff and processes such as sample transportation
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
This Twitter account ( @ChikweIhekweazu ) is not mine. I have only one account which is verified. Please disregard any posts, comments or activities from this account Cc @Twitter @TwitterSupport
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Very proud of this #NCDCTeam and health workers across our country, who continue to rise to the challenge!
@nighealthwatch
Nigeria Health Watch
4 years
Meet the Nigerians at the frontlines of #Nigeria ’s #COVID19 response. In our first #NHWTorchlightSeries photo story, @alagboso focuses on those working at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory in Gaduwa, Abuja. 👉 #PreventEpidemicsNaija
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today in Rivers State, I met with His Excellency, the Executive Governor @GovWike & members of the State Emergency Operations Centre for #COVID19 With its critical role in Nigeria's economy, we will continue to work hard, together, to prevent, detect and respond
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Yesterday, I met with the Executive Governors of Imo & Anambra, as well as the NCDC & State Rapid Response Teams, working very hard to strengthen #COVID19 preparedness & response activities Never has the future of our country depended on public health measures in our states.....
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Pleasure to meet with His Excellency Oyo State Governor @seyiamakinde , his Team & colleagues from UCH Ibadan Great to discuss the state’s progress in strengthening #COVID19 response activities, including strong collaboration with private sector. Lot more to do #KeepPushing #Oyo
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Spent Easter in Lagos with Team from @LSMOH @NCDCgov @AfenetNigeria @WHONigeria responding to #COVID19 Sacrifice is at the heart of Easter. Hundreds of colleagues across Nigeria spending Easter away from our families as we respond. We do this to protect the health of Nigerians
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Over the last few days, we‘ve engaged more volunteers at @NCDCgov call centre & expanded the lines We kindly request for understanding if you‘ve any challenges calling us. You can send us a DM as well We are working very hard to expand our capacity & automate processes
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, Honourable Minister @DrEOEhanire and I briefed His Excellency @MBuhari on our response activities and critical next steps. Many countries across the world are facing similar challenges at this time. We have to keep together to control this pandemic 📸 @BayoOmoboriowo
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
I wear a mask everyday, to protect my family, my colleagues, my friends and other people in my country. One way that we can all contribute to quickly controlling the #COVID19 outbreak in Nigeria is by wearing masks #MaskOnNaija #WearAMask challenge
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, we remember Dr. Stella Ameyo Adadevoh for her bravery & leadership during Nigeria’s 2014 #Ebola outbreak I’m very proud of @drasatrust ’s work especially in training health workers to protect themselves against infectious diseases We’ll never forget 📷 @drasatrust
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
This was 2007 @TEDGlobal in Arusha. I listened to @NOIweala speak about her journey. She ignited & inspired my passion & dedication to strive for excellence in public service Today, I celebrate my big sister. She represents the best of all Nigerians, for women, for humanity
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
The World Health Organization @WHO has launched a live data dashboard for the multi-country monkeypox outbreak. Access via: More details on the epidemiological data can be found in the online epidemiological report here:
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
This headline from @rheinpfalz referring to the Omicron variant as “The virus out of Africa" is derogatory, simply wrong & harms the public health response. It creates a damaging narrative and negatively impacts attempts at global solidarity. #Solidarity
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Mallam Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to President @MBuhari We are very grateful for his strong support to the growth of @NCDCgov and his guidance through the journey...
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
In Ogun State, I met with H.E Governor @dabiodunMFR , HC @drtomicoker & the Team leading the state’s response to #COVID19 With its industial base,proximity to Lagos,we remain strongly committed to working with the state in strengthening their response capacity #KeepPushing #Ogun
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
Look under Federal Government College, Enugu. :) We are giving back. To build our country, we absolutely need our public schools to work at primary and secondary levels.
@toluogunlesi
Tolu Ogunlesi, MON
3 years
Found these online: Unity School Scholarships from @NigeriaGov , January 1985 (1984-85 School Year). FGCs and FGGCs. I wonder where all these folks are today? Perhaps you might know one or more of them?
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Grateful for the life lived by @AAAjimobi and commisserate with his family & friends at this difficult time In memory of late Senator Ajimobi & every Nigerian life lost to #COVID19 , we reiterate our commitment to stopping this outbreak We need all hands on deck to keep pushing
@AAAjimobi
AJIMOBI FOUNDATION
4 years
It is with a deep sense of appreciation that I commend the FG, @NCDCgov & health workers that have continued to risk their own lives so that we all can be safe. No words will ever be enough to thank you all. Yours is a debt of gratitude that we cannot finish paying in a lifetime.
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Could not be more grateful and proud to lead the committed Team at @NCDCgov who continue to work very hard in service to our country I’m also grateful to all health workers and everyone across the country who is part of our #COVID19 response Happy #WorkersDay
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Finally - we have molecular diagnostic capacity in every state in #Nigeria We celebrate today, tomorrow- we continue pushing. Thanks, teamNCDC! Thanks to the lab team. Thanks to colleagues in the states. Thanks to the private sector. #strongertogether
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
We are pleased to announce the inclusion of the Niger State Public Health Laboratory, Minna to the NCDC Molecular Laboratory Network. In 8 months, we have activated at least one laboratory for #COVID19 testing in all 36 +1 states of #Nigeria . #TakeResponsibility
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Grateful for the solidarity and support from many global leaders, especially from our partner @InstituteGC led by former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair. His Team is helping us shape some of the tough organisational issues in managing a large scale response to a pandemic.
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Quoting my brother @JNkengasong , Director of @AfricaCDC on changing the market for #COVID19 diagnostics "African countries have funds to pay for reagents but can’t buy them. We need solidarity across the world & within the continent to solve this”
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
THANK YOU! All public health professionals in Nigeria who have worked non-stop since the beginning of 2020, to protect the health of Nigerians To all @NCDCgov staff & partners, State Public Health teams, health workers in treatment centres, port health staff & several others
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Update from Nigeria on #COVID19 We have worked very hard to strengthen our systems in preparedness for this outbreak. NCDC will continue to keep Nigerians informed. It is important to focus on #FactsNotFear
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
The Honourable Minister of Health has announced a confirmed coronavirus disease (COVID-19) case in Lagos State The case, which was confirmed on the 27th of February 2020, is the first case to be reported in Nigeria since the beginning of the outbreak in China in January 2020
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
Deeply honoured to be conferred alongside other esteemed colleagues as “Officer of the Order of the Niger” by President @MBuhari - received by my dear wife @VIhekweazu Privileged to accept on behalf of excellent & committed team at @NCDCgov , who give their all to public service
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Always proud of #Nigerian healthcare workers. Despite the challenges, pushing quietly every day. We will not stop #keeppushing .
@LUTHofficial
LUTH
4 years
LUTH delivers fourth (4th) expectant mother (22 year-old) diagnosed with Covid-19 of twins
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today in Kano, I joined the State Government and @AlikoDangoteFdn , at the opening of the State’s new mobile lab for #COVID19 diagnosis, set up with @weare54gene Grateful for our strong collaboration- government & private sector- in this response. Still a lot more to do together
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Grateful for the efforts by health workers at Infectious Disease Hospital Yaba and my colleagues @LSMOH , in managing five cases to recovery. We #keeppushing
@jidesanwoolu
Babajide Sanwo-Olu
4 years
I am excited to announce some positive news ahead of our lockdown. We have just discharged 5 formerly positve #COVID19 patients from our Infectious Disease Hospital after treatment and multiple testing by our specialists. Congratulations to the healthcare team and the patients.
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We’ve had a very busy day that continues Our Rapid Response Team has arrived Lagos and is supporting @LSMOH , National EOC is coordinating response activities, several press interviews granted & our media resources updated Please only share verified and accurate information!
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
PLS Nigerians,we can’t afford to give up! •Avoid large gatherings (esp. indoors) •Wear a face mask •Ensure physical distancing •Wash your hands Been an incredibly tough year. Many have lost friends, colleagues & family to the #COVID19 pandemic. We can’t let down our guards
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
An excellent editorial in @Nature "...Epidemics and pandemics can be prevented if research capacity is boosted for emerging infections between outbreaks, especially disease surveillance in low- and middle-income countries. There is no excuse for failure"
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Yesterday, His Excellency President @MBuhari said “The public health response to COVID-19 is built on our ability to detect, test & admit cases as well as trace all their contacts. While I note some appreciable progress, we can achieve more” A charge for us @NCDCgov & all states
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Yesterday, I had a call with over 100 Team members currently on the field, supporting #COVID19 response in states Till date, we’ve deployed 35 Rapid Response Teams - the largest concurrent deployment in the history of @ncdcgov Thankful for their sacrifice #wekeeppushing
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
In my comments,I emphasised a fact from our data- most cases are in people aged 20-40,while most deaths are in those >50 We do not blame any age-group as #COVID19 affects our lives in different ways We must work together to protect each other,especially our elderly & vulnerable
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 months
Excited about 2024! Release of the book "An Imperfect Storm"- leading @NCDCgov through #COVID19 pandemic Lessons & intrigues of building an institution, resilience & power of collaboration Join @VIhekweazu & I in exploring what's possible, despite adversity! #AnImperfectStorm
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We have been in touch with our colleagues in #Ghana . We share knowledge and expertise in both directions. @OoasWaho and @AfricaCDC have done a great job in enabling regional collaboration. As always, we are #strongertogether . #SolidarityNotStigma
@moigovgh
Ministry of Information
4 years
Ghana confirms 2 cases of COVID-19
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Thank you Mr. President for re-iterating Nigeria’s support to @WHO and the leadership provided by @DrTedros These are difficult times but we must all pull together for posterity
@NGRPresident
Presidency Nigeria
4 years
The Government of Nigeria fully supports @WHO and its Director General @DrTedros . We are grateful for the leadership and guidance the WHO has provided as we respond to this pandemic. With #COVID19 , we are in an existential battle, requiring global solidarity.
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
Despite anxiety about the B.1.1.529 variant, we must let science lead. Huge respect for colleagues in #SouthAfrica who maintained a strong genomic surveillance system to detect variants & share info rapidly with the world. Time for solidarity not unilateral travel bans.
@mvankerkhove
Maria Van Kerkhove
2 years
Following the meeting of the @WHO TAG-VE today, WHO classifies B.1.1.529 as a variant of concern named Omicron. We call for increased surveillance and genetic testing & thank 🇿🇦 for sharing their work in real time. More information can be found here⬇️
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
I am truly honoured to be awarded an honorary doctorate degree by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine @LSTMnews . This one is dedicated to my parents, who enabled the very special opportunity of spending my formative years on the campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
@LSTMnews
LSTM
2 years
#LSTM is proud to confer honorary DSc degrees to WHO's Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu & FCDO's Professor Charlotte Watts
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
I am immensely grateful to @NGRPresident His Excellency @MBuhari for this National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) award. Serving Nigeria as Director General of @NCDCgov was the opportunity of a lifetime My dear wife @VIhekweazu , recieved this on my behalf today in Abuja
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
I wish my dear brother & colleague @ProfAkinAbayomi a speedy recovery Very grateful for your strong leadership of the #COVID19 response in Lagos State We will #keeppushing & urge Nigerians to adhere to all public health and safety measures, so we can control this outbreak
@ProfAkinAbayomi
Prof. Akin Abayomi
4 years
With utmost sense of responsibility, I am obliged to make it known to the general public that I have tested positive to #COVID19 . Consequently, I have proceeded on a 14 days self- isolation and treatment at home.
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
Deeply grateful to my team @NCDCgov Today, colleagues spent Christmas at the Nat. Reference Lab, on the field across states & in our EOCs. We can’t afford to pause the response It has been a long year, but the team’s dedication, is an example of what’s possible #keeppushing
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
5 years
Honoured to be re-appointed to serve our country, as Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control @NCDCgov . Also happy to continue to share this journey with you all, through #NCDCSundayReflections
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Across the world, our nurses are at the centre of #COVID19 response activities, while also providing care for other diseases We are grateful for their compassion & expertise in caring for patients Photo: Lassa fever treatment centre, FMC Owo in 2018 #InternationalNursesDay
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
If you‘re traveling to Nigeria from any country, it’s important you: 1 Take a #COVID19 PCR test & have a negative result before traveling 2 Stay in self-isolation for 7 days on arrival in Nigeria 3 Take another #COVID19 PCR test on Day 7 Let’s work TOGETHER to #ProtectNigeria
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
Nigeria - This is a graph we should all be thinking about - whether we are working on health, education, security, governance, infrastructure etc. It affects everything. Everything.
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Privileged to be part of the Presidential Taskforce on #COVID19 visit to Lagos, to meet with the State leadership & assess progress made @followlasg has shown strong leadership in response to this outbreak. The journey continues Thank you @jidesanwoolu & HCH @ProfAkinAbayomi
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, I was honoured to join an excellent panel moderated by @drsanjaygupta with Dr Tony Fauci, Nicole Lurie, & Susan Weiss as part of @theNAMedicine Meeting So much to learn from each other globally, especially in ensuring that science remains at the heart of #COVID19 response
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
Good news. But do we really need a picture of African children to make this point? It hurts, deeply, everything I see this. 😥
@USAIDMalawi
USAID Malawi
2 years
SWEET NEWS! #Malawi HIV/Aids infection rate down 61 percent, according to the #unaids2022 report. @USAID and @PEPFAR happy to have contributed to this success story. Congratulations @MalawiGovt .
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
A group of young people teamed up and are supporting us in engaging celebrities in the #TakeResponsibility for #COVID19NIGERIA campaign. Grateful for their efforts and the support of everyone tagged here and several others supporting our work. We keep pushing
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
Important moment for Nigeria! 1 year after & with millions of lives affected, we‘re closer to controlling this pandemic Thanks to @PTFCOVID19 ED @drfaisalshuaib Team @NphcdaNG for incredible work Thanks to @WHO @CEPIvaccines @gavi @UNICEF for support via #COVAX #keeppushing
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
Today, Nigeria, Angola, Kenya & Democratic Republic of Congo received #COVID19 vaccine doses through #COVAX This is very important progress for equitable access to vaccines and an important learning opportunity for future outbreaks! THANK YOU @WHO @gavi @CEPIvaccines @UNICEF
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
"The position of @AfricaCDC and ICAN is that direct spraying of humans with chemical disinfectant or exposing them to UV-C in "Disinfection Tunnels" is not recommended. This statement is based on a review of the most recent evidence"
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
I'll be practising this with my household this Satureay morning! You should do the same. @VIhekweazu , pls pull everyone together and do what DG @DrTedros shows in video below!
@WHO
World Health Organization (WHO)
4 years
There are simple things we each must do to protect ourselves from #COVID19 , including 👐 washing with 🧼 & 💦 or alcohol-based rub. WHO is launching the #SafeHands Challenge to promote the power of clean 👐 to fight #coronavirus . Join the challenge & share your 👐 washing video!
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Despite the challenges we face, Nigeria is our country & I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve As we celebrate our Independence Day, we reflect on the journey so far & reaffirm our commitment to build a better Nigeria #HappyIndependenceDay #NIGERIA60RisingTogether
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
In the middle #CoronaOutbreak , in #Nigeria we have managed 95 cases of confirmed #LassaFever cases in the last week- the highest number of confirmed cases in a single week ever. So proud of the committed & competent NCDC team! Supporting state teams across the country.
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
The latest #Lassafever Situation Report for Week 4 has just been published on the NCDC website. Our 5 testing laboratories continue to function at full capacity to ensure shortest turnaround time for lab results See report:
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
2 years
Proud to co-lead ⬇️ for @WHO putting Field Epi Training at centre of workforce devpt for pandemic prep Started my epi career at #EPIET . Trained Fellows as a site supervisor in HPA,supported Fellows @nicd_sa & ensured NFETP sustainability by integrating @NCDCgov Now to give back
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
A lot of work being done by our health workers across the country at this difficult time Thankful for the progress in Ekiti, with leadership from H.E Governor Fayemi, Honourable Commissioner for Health and their Teams
@kfayemi
Kayode Fayemi
4 years
Thanks to our resilient health workers, Ekiti state’s #COVID19 patient has now been discharged. With this, Ekiti State has no coronavirus patient at its isolation center. #COVID19Nigeria
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
When @WHO Director General @DrTedros asked me to join the high-level mission to China for #COVID19 , I saw it as an opportunity to: 1. Contribute the expertise we have grown at @NCDCgov to a global health problem and solutions 2. Learn best practice from colleagues in China
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
“What we need is experts that understand both the disease and support the health leadership with the critical advice required to control #COVID19 This is the level of support the @WHO High Level Mission to China which I was part of, sought to provide” @Chikwe_I
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, I joined the @WHOafro and @wef live media briefing with @MoetiTshidi and @DrSaniAliyu on the regional response to #COVID19 in #Africa It was also an opportunity to share our progress, priorities & challenges on #COVID19 in #Nigeria #WeKeepPushing
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Update!
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
#COVID19Nigeria The laboratory result of the patient in Enugu suspected to have #COVID19 is NEGATIVE It is important to wait for confirmation from NCDC before spreading information on social media. NCDC will continue to provide updates to the public
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Thank you @DrTedros for recognising the collaborative efforts of Nigeria - @ProfAkinAbayomi of @LSMOH , @LawalSalako of @nimrnigeria , Prof Omilabu of @LUTHofficial , @christian_happi of @acegid_lab and our #NCDCTeam . Still long journey ahead....
@DrTedros
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
4 years
Thank you @NCDCgov & the Government of #Nigeria for the swift & transparent way you have shared the #COVID19 sequence from the country's first case. This a true act of solidarity and an important step in stopping the #coronavirus from spreading further.
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
5 years
An incredible honour to meet His Excellency the Vice President today, along with members of the #NCDCTeam Grateful for his recognition of the work we do and his commitment to support our efforts.
@ProfOsinbajo
Prof. Yemi Osinbajo
5 years
This evening, I met with a delegation from The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control @NCDCgov led by The Director General Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu ( @chikwe_i ).
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
We have now reported over 100,000 confirmed #COVID19 cases in Nigeria This is a stark reminder of the reality we live in now - a virus that has affected over 100,000 lives and led to over 1,300 deaths within 11 months in Nigeria...with millions more globally {Thread}
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
1 year
We are proud to announce the official launch of the International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) by @WHO & partners at #WHA76 This represents a significant milestone, as we unite countries & experts to strengthen disease surveillance, response & prevention #IPSNLaunch
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Proud that @NCDCgov National Reference Laboratory in Abuja has been selected as one of 12 laboratories in Africa that will provide genomic sequencing capacity for #COVID19 Thank you for your leadership @MoetiTshidi @JNkengasong #StrongerTogether
@WHOAFRO
WHO African Region
4 years
#COVID19 genome sequencing laboratory network launches in #Africa 🌍 With several African countries now expanding COVID-19 testing, @WHO & @AfricaCDC have launched a network of laboratories to reinforce genome sequencing of the virus on the continent. 👉🏿
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
In Kano yesterday, I met with His Excellency @GovUmarGanduje , to discuss the state’s response to increase in #COVID19 cases. We’re committed to working together as we detect, isolate, treat and trace contacts. #keeppushing #Kano
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
The increasing number of #COVID19 cases globally is an important reminder that we still remain at risk. No country is safe until every country is safe Please wear a mask, stay 2 metres away from the next person and wash your hands frequently with soap & water🚰🧼 #MaskUpNigeria
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Honoured to be part of @PTFCOVID19 briefing to @HouseNGR on current response activities,challenges & future strategies Grateful for the support from the legislative arm of our Government,as we rapidly scale up capacity for an effective response & protect the health of Nigerians
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
While preparing for #Covid_19 , we are dealing with the largest #Lassafever outbreak ever in #Nigeria . Close to 600 confirmed cases in first 7 weeks of the year. We #keeppushing , but we need the support of all #Nigerians . We cant do this on our own.
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
In response to the ongoing #Lassafever outbreak, risk communication & community engagement activities have been scaled up across states using mass media, social media & other strategies Read the latest Situation Report for week 07 for more
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, I joined the Presidential Task Force led by @OfficialOSGFNG , and Honourable Minister of Health @DrEOEhanire to provide an update to President @MBuhari We remain grateful for the strong political leadership that enables our response to #COVID19 📸: @BayoOmoboriowo
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
3 years
In countries with a federal structure like Nigeria, responsibility for outbreak response is spread across government levels A lot of our #COVID19 response is driven by extremely hardworking and committed State Public Health Teams, who have been working non-stop for 12 months now
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
In this new commentary in @BMCMedicine , @agogo_immanuel & I write about Africa’s response to #COVID19 , highlighting how countries including Nigeria are leveraging on existing resources & innovation, making the best of what we have. @NCDCgov @AfricaCDC
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Good work by our colleagues in #Gombe . There are many exceptional colleagues, quietly pushing to make or country work. #Thankyou #keeppushing
@GombePHEOC
Gombe PHEOC
4 years
Health and education are a priority in Gombe State.A final year student of GSSS Gombe tested POSITIVE for COVID-19 and was isolated yesterday,today he is writing Mathematics SSCE while ensuring his invigilator is well protected. @NCDCgov @Chikwe_I @Amanafm98_1 @t_taskforce
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Love it when we are green on a map!
@WHOAFRO
WHO African Region
4 years
The number of countries in the African Region able to test for #COVID19 has increased from 2 to 24 in past 2 weeks. An additional 18 are expected to soon have capacity. @WHO & partners continue to support member states in surveillance & preparedness.
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
One of the most important missions I‘ve had the honour to be part of is @WHO -China Mission on #COVID19 Lessons from working with some of the most hardworking experts in China, @WHO & other countries will guide us as Nigeria responds to 1st #COVID19 case
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, I joined HMH @DrEOEhanire in briefing all State Governors at the National Executive Council meeting chaired by @ProfOsinbajo , on #COVID19Nigeria We’re working with our Governors to ensure State level ownership & funding of urgent interventions for the response to #COVID19
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Congratulations to our country on this milestone with leadership of Mr President @MBuhari , current & past Hon. Ministers of Health @DrEOEhanire @DrAOMamora ; @IsaacFAdewole , @muhammadpate , Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu, my brother @drfaisalshuaib & the Team @NphcdaNG #PolioFreeNigeria
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We also remember Justina Ejelonu, Evelyn Uko and Amos Abaniwo- who died in the line of duty & made one of the biggest sacrifices for #Nigeria Their work continues to inspire us as we build a stong IPC strategy in Nigeria so that health workers do not die while saving lives
@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, we remember Dr. Stella Ameyo Adadevoh for her bravery & leadership during Nigeria’s 2014 #Ebola outbreak I’m very proud of @drasatrust ’s work especially in training health workers to protect themselves against infectious diseases We’ll never forget 📷 @drasatrust
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
For everyone who wants to know what we were up to and why this mission is so important for global health, please read the report published by @WHO
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Today, we honoured an invitation by the Public Accounts Committee of @HouseNGR This was to give a detailed breakdown of how the funding @NCDCgov received from @NigeriaGov for #COVID19 is being utilised for the public health response in #Nigeria
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Important milestone for our country today, with the official handover of the Infectious Disease Care Centre that we started in 2019 Very grateful to the Hon. Ministers @Fmohnigeria , & especially @IsaacFAdewole who provided the initial approval & support to kickstart this project
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
The last 4 days have been busier than normal for us at @NCDCgov We‘ve been responding to our 1st #COVID19 case, & associated panic. One thing we’re grateful for, is that the structures we built in the last 4 years have enabled our response in last 4 days #NCDCSundayReflections
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Going to China during a large outbreak was not an easy decision to make. But it is what we do. In Nigeria, nearly every week, I approve the deployment of Teams to investigate and respond to outbreaks. When our expertise is needed at the global level, we will contribute to this.
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Grateful for the strong collaboration that enables Nigeria contribute to science on #COVID19 Thankful to @ProfAkinAbayomi of @LSMOH , Prof. Salako of @nimrnigeria , Prof Omilabu of @LUTHofficial , @christian_happi of @acegid_lab , @DhamariNaidoo of @WHO & their Teams, and #NCDCTeam
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
Nigeria has published the first African SARS-CoV-2 genome sequence, from the #COVID19 case in Nigeria This was carried out in collaboration, by: @nimrnigeria @acegid_lab @LUTHofficial With coordination by: @LSMOH @NCDCgov @WHONigeria
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Proud of the work done by our biomedical engineers and lab scientists, who are constantly on the road to support more states, in activating their laboratories for #COVID19 diagnosis. One day, we will tell their stories....but for now, we #keeppushing
@NCDCgov
NCDC
4 years
We are pleased to announce the inclusion of the 26th lab to the national #COVID19 Laboratory Network: Accunalysis Diagnostic Centre, Anambra In progress: Katsina, Kwara & Gombe Read our FAQs on #COVID19 Diagnostics #TakeResponsibility
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Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Nearly six months into Nigeria’s #COVID19 response, I reflect on how this pandemic has changed our lives at @NCDCgov , lessons we have learned and why we need to be better prepared for the next pandemic. In today’s @THISDAYLIVE -
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
We’re working hard to ensure travel into & out of Nigeria is a seamless process for all, while prioritising public health & safety See updated FAQs, including review of the time required to carry out a #COVID19 test before traveling from 96 hrs to 120 hrs
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
Deeply proud of my brother,friend & colleague @ProfIAbubakar , who has been chosen as one of 50 Fellows in the prestigious Academy of Medical Sciences His contribution to our work at @NCDCgov has been incredibly helpful, including opportunities for staff
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@Chikwe_I
Chikwe Ihekweazu
4 years
The target is to test 2000 samples in Lagos, 1000 in Abuja and in the rest of the country daily, of the RIGHT people who meet the case definition. We’re expanding our labs, have provided states with sample collection kits and developing innovative methods to ensure testing
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