Posts

Importance of Friday

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 ASSALAMU ALAYKUM WARAHMATULLAHI WABARAKATUH  Why Is Friday Important   Praise be to ALlāh. ALlāh, may He be glorified and exalted, chose Friday to be the best of days before Him, and He singled it out for major events and great qualities, which are the reason why Muslims are obliged to venerate this day and take it as one of their ‘Eids or festivals in which ALlāh has prescribed rituals that He has not prescribed for other days.  Moreover, Jum`ah prayer has a particular virtue and great qualities through the barakah (blessing) of this great day. Ibn al-Qayyim (may ALlāh have mercy on him) said:  “Jum`ah prayer is singled out from among all the other obligatory prayers for having particular characteristics that are not found in other prayers, including the fact that it is offered in congregation, has a minimum number of worshippers required in order for it to be valid, the iqamah is a condition of its being valid, one must not be travelling in order for it to be...

Revitalizing Primary Healthcare: A Strategic Call to Empower Community Health Practitioners in Nigeria

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  We've written on the roles, significance and contributions of Community Health and Community Health Practitioners in our lives and national development. We identified different challenges faced by this professionals in discharging their duties. We believe that the Federal/State Governments through their appropriate ministries and agencies, as well as the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board Of Nigeria, the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, and the Association Of Community Health Practitioners of Nigeria can better the situation by carrying out the underlisted actions; The Government should invest in Healthcare Infrastructure through the allocation of resources to improve healthcare infrastructure in our communities, including upgrading healthcare facilities, ensuring a consistent supply of essential medical equipment and medications, and enhancing access to clean water and sanitation facilities. The Community Health Practitioners Registration Board Of N...

Fraud: A Reason for Societal Moral Decay

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   The rate of internet fraud in our society is so high you're the only odd person for not being a sc*mmer. 7to8 of every group of 10 boys between the age of 14to27 is/was/has been/ will be a 'fraudst*r. This is even worse in most average homes and not so well to do homes. It used to be the story after series of unsuccessful trials in life, but now, 'it is the way' (so they said). I think this is great intelligence being channelled towards the wrong direction. We were told we'll one day be the leaders of tomorrow, even though tomorrow never ends, are we really ready to captain the ship of 'tomorrow'? When the funds drop, the expenditure becomes extremely extravagant, the value of respect becomes dependent on the weight of your purse. Values and ethics thinned till it's almost non existent in our societies.  No worries, it's all good as boys have reduced cultism related violence. However, same boys are k*lling, butcher*ng, in the name of sacrifice. Th...

Time: The Distance Between One's Dream and Reality

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As young children, we grew up with dreams. We wanted to be lawyers, he aspired to become a doctor, her dream was to become a nurse. Some of us loved the conducts of the banking system and wished we'd become professionals in it's various fields. They have always dreamt of being engineers ever since the 6 kilometers bridge in our town was constructed. I can go on and on to name our dreams as children. When asked, we'd say we want to be lawyers to defend the oppressed, doctors to better the health of our people, bankers, engineers to better the welfare of our community. It was all beautiful and glossy until puberty. Some of us came to the reality that it was nothing but what we called it 'a dream'. We've been sleeping all through and dreaming. Now we wake to face the reality. A lot of us attended the 'typical average Nigerian kind of secondary school' (usually not too expensive) but syllabus for a subject is hardly covered in a term, and the carryover topi...

Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Community Health Initiatives for Sustainable Development in Nigeria

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  After our previous article on the topic: Advancing Community Health in Nigeria; Bridging Research Gaps for Sustainable Development, Read it here ;https://ahmedsalim17.blogspot.com/2025/06/advancing-community-health-in-nigeria.html, we received few messages to discuss valuable insights into the roles, challenges, and potential interventions related to community health practitioners in our local communities and their impact on public health promotion and national development. These points are crucial for understanding the current state of community health initiatives and formulating strategies for improvement. Firstly, the contributions of Community Health Practitioners to public health promotion are significantly undeniable. This stand of ours, affirms the established notion that Community Health Practitioners play a vital role in delivering primary healthcare services, health education, and disease prevention within local communities, and they recognize the efforts of these he...

Advancing Community Health in Nigeria: Bridging Research Gaps for Sustainable Development

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  The Community Health Profession is significantly advancing in quality of training and skills. There's also a marked advancement in the professional and academic qualifications. There has been a continuous positive evolution in the program; from the days of Rural Aids, Community Health Assistants, Community Health Supervisors etc, now to the proposed ND/HND in community health Sciences(We'll talk more on this in a future article). With the commencement of the Bachelor of Community Health Science (BCHS) in our Universities, it is only natural that in a few decade, we should have Masters and PhD holders in this profession. A time will come we shall also have Professors who majors in different fields of the Community Health Science.  We are improving, no doubts, but there asr  some issues that needs attention, we mentioned a few in our previous articles Read : https://ahmedsalim17.blogspot.com/2025/05/challenges-faced-by-community-health.html However, studies on community h...

Islam is Universal

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  Islam is not limited to a certain geography or a certain time. It is a Belief system whose rule is valid at all times and places until the Day of Judgment. It is Believed that all the prophets that came before Muhammad (PBUH) are Muslims (People who submitted their will to God's will) and that they the (other prophets) were sent to certain nations and for a certain time(s). While Muhammad (PBUH), who is a mercy to all the worlds, was sent to all of mankind and jinn. The Qur’an which is the greatest miracle of The Prophet (PBUH), is valid until the end of time.  ® Ahmed Salim Jn ✍️

The Days of Tashriq

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  ASSALAMU ALAYKUM WARAHMATULLAHI WABARAKATUH  Praise be to ALlāh, and blessings and peace be upon the Messenger of ALlāh. Virtues of the Days of Tashriq The days of Tashriq are the 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah . There are several verses and ahadith which speak of their virtue:  1 – ALlāh says (interpretation of the meaning):  “And remember ALlāh during the appointed Days.” [Al-Baqarah 2:203] These are the days of Tashriq. This was the view of Ibn ‘Umar and most of the scholars.  2 – The Prophet (peace and blessings of ALlāh be upon him) said concerning the days of Tashriq: “They are days of eating, drinking and remembering ALlāh.”  The Prophet (peace and blessings of ALlāh be upon him) forbade fasting on these days :  “Do not fast on these days, for they are the days of eating, drinking and remembering ALlāh.” Narrated by Ahmad, 10286; classed as sahih by al-Albani in al-Silsilah al-Sahihah, 3573. Dhikr during the days of Tashriq Dhikr (remember...

Strengthening Community Health Systems in Rural Nigeria: Evaluating the Roles, Challenges, and Impacts of Community-Based Public Health Interventions.

Community health practitioners are the backbone of primary healthcare in rural Nigeria, yet they face persistent challenges that hinder their effectiveness. To strengthen health systems and improve outcomes, we must examine their experiences, assess public health strategies, and evaluate the impact of community-based interventions. This approach is vital to achieving national health targets and fostering sustainable development across underserved communities. Several empirical studies have examined the roles and challenges faced by community health practitioners in Nigeria, particularly in our rural communities. We need to start conducting comprehensive reviews of the experiences of community health practitioners in various communities, highlight common challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate training, and cultural barriers.  In 2023, The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA's) review of immunization coverage in Nigeria provided insights into the effec...

Social Determinants of Health

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The social determinants of health (SDH) are conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, which influence health outcomes and disparities. Understanding and addressing these determinants are crucial for promoting health equity and reducing health inequalities. Community health practitioners recognize the impact of SDH on health and work to address underlying social factors that contribute to disparities. One of the key social determinants of health is socioeconomic status, including income, education, and employment opportunities. Lower socioeconomic status is associated with higher rates of chronic diseases, limited access to healthcare, and poorer health outcomes. Community health practitioners implement interventions such as health education, income support programs, and job training to mitigate these disparities. Social and environmental factors such as housing conditions, neighborhood safety, and access to healthy food also influence health outcomes. Community he...

Community Engagement in Public Health Promotion

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  Community engagement is a critical aspect of public health promotion and healthcare delivery, with significant importance for community health practitioners. Engaging communities in healthcare initiatives fosters trust, promotes empowerment, and enhances the effectiveness of health interventions. Community health practitioners play a key role in facilitating meaningful engagement, which leads to positive health outcomes and improved community well-being. The importance of community engagement lies in its ability to mobilize resources, leverage local knowledge, and tailor interventions to community needs. Engaged communities are more likely to participate in health programs, adopt healthy behaviors, and sustain health-promoting activities beyond the intervention period. This active involvement strengthens the resilience of communities and contributes to long-term health improvements. Strategies for community engagement include participatory approaches, community-based participator...

Cultural Competence in Healthcare: Understanding Religious and Cultural Influences

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Cultural and religious influences profoundly shape healthcare practices, beliefs, and access, requiring community health practitioners to adopt culturally sensitive approaches effectively. Cultural and religious influences play a significant role in shaping healthcare practices and beliefs within communities, impacting the work of community health practitioners. Cultural norms, traditions, and beliefs often influence health-seeking behaviors, treatment preferences, and perceptions of illness. Community health practitioners must navigate these influences sensitively to ensure culturally competent and effective healthcare delivery. Cultural and religious beliefs may affect attitudes towards healthcare providers, treatment adherence, and decision-making processes related to health. For example, certain communities may prefer traditional healing methods or seek guidance from spiritual leaders alongside medical treatments. Understanding these beliefs and practices is essential for building ...

Community -Based Healthcare Delivery: Challenges And Opportunities.

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  Delivering healthcare in local communities require a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that come with serving diverse populations. From navigating infrastructure constraints to leveraging community engagement, healthcare practitioners must adapt their approaches to meet the specific needs of each community. I write to explore the complexities of healthcare delivery in local settings, highlighting the importance of tailored interventions, community partnerships, and innovative solutions. Healthcare delivery in local communities presents unique considerations and opportunities for community health practitioners . One of the key considerations is the diverse healthcare needs and challenges specific to each community, influenced by factors such as population demographics, geographic location, and socioeconomic status. Understanding these unique considerations is essential for tailoring healthcare interventions and strategies to meet the specific needs of t...

A Tribute To Parental Sacrifice

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I fed you when you were a newborn, And sponsored you when you were a youth, And you enjoyed what I harvested for you, If you fell sick one night,  I would not sleep but,  I keep awake all nights,  feeling sorry for you  As if I were the sick not you,  so my eyes get flooded with tears ®Ahmed Salim Jn ✍️

Parental Feelings Towards Children: An Islamic Perspective

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The bond between parents and children is one of the most profound and enduring relationships in human experience. It is a connection that transcends cultures, time, and circumstance, rooted in a deep - seated love and devotion that shapes the very fabric of our existence. From the moment a child is born parents are filled with an overwhelming sense of responsibility, protection, and care, driven by an instinctual desire to nurture and guide their little ones through life's Joys and challenges. It is intuitively known that the parent's hearts are disposed to love children, and are filled with psychological feelings and parental compassion for protecting, having mercy, sympathizing, and caring for them. But for that, the human race would have vanished, and the parents would not have had patience for looking after their children, sponsoring them, bringing them up, caring for them or seeking their interests. The Glorious Qur'an has depicted these parental feelings, so, sometime...

Challenges Faced by Community Health Practitioners

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Community health practitioners face various challenges in fulfilling their roles effectively, including resource constraints and training needs. One of the primary challenges is the lack of adequate funding and resources for healthcare facilities in many communities. Limited budgets result in shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and infrastructure, hindering the delivery of quality healthcare services. Additionally, community health practitioners often work in understaffed healthcare settings, leading to increased workloads and reduced capacity to meet community needs. The shortage of trained healthcare personnel, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, further exacerbates the challenges faced by community health practitioners. Addressing these human resource gaps is crucial for improving healthcare delivery in communities. Moreover, community health practitioners require continuous training and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and...

A Step in the Right Direction : Acknowledging Airtel's Response to JAMB Score Service Glitch

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Yesterday, many Nigerians who rely on Airtel's network services experienced frustration when trying to check their JAMB scores. The glitch resulted in multiple charges for the service, leaving many feeling disheartened. However, in a remarkable display of accountability and customer-centricity, Airtel apologized and promptly refunded the excess charges. This swift response is a testament to Airtel's commitment to its customers and sets a shining example for other service providers to follow. In an era where customer trust is paramount, Airtel's actions demonstrate that the company values its users' loyalty and is dedicated to making things right when mistakes occur. Airtel's apology and refund serve as a reminder that transparency and accountability are essential in building trust between service providers and their customers. When companies take ownership of their mistakes and work to rectify them, it fosters a sense of reliability and confidence among users. As we...

Community Health Practitioners:Key drivers of National Development

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The pursuit of national development is inextricably linked to the health and well-being of its citizens. A strong health sector is essential for achieving economic growth, social progress, and human development. The health sector plays a crucial role in national development by contributing to improved health outcomes and overall well-being. One of the key contributions of the health sector is the promotion of a healthy population, which is essential for economic productivity and social development. Community health practitioners are integral to this process, as they work to prevent diseases, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide essential healthcare services. Additionally, the health sector contributes to human capital development, which is vital for sustainable national growth. By investing in healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare professionals, and implementing public health programs, countries can enhance their human resources for health. Community health practitioners pl...

Marriage Is a Selection And Choice:04

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We thank Allah for the journey through our themed series.  Among the instructions of Islam for selecting a wife is to be prolific, to achieve the purpose of marriage, i.e having children, preserving the human race, and inhabiting the universe. One of the women's (merits) is to bear children, and that is why the prophet (PBUH) preferred Khadijah (Allah Be Pleased with her) to his other wives. So, he mentioned that 'she gave him children while others did not' as inter alia- a privilege of hers. The prophet (PBUH) admonished not to marry barren women however beautiful they might be they might be. Abu Dawud, and An Nasai related that Maqil ibn Yasar said that a man came to the prophet (PBUH) and said to him 'I loved a well -bred and beautiful woman, but she is barren. Shall I marry her? The prophet said (No). The man came a second time and the prophet said (No). When he came the third time, the prophet said to him; marry the nice and prolific woman, as I shall take pride i...

Community Health Practitioners and Public Health Promotion

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Public health promotion encompasses various strategies and interventions aimed at improving the health outcomes of populations. One of the key strategies employed is health education, which involves providing information and raising awareness about health-related topics such as disease prevention and healthy lifestyles. Community health practitioners play a vital role in health education initiatives, delivering targeted messages and interventions to promote positive health behaviors among individuals and communities. In addition to health education, public health promotion includes advocacy for policies and programs that support population health. Community health practitioners advocate for initiatives such as tobacco control, vaccination programs, and nutrition policies that have a significant impact on public health outcomes. By engaging in advocacy efforts, these practitioners contribute to shaping environments that promote health and prevent diseases. Another important aspect of pu...