NEWS
The Disconnect between Matter, Energy and Chronic Disease Management
By Mukaila Kareem
I was recently in Canada for the annual conference of the International Association of Nigerian Physical Therapists living in North America. I am certain I will have a lot of explanations to make by the time my relatives who live in Calgary find out that I was in their hometown without stopping by.
My itinerary was to arrive at 12 p. m. local time and make a brief surprise visit to my relatives before the welcome and informal gathering of the association members in the evening. However, it turned out that my second flight was canceled and I had to stay overnight in Atlanta due to computer glitches that affected the airlines that weekend.I missed the scientific session on Friday and barely met the dinner gathering in the night. You may be wondering what this has got to do with metabolic energy and chronic disease management but bear with me, as the one hour fourteen minutes bus ride for the planned picnic from Calgary to Drumheller, the dinosaur capital of the world, inspired the writing of this article.
Suffice it to note that I have been to Calgary before but never ventured into the countryside and, as with all places, experiences inside the big cities never represent the real-life experiences of most people. The landscape from Calgary to Drumheller is no different from driving anywhere in the flat plains of Midwest United States, but instead of corn and soybean fields, there are wheat and beautiful yellowish canola plantations. My biggest shock was the oil fields that occasionally dotted the canola and wheat plantations. There are unmanned pulley systems, called jack pumps, drilling oil in real time on the farms! Alberta’s so-called oil sand was formed from the decomposition of plants and marine life about 200 million years ago, when the western part of Canada was believed to be mostly underwater.
This experience made me wonder why petroleum engineers do not engage in debates about kerosene, gasoline, diesel, or engine oil. These are constituents of petroleum or “crude oil” and each of them has different lengths of carbon chains attached to hydrogen atoms. They are combustible under various conditions, but these conditions are basic facts in all engineering fields, perhaps because the core training of engineering is about different kinds of energy masked in complex mathematical formulae (I hate math!). For example, you can drive your car at 70 miles per hour on a full or half tank and the purpose of keeping your car in motion remains the same until you run out of gas.
This is not how metabolism works: How the body processes your pizza, or my favourite West African pounded yam, is different when we are hungry than when we are full. In other words, the flow of energy when foods are broken down could be linear, circular or bifurcated for the purpose of building, burning or both. While the engineers are taught to follow the energy flow in a closed system, the modern health practice seems to be chasing the shadow by focusing on the nature of macronutrients that can be distilled to the confusing high fat, low carb and low carb, high fat diets.
Be it engineering or medicine, there is a world of difference between matter, a tangible substance that occupies space and energy, a property that does not have mass or volume. However, while energy cannot be separated from my favourite West African pounded yam or the gasoline, matter has been described as “a frozen light.” Energy has also been described as “not itself stuff (but) something that all stuff has.” As it turns out, photosynthesis is the primary storage that provides the energy that powers life. It initially stores intangible photons or sunlight energy in transient energy carrying molecules called ATP and NADPH, in what is often called light reaction.
How then do plants handle useful excess energy? As a son of an African farmer, I am familiar with making barns to store harvested corn or yams. In the same vein, the plants trap atmospheric carbon dioxide as the storage molecule, in what is called carbon fixation, but no different from making barns or my mom buying a bunch of baskets to store her kola nuts before selling them off-season, when the glut is over. A plant enzyme called Rubisco hitches a molecule of atmospheric carbon dioxide molecule on a 5-carbon compound to make two molecules of 3-carbon sugar.
This sugar can be regarded as my mom’s kola nut “basket,” which is initially energised by ATP and then embedded with the sun derived high energy photosynthetic electrons from the transient NADPH, to form the basic nutrient called glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate. This simple sugar is the prime end-product of photosynthesis and can be metabolised as an immediate food nutrient by both plants and animals. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate is therefore the energy-rich simple sugar that connects photosynthesis with metabolism.
Beyond being the first nutrient compound, plants can combine and rearrange glyceraldehyde 3 phosphate to form simple sugars (glucose, fructose and galactose), starch (tubers and grains) and structural elements, such as cellulose found in trees and woods. Furthermore, the plants use this sugar as the building block to synthesise amino acids, proteins and fats. In other words, fats and proteins are offshoots of sugar! In physics, macronutrients are regarded as matter with “frozen light” or stored energy. During combustion, the energy in gasoline is used to produce motion in your car, while giving off water vapour and carbon dioxide.
In metabolism, glucose, a six-carbon molecule, is slowly and systematically broken down into two 3-carbon pyruvate molecules. Interestingly, breaking down pyruvate involves stripping off 3 carbon dioxide molecules, called decarboxylation, while harvesting the high energy hydrogen electrons to produce NADH. To prevent from blowing us apart, the hydrogen electrons are delicately guided to combine with oxygen to form water (H2O) and release the energy currency of all cells called ATP.
Here comes the big disconnect. In clinical settings, the regimen of controlling blood sugar with medications or insulin shots primarily converts glucose to fat synthesis, which in the context of more substrates secondarily leads to the formation of cholesterol. In other words, a 6-carbon glucose, a simple sugar, is transformed to at least 16-carbon palmitic acid (fat) and then to a more complex 27-carbon cholesterol compound. These are all anabolic pathways that build more matter and do not break the bond energy to form water and carbon dioxide. Sadly, unlike a typical engineer, a modern healthcare practitioner does not address energy flow within the context of metabolic syndrome.
I have seen this movie for more than 30 years where patients with diabetes on the so-called hypoglycemic agents end up with increased weight gain and high levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood, otherwise called hyperlipidemia. This is why most patients on the so-called intensive glucose control end up taking not just medications for lowering blood glucose but also cholesterol medications, a case of creating more problems and then taking credit for seeming to solve them.
I had the opportunity to jaw-jaw about this unfortunate polypharmacy and chronic disease management with a new friend during the conference’s African Night’s Owambe party, the Nigerian style. I was led to the table where my mentor and teacher, Professor Balogun, was also seated. There were two gentlemen I did not recognise but I casually introduce myself by first name to the gentleman closer to me, but Professor Balogun did a more formal introduction over the loud Naija songs in the background. Lo and behold, Ema Gye is a University of Jos trained medical doctor who practices lifestyle medicine in Calgary and with that we talked like we’ve known each other forever.
It was another great gathering of Nigerian Physiotherapists living in the USA and Canada. Thank you, Prof. E. B. John and your exco team, and immense thanks to the local organising committee led by Mr Tunji Bello and Mrs Adejumo. I missed the scientific session, but the picnic to Drumheller, Alberta was like a scientific session on the road and I truly had a blast.
Kareem, a doctor of physiotherapy, writes from the USA and can be reached via makkareem5@gmail.com
By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
Two hundred and fifty (250) women from Panda/Kare Electoral Ward in Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, have benefited from ₦2.5 million small-scale empowerment programme organised by Hon.
Bawa Rabo, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on KAPDA to Governor Abdullahi Sule.Each beneficiary received ₦10,000 as part of the initiative designed to strengthen women’s economic independence, support small-scale businesses, and promote sustainable grassroots development across the community.
The programme, held in Panda, brought together beneficiaries from various communities within the ward, aimed at improving household welfare through income-generating activities and business expansion.
The event attracted a wide range of political leaders, community stakeholders, traditional rulers, and supporters from across Nasarawa State, reflecting the significance of women-focused development initiatives in the region.
Among those present were Hon. Daniel Ogah Ogazi, Dr. Abraham Habu Ekpo, Hon. Christopher Bako Madaki, Chief. Bitrus Asawu, Hon. Moses Egbe, Hon. Samson Mutari, Hajiya. Hauwa Isyaku, and several other notable dignitaries.
Their attendance also demonstrated unity among stakeholders working towards strengthening grassroots communities through targeted interventions and collaborative governance.
Speaking during the event, Hon. Daniel Ogah Ogazi, representing Kokona West in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly and APC candidate for the Kokona, Keffi, and Karu Federal Constituency, commended Hon. Bawa Rabo for his consistent commitment to grassroots empowerment.
He described the initiative as a clear demonstration of responsible leadership and urged other public office holders to emulate similar interventions that directly improve citizens’ livelihoods.
According to him, leadership must go beyond policy formulation to practical actions that positively impact the people.
He further stated that supporting vulnerable groups remains both a moral obligation and a civic responsibility of those in public service.
“Giving is a responsibility and an act of charity following an exemplary life of God when you have,” he said.
He urged notable figures in the society to remain generous and supportive of their communities, and also called on the gatherers to support and vote APC in the forthcoming general election.
As part of his contribution, Hon. Ogazi donated ₦500,000 to assist with transportation logistics for beneficiaries and announced plans for his empowerment phase targeting over 500 women across Karu LGA.
In his remarks, Hon. Bawa Rabo expressed appreciation to Governor Abdullahi Sule and the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their continued trust and support.
He affirmed his dedication to grassroots development, particularly through initiatives aimed at uplifting women and strengthening small-scale enterprises.
According to him, empowering women remains one of the most effective ways to build stronger families and more stable communities.
He encouraged the beneficiaries to invest wisely in their businesses, stressing the importance of sustainability and financial discipline in achieving long-term economic growth.
He noted that empowerment programmes under his leadership form part of a broader and continuous strategy to improve livelihoods across Karu LGA and beyond.
Also speaking, the Speaker of the Karu Legislative Council, Hon. Christopher Bako Madaki, commended Hon. Bawa Rabo for the empowerment initiative, describing it as the first of its kind in Panda/Kare Electoral Ward. He noted that the programme would have a significant impact on beneficiaries and further strengthen community development across the area.
Similarly, the Special Adviser on Mining to the Karu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Moses Egbe, praised Hon. Bawa Rabo for the thoughtful gesture.
He described the empowerment programme as a blessing to the beneficiaries and the entire ward, noting that it would contribute to economic growth, progress, and improved living standards across the community.
In her address, the Karu LGA APC Women Leader, Hajiya. Hauwa Isyaku, urged the beneficiaries and residents to continue supporting the APC-led administration in order to attract more development projects to the area.
She emphasised that unity and consistent political support are key to sustaining empowerment initiatives and development programmes at the grassroots level.
“Grassroots development remains our shared responsibility” she said.
She also commended Hon. Bawa Rabo for his commitment to women’s welfare, describing his interventions as impactful and worthy of encouragement.
The women who benefited from the support expressed heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Bawa Rabo for the kind intervention, describing it as timely and impactful.
“The support had given us renewed hope and motivation to pursue economic independence” they said.
By Attah Ede, Makurdi
The Deputy Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria CAN Benue State Chapter, Rev. Jonathan Terwase Ugbede has called on the people of the state to intensify support for the less privilege and the vulnerable in the society.
Speaking at the CAN Secretariat in Makurdi, during the presentation of award on him by Pan African Integrity Initiative Centre Abuja, the Deputy CAN Chairman noted that the vulnerable in the society needs the support and care for them to live more useful lives capable of benefitting other people.
Rev.
Ugbede informed that what he was able to do and the support he has extended to people particularly the vulnerable was as a result of the firm support he was enjoying from the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Iormem Alia.The State CAN Deputy Chairman disclosed that the Church in the state has continued to enjoy good working relationship with the state governor, insisting that Governor Alia has never turned down any request by CAN.
Ugbede who called on the Christian community in the state to intensify support particularly in prayers to enable the Governor achieve more for the people, expressed confidence that with relentless prayers Governor Alia would definitely attract more development to Benue State.
He expressed appreciation to the Christian community in the state for standing by him to develop the Church and also appreciated Pan African Integrity Initiative Centre Abuja for finding him worthy of the honour, saying he did not know that people were watching him and that he did not lobby for the honour even as he was not aware of the award.
The National Coordinator of the Center, Chief Amb. Sonny Goli who was represented by Timothy Msugh Atoza while presenting the award, said the Rev. Ugbede has
“consistently supported and facilitated the settlement of expensive hospital bills for men of God and underprivileged citizens, going as far as seeking the direct intervention of the Executive Governor of Benue State whenever necessary.
“You have taken the Gospel beyond church walls by visiting IDP camps, identifying with the displaced, and bringing them hope. Beyond that, you have initiated and driven important projects aimed at the growth and development of the Christian body in this state. In a time when many chase recognition, you have chosen responsibility. When others speak from a distance, you draw near. That, Reverend, is the very essence of missionary integrity.”
In their separate comments the Assistant Secretary of CAN in the state, Apostle General Mike Nkiri, the WOWICAN Chairperson, Lady Cecilia Member Amishiave, Bishop Joseph Atimga Vice Chairman Christian Council of Nigeria, the YOWICAN Chairman Rev. Barr. Bobby Tavershima among others appreciated the centre for the honour as it was well deserved adding that the Deputy Chairman would continue to attract more honours given what he has been doing in the Church
By Raphael Atuu ,Abuja
The Federal Government has saved approximately ₦61.58 billion (US$43.99 million) and secured fertiliser supplies for the 2026 wet season through an early procurement strategy that shielded Nigeria from the impact of fresh global disruptions affecting fertiliser markets worldwide.
While several countries across Africa face fertiliser shortages and rising input costs triggered by escalating tensions along key global shipping routes, Nigeria moved ahead of market pressures by locking in supplies and prices months before the current volatility.
The proactive intervention has ensured steady availability of fertiliser raw materials for local production and reduced the risk of price shocks for Nigerian farmers ahead of the planting season.
grapple with fertiliser shortages and rising input costs triggered by fresh global disruptions, Nigeria has secured its fertiliser supply for the 2026 wet season, following early procurement decisions that have also saved the country over $42 million.
The latest disruptions, linked to escalating tensions affecting critical global shipping routes, have pushed up freight costs and driven increases in the prices of key fertiliser inputs, including Granular Ammonium Sulphate (GAS), Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), and Muriate of Potash (MOP). Across multiple markets, supply gaps are emerging, leaving farmers uncertain about availability and pricing ahead of the planting season.
Nigeria, however, has moved ahead of the curve.
PFI NPK Limited, the wholly owned entity of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and implementation vehicle for the Presidential Fertiliser Initiative, confirmed that it secured its 2026 supply position months before the current market volatility.
According to official Q1, 2026 procurement and shipment records made available to the press, the company locked in nine (9) vessels carrying a combined 407,304.00 metric tonnes, making a total of 534,219 MT of raw materials including the opening balance at the beginning of the 2026 cycle, available for NPK fertiliser production.
All associated Letters of Credit have been fully established or settled, ensuring supply continuity.
The records further show that as of mid-April 2026, over 323,109.24 metric tonnes (approximately 6.5 million 50kg bags) had been released to registered blending plants nationwide, with more than 198,264.41 metric tonnes (approximately 4 million 50kg bags) already offtaken, indicating active distribution across the country ahead of peak planting.
Speaking on the development, the Director of PFI NPK Limited, Dr. Armstrong Ume Takang, said the early procurement strategy was designed to shield Nigeria from external shocks.
“We took a deliberate decision to move early, well ahead of market pressures, by securing supply, locking in pricing, and putting the necessary financial instruments in place.
That foresight is what has ensured that Nigeria is not exposed to the disruptions currently affecting global fertiliser markets,” he said.
Financial data reviewed alongside the procurement records indicate that the early purchasing strategy generated total savings of $43.99 million, equivalent to approximately ₦61.58 billion, when compared with prevailing spot market prices.
A breakdown of the figures shows that GAS was secured at $228 per metric tonne against a current market price of $343, while DAP was locked in at $775 per tonne compared to $950, and MOP at $400 per tonne against $430.
These price differentials reflect the impact of securing supply ahead of global price escalations.
Fertiliser availability and pricing remain central to Nigeria’s agricultural productivity and overall food supply. With global market conditions placing increasing pressure on input costs, ensuring consistent supply and price stability is critical to supporting production outcomes across the agricultural sector.
PFI NPK operates a centralised bulk procurement and distribution model, importing raw materials and supplying them to 94 FEPSAN registered blending plants across Nigeria. The company does not import finished fertiliser, ensuring that all NPK production is carried out domestically, supporting local industry and value addition.
In 2025, the company delivered 648,000 metric tonnes of raw materials. For 2026, operations are being scaled significantly, with a target of 1.52 million metric tonnes.
The supply chain operates under strict governance protocols. Collateral Management Agents provide independent oversight at warehouses, while raw materials remain under PFI NPK control until confirmed sales and repayment are executed.
Standard operating procedures, developed in collaboration with the Fertiliser Producers and Suppliers Association of Nigeria (FEPSAN), guide handling, storage, and distribution, with regulatory compliance ensured through NAFDAC and Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) requirements.
Operations are further supported by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), whose approval remains central to PFI NPK’s ability to operate and scale its distribution across the country.
For farmers preparing for the 2026 wet season, the immediate outcome is supply certainty. Raw materials are either already in-country or in transit, blending plants are receiving inputs, and the risk of sudden price shocks linked to global disruptions has been significantly reduced.
Dr. Takang emphasised that the impact of the intervention ultimately rests at the farm level. “What matters is that the farmer can access fertiliser when needed and at a price that does not undermine production.
By stabilising supply and managing cost exposure at the procurement stage, we are supporting that outcome at scale,” he said.
Looking ahead, the company is strengthening long-term supply security through Government-to-Government partnerships with international suppliers and advancing plans for a digital enterprise system to provide real-time visibility across procurement, inventory, and distribution.
About PFI NPK Limited
PFI NPK Limited is a wholly owned entity of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and the designated implementation vehicle for Nigeria’s Presidential Fertiliser Initiative.
The company operates a centralised bulk procurement and distribution system for fertiliser raw materials, ensuring domestic blending and nationwide supply stability.
For Media Enquiries,
Contact: Mr Tajudeen Datti Ahmed, – Executive Director, Portfolio,
Email: info@mofi.com.ng
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