Health
FMC Abuja mourns nurse killed, dumped by roadside
By Folasade Akpan
The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, is mourning the tragic killing of 28-year-old nurse Chinemerem Chuwumeziem, describing the incident as gruesome and devastating for the entire hospital community.
The Medical Director, Prof. Saad Ahmed, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja that staff were still in shock, describing Chuwumeziem as a rising star whose future held great promise.
Chuwumeziem, who joined FMC Abuja in 2025, quickly distinguished herself through dedication and compassion, earning admiration from colleagues and patients.
She was named Best Nurse of the Year 2025 at the hospital’s award programme.
A single lady, she lived with her aunt in Wuse, Abuja, and hailed from Orlu, Imo State.
Her death has deeply affected staff and triggered widespread mourning at the hospital.
Ahmed said Chuwumeziem finished her afternoon shift on Saturday and left the hospital at 6:13 p.m., as captured on CCTV. That was the last time she was seen alive.
He said concern was raised early Sunday when her family reported she had not returned home.
“The hospital immediately mobilised staff to search nearby areas and hospitals, but nothing was found.
“The hospital alerted its Chief Security Officer, who contacted security agencies.
“The police later discovered her body around Bolingo Hotel Junction and took it to the mortuary. Her family buried her in Imo State.
“The incident was reported to the Federal Ministry of Health, the Department of State Services, and the police, who have assured the hospital that investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible.”
Ahmed said measures were being taken to support staff and reduce risks, including reviewing shift schedules, improving the hospital shuttle bus system, and enhancing staff safety arrangements.
He prayed for the repose of Chuwumeziem’s soul and for strength for her family and colleagues to bear the painful loss.
Also speaking, Head of Nursing Services Mrs Abigail Gwimi, described the nurse as gentle, dutiful, and deeply committed to patient care.
“Her disappearance triggered frantic searches through the night.”
Gwimi said the police found the body with her bag, containing personal items, including a Bible, while her phone was missing. The cause of death was reported as asphyxiation.
“The killing has heightened fears among nurses and health workers who often work long shifts and commute late, affecting morale and creating anxiety about personal safety.”
She added that hospital management was engaging staff for emotional support and reviewing duty schedules and security measures to reassure workers and prevent a recurrence of such incidents. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Health
Nigerian Scholar Pioneers Plant-Based Nutrition Breakthrough for Elderly Care
Joel Ajayi
A Nigerian academic is making promising strides in global nutrition research, bringing hope for improved dietary care for elderly patients with high cholesterol.
Feyisola Fisayo Ajayi, a lecturer at the Federal University Gashua in Yobe State and a PhD student at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), recently completed a research visit to the Department of Food Science at Purdue University in the United States. Her work focuses on developing innovative, plant-based nutritional solutions tailored to the needs of older adults living with hypercholesterolemia.
During her time at Purdue, Ajayi investigated the development of a novel plant protein–derived nutritional hydrogel designed to make cholesterol-lowering nutrients easier and more appealing for elderly patients to consume. Research has shown that many older adults struggle with powdered nutraceuticals due to reduced appetite, diminished taste sensitivity, and a weakened sense of smell. Ajayi’s work offers a practical alternative.
The plant-based hydrogel she is developing has a unique thermo-reversible property: it remains solid at room temperature but melts when exposed to higher temperatures. This makes it an effective and user-friendly vehicle for delivering cholesterol-lowering bioactive compounds.
“This hydrogel is unique because it combines functionality with acceptability,” Ajayi explained. “By incorporating plant proteins into a thermo-reversible structure, we can create a product that is both effective and appealing for elderly patients who need reliable dietary interventions.”
Her research at Purdue includes detailed analyses of the hydrogel’s physicochemical characteristics, stability, and rheological behavior. In addition, in-vitro digestion studies are being conducted to assess how effectively the hydrogel can deliver essential bioactive compounds during digestion.
Ajayi’s work aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable, plant-based, and functional food solutions, particularly for vulnerable populations. Her research contributes to the growing field of functional foods and protein chemistry, with potential applications in clinical nutrition and long-term dietary management.
Beyond the scientific impact, her visit to Purdue University highlights the value of international academic collaboration in addressing complex health and nutrition challenges. As she continues her doctoral research at UAEU, Ajayi hopes to translate her findings into practical nutritional products that can benefit elderly populations in Nigeria, the UAE, and beyond.
Her achievements underscore the power of cross-border research and academic exchange programs in driving innovation. With scholars like Ajayi leading the way, the future of functional, plant-based nutrition solutions looks increasingly bright.
-
Featured7 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured6 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured7 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News1 year agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
