News
Lagos not Igboland, we’re visitors —Iwuanyanwu
President General of apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, is in Lagos for a three-day visit during which he will meet with Igbo leaders and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to address issues affecting Igbo in the economic capital of the country.
In an interview after one of the engagements with Igbo leaders in Ikoyi, on Wednesday, he spoke on issues around his emergence as Ohanaeze leader, his agenda for Igbo, the blowing wind of insecurity in the South-East and how the Federal Government can arrest it among others.
On issues surrounding his election as
Ohanaeze leader
Some months ago I was elected leader of all Igbo, which is the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Frankly speaking, at over 80 years, it was a very difficult thing for me to accept, although I saw that my people were very passionate about having me serve them. All the leaders came to me expressing their support and confidence in me. All the five governors of the South-East also came to me saying they were with me.
All the seven presidents of Ohanaeze in the various states – Rivers, Delta, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Anambra and Ebonyi came too. All these made me realise that I had no choice. It is my belief that any gift possessed by an individual is from God. Therefore, if your people call you to serve them at any time and you fail, you are not fair to God the creator who has given you the gift.
Opposition from his nuclear family
My wife and children didn’t want me to accept it. However, I had to convince them. Some said I would die, but I told them that if I die at 80 it is not too early.
First official tour of South-West
Where am I today? I am on my first official tour to South-West Nigeria. I have come to meet Igbo in the South-West. I met the elders last night (Tuesday) in what we call Ime-obi, which is where we meet in Igbo culture to make far-reaching decisions. We had a meeting in the house of one of our elders, Cmdr. Ebitu Ukiwe, retd. It was a very successful meeting.
As I arrived at the airport, my people gave me a wonderful reception. All the Ezes and town union presidents lined up. I have just finished a meeting with the Ezes because we have a system that demands that we organise ourselves wherever we are. Every success that Igbo have achieved over the years is because we have the capacity to come together at a short notice. The town union is part of our structure,
The people I have met here today are very important people in the lives of Igbo. Wherever I go, I meet with these people, and they whisper the condition of things to me. I am here essentially on my first official tour to South-West and I have been very well-received. I am very happy because my people have shown a lot of trust and confidence in me. I have made up my mind and I pray to God Almighty to give me the capacity to serve them and to help me so that I do not fall below their expectations.
What are your plans for the Igbo?
I have studied the map of Igboland and I have carried out a very comprehensive study on agriculture, our mineral resources or natural endowment and intellectual capacity. Based on these things, I am quite convinced that we have a lot of prospects. I am bent on transforming Igboland; I believe that by the plan that I am making, I will transform agriculture, the industrial base and commerce because our people are trade-inclined, which is a major part of our wealth.
Without fear of contradictions, when you talk about Gross Domestic Product, GDP, in Nigeria today, I think Igbo contribute more to the GDP than any other group because we are there in every local government. There is no local government in Nigeria today where you won’t see Igbo. Wherever they are, they carry out their businesses which could be trading in one commodity or the other, even farming. Whatever they do, they pay taxes, build houses and live peacefully with the people there. I believe they are doing well for Nigeria.
We are very proud that our people are contributing positively to Nigeria. Many patriotic Nigerians appreciate it.
There is a lack of clarity on the President of Ohanaeze in Lagos State. Is Chief Sunday Ossai the president?
We have our constitution. Professor George Obiozor was the chairman before he died. Ambassador Okey Emuchay is the Secretary General. They handed over Sunday Ossai to me as the President of Lagos branch without informing me of any dispute. The report I had was that the former man, Solomon, who I don’t know and I have never met, had completed his four-year tenure. This man, because he probably believes that some powerful people are going to support him, wants to destabilise Ohanaeze. This is the impression that I get from people. I want to make it clear that the former President General of Ohanaeze handed over Sunday Ossai to me as the President of Lagos branch.
We have had a very unfortunate experience recently. Out of personal interest, some people are doing everything to undermine Ohanaeze, which is the hope of Igbo. It is our hope of development and unity. You see a small boy jump up to say he is the Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. The Secretary General is Okey Emuchay, who has served Nigeria in various capacities. He is a man with impeccable academic credentials and civil service credentials. Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo cannot just pick anyone as its Secretary General. For Publicity Secretary, you have Dr Alex Ogbonnia. All these scoundrels who mislead the public should be reported to the police for fraud.
Are the Ezes in Lagos recognised?
The concept is part of Igbo culture. Igbo have always believed in leadership. We believe that if you don’t come together with a leader, the problems of life cannot be fought. The problems could arise from humans, society and the economy. What has saved Igbo wherever they live either in Nigeria or outside is that wherever they go they come together. It has helped us in many areas. As President General, the Ezes are part of the people who have supported me and they have confidence in me. Their position is unchallengeable because we need their leadership, we need their position.
As the President General, how do you intend to ensure that the Igbo are well-protected in Lagos?
Before 1914 when Nigeria was amalgamated, Igbo had started coming to Lagos. When Igbo started coming to Lagos, there was no Ikoyi, most of Ikoyi was riverine. There was no Victoria Island, there was no Lekki.
Igbo are part of the development in Africa and Lagos. Right from the time the first railway lines were built, Igbo were here. There is no way anybody can talk about the development of Lagos with all honesty and exclude Igbo.
When you talk about Lagos, some Igbo have lived in Lagos since their grandparents began living here, which is as far back as 1914. The truth about this thing is that we have a character in Igboland which makes us different. We know that we have a home and our home is in Eastern Nigeria. Wherever we go, we know we are visitors, and we have never gone anywhere to claim their land. Every Igbo man who owns a property in Lagos does so legitimately.
We have not come to preach a sermon that God gave us the land in Lagos. We paid for it. People from Igboland have not only developed lands, they have built houses. If you go to Lekki, Victoria Island, Lekki, everywhere, these things were built by humans. Lagos is Lagos because people, like the Igbo, came and invested. They include northerners and those from other tribes. Igbo came, invested and developed the place without forgetting the fact that they are visitors. Every Igbo man is told from home to obey the law of his host community and Igbo have done that all through history.
Recently, we started hearing all these stories, I think we can solve the problem and we are only appealing to them because asking people to leave is a new phenomenon. We are not worried about it because I have discussed with top indigenes of Lagos. Leaders in Lagos are not in support of this view. I want to let you know that Ohanaeze under my leadership is working with the five South-East governors on this issue. Hope Uzodimma told me that South-East governors would meet with their colleague (Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu). I was pleased that they had a good meeting with the governor of Lagos State where they came up with a communiqué. Lagos State governor did very well. In fact, people are happy.
During the election, Ohanaeze Ndigbo supported Peter Obi in the election because we believed that it was our turn based on the zoning arrangement. We have nothing against Tinubu as a person. We supported Peter Obi because we believed that it was our turn and we believed that he is capable. Today, Tinubu has been sworn in as the President and we have many Igbo in the All Progressives Congress, APC, who cannot be stopped.
Peter Obi is in court and the decision isn’t ours to take but the judiciary. I learned that the governor is in Abuja, I will try to see him, but even if I don’t see him, I am quite satisfied that Governor Uzodimma has seen him. What we don’t want is the demolition of properties belonging to the Igbo or to inflate taxation against them.
A lot of rumours are flying all over the place but I don’t believe these things are true because I don’t believe any right thinking government can do that. I can tell you that at the moment, we have no problem. I have told the Igbo that I have discussed with top Lagosians. I have also told the Igbo that they are safe and they have no problem in Lagos State, Igbos are happy and they are going to stay.
What programme do you have for other tribes who live or intend to move to the South-East?
I have a programme. I am going to create more towns, business centres in Igboland. We want other tribes to come and invest in Igboland. We have helped to develop Lagos and other parts of Nigeria. During my tenure as President General and the leader of Igbo, I am calling on other people to come and reciprocate. They should come and develop Igboland. If they have any problem, they should report to Ohanaeze. We will intervene and ensure that entrepreneurs interested in investing are given land and encouraged to invest.
Don’t you think insecurity and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s issue will be a hindrance to potential investors?
We don’t have security problems in the South-East. We have said ‘release Nnamdi’ because the young people are supporters of Nnamdi Kanu, which is an excuse that they give.
When we look at it seriously, we have not seen any offence committed by Kanu. In fact, the court has said he should be released. As Igbo leaders, we do not see the reason he is being kept in detention. These people are giving it as an excuse for their sit-at-home. We believe that keeping Nnamdi Kanu in prison is an effort to collaborate with some elements who want to destroy the economy of states in the South-East. We are appealing to the Federal Government to release Kanu because if he is released, we can now know those who are proper criminals and agitators.
I believe that President Tinubu will be able to release Nnamdi because we have not been told he committed any offence. He is being detained even though he was not caught carrying AK-47. Nnamdi Kanu is sick and if he dies in prison, it will create a lot of problems for us. Every Igbo leader has talked about his release including the five South-East governors.
I think if any Nigerian leader has respect for the Igbo, he will release Kanu because once he is released the security problem will be reduced. I want to tell you that South-East or Igboland is not worse than other places.
Security is bad all over the country but release Nnamdi Kanu, let him be free and let us attack our own insecurity. There are people causing insecurity in the North and they have even gone to the prison in Abuja to release everybody, yet nobody has put anyone on trial.
They had even kidnapped people in the train and they negotiated with them. Nnamdi Kanu has never been involved in any of these things.
Culled from the Vanguard Nigeria
The trend of Japa (emigration) has been a last resort for a lot of Nigerians looking to find greener pastures and better living conditions.
A few reasons why people choose to emigrate include: economic opportunities, better job prospects, economic stability, education, security and safety, healthcare and living standards, social and political freedom, family reunification, environmental factors.
In this article we’re focusing on ‘education and family reunification’, and here are 10 countries that allow foreign students to come along with dependents:
1. Finland
Family members of international students can apply for a visa to join them in Finland by making use of their relationship with the student. To be eligible, the student must hold a valid residence permit for study purposes in Finland. Additionally, there must be proof of adequate financial resources and valid health insurance to cover the dependent’s entire stay. The visa application fee depends on the age of the applicant adults are charged higher than children. Before making the trip to Finland the following documents have to be at hand; valid passport of the dependents, completed residence permit application form, proof of family relationship, proof of financial means to support dependents, health insurance for dependents, copy of the international student’s residence permit and passport, proof of accommodation in Finland.
2. Denmark
International students in Denmark looking to reunite with family members can do so under the Danish Family Visa scheme, provided they hold a valid study residence permit. This visa covers spouses, children, and even parents, allowing them to stay in the country for up to two years. During this period, dependents are permitted to work or run a business, as long as their residence status remains valid. The application process is handled online, with a standard visa fee. This family visa requires the following documents provided; valid passport, student’s residence permit details, proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.), proof of accommodation in Denmark, proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, scholarship details, etc.)
3. Malta
Malta allows for family members of foreign students to apply for a family reunification visa, this visa allows for spouses and children who are minors to travel to Malta for the duration of the student’s stay in Malta, and the student has to be financially stable enough to support their family. The family would have to apply for a separate family visa while the student’s sponsorship and application is reviewed. This visa application is only possible if the student has a resident permit.
4. China
China provides two visa options for dependents of international students: the S1 and S2 visas. The S1 visa, commonly referred to as a long-term visa, is designed for dependents planning to stay in China for more than 180 days. To qualify, the sponsoring student must hold a valid X1 student visa. Fees for the S1 visa vary depending on the applicant’s nationality. For shorter stays of less than 180 days, the S2 visa is available. This option requires the student to possess either an X1 or X2 visa. Regardless of the visa type, applicants must submit a set of specified documents during the application process. A few documents needed are; valid passport, recent passport-size photo, invitation letter from the international student, proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.), copy of the international student’s residence permit and passport, proof of accommodation in China, additional document needed for the s1 visa option only is the health insurance covering the stay in China due to the long duration of stay.
5. New Zealand
New Zealand offers several visa options that allow family members to join international students, as long as the students meet the necessary eligibility criteria and provide financial support for their dependents during the application process. The Partner of a Student Work Visa enables partners to work full-time and children to study, provided the student is enrolled in a program that qualifies them for a post-study work visa. These policies aim to ease the transition for international students and their families, promoting a balanced lifestyle while studying abroad.
6. Austria
Austria offers a dependent visa that allows families to reunite, including parents, spouses, and unmarried children under 18. The visa fee for a long-term stay exceeding 90 days is €150, though this fee may change without notice. Applicants are advised to check the current exchange rate before making any payments. Austria demands these documents to acquire a visa: visa application form, international passport, proof of relationship (marriage certificate), certificate of criminal records, health insurance, financial documents, proof of accommodation, medical examination documents, passport photograph. This visa encourages good integration of international students into the society.
7. Australia
The Australian Government offers a range of visa options for the dependents of international students, including Family and Partner Visas for parents, spouses (both same-gender and opposite-gender), and financially dependent children, whether under or over 18. The work rights of a dependent spouse are determined by the student’s level of study, and the duration of the dependent’s stay aligns with that of the international student.
8. Germany
The German government offers a family reunification visa that allows dependents to join international students in the country. This visa is available exclusively for close family members, also known as the core family, which includes a wife, husband, or a registered same-sex partner. The partner must be over 18 years old at the time of marriage. This visa payment is charged per applicant.
9. USA
The F-2 dependent visa is a non-immigrant visa option that permits the spouse, children, or parents of F-1 visa holders to enter the United States. Eligible dependents include spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. Children over 21 are not eligible to be dependents of an international student. To apply for this visa, applicants must meet the following criteria: Be a spouse or parent of an approved F-1 visa holder Be an unmarried child under the age of 21 of an approved F-1 visa holder, demonstrate sufficient financial means to support their stay in the U.S, the validity of the F-2 visa is tied to the status of the F-1 visa holder.
10. Canada
The Government of Canada allows international students with an S-1 visa or higher, and who are over the age of 18, to sponsor their dependents to live with them while studying. The family class sponsorship visa enables spouses, common-law or conjugal partners, parents, and children to join their family members in Canada. If you are sponsoring your spouse along with dependent children, or if you are sponsoring an adopted child, a fee will be required for each child included in the application.
Vanguard News
The case was close to conclusion by July last year when the elevation of the then-trial judge forced a re-assignment of the case to a new judge, hence, its re-starting from the beginning by re-arraignment.
The re-arraignment of Olugbenga Obadina, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Almond Projects Limited, on Monday, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) suffered a setback.
Mr Obadina is being prosecuted over his alleged involvement in the misappropriation of N33.2 billion meant for the purchase of arms by then National Security Adviser (NSA) Sambo Dasuki.
The matter, which was fixed for hearing before trial judge James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, could not proceed because the amended charge, claimed to have been filed by the EFCC, was not in the court file.
Upon resumed hearing, the prosecution lawyer, Ibrahim Buba, informed the court that he had an amended charge filed on 2 May and served on the defendants.
But Mr Omotosho could not see the amended charge in the court file after a thorough search.
“Counsel, I do not have that charge before this court and I have checked our ledger and I do not see it there,” he said.
The judge said the amended charge might have been mistakenly taken to another court at the instruction of the anti-graft agency’s lawyer during the filing of the process.
Mr Buba admitted that the amended charge might have been taken to Court 8, instead of Court 7 where the trial judge presides. He tendered an apology for the mix-up.
Adeola Adedipe, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), who appeared for the defendants in the case, also apologised to the court on behalf of the prosecution.
Mr Omotosho subsequently adjourned the matter until 26 June for re-arraignment of the defendants.
“This matter is adjourned to June 26 for arraignment of the defendants for the amended charge that is not before this court as a result of the prosecution given wrong number of the court at the Process Unit,” the judge said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Obadina, alongside his company, was earlier re-arraigned on 13 January 2024, by the anti-corruption commission on eight counts of money laundering to the tune of N2.17 billion before Mr Omotosho.
The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the counts and the judge ordered his remand in Kuje correctional centre pending the perfection of his bail conditions.
NAN reports that Mr Dasuki, the NSA during the President Goodluck Jonathan administration, was accused of criminal diversion of funds to the tune of $2.1 billion U.S. dollars.
The money was allegedly part of funds earmarked by the federal government to fight Boko Haram insurgency in the North-east.
The EFCC had, in the case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/142/2016, charged Mr Obadina and Almond Project Limited, following their alleged link with Mr Dasuki’s misappropriated funds.
They were formerly being prosecuted before Justice Nnamdi Dimgba of a sister court before his elevation to the Court of Appeal.
In court three of the charge, Mr Obadina and Almond Projects Ltd were alleged to have taken, on 3 April 2014, direct possession or control of the sum of N648 million paid into the account of Almond Projects Ltd with Zenith Bank Plc Account No: 1010921116.
The NSA office allegedly paid the money from its account with the Central Bank of Nigeria to the defendants without contract award.
The anti-corruption agency said the fund formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful activity of Mr Dasuki and that the offence is contrary to Section 15(2), (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 as amended in 2012 and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.
NAN reports that, earlier on 4 July 2024, the former trial judge, Mr Dimgba, adjourned the case for adoption of final written addresses after the EFCC closed its case with four witnesses and the defendants called two witnesses before he was elevated to the Appeal Court.
If you’re wondering whether the healthcare sector offers promising high-paying jobs that don’t require a degree, it does.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare is projected to grow 13% through 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth, combined with the need to replace retiring workers, is expected to create 1.9 million job openings each year. While many positions require advanced degrees, a number of high-paying jobs in healthcare require only a high school diploma or GED combined with specific certifications.
These accessible medical roles offer exciting career opportunities that provide job security, competitive salaries, and a sense of fulfillment in helping others. Let’s explore 10 high-paying jobs in healthcare that offer strong earning potential while allowing you to make a difference in people’s lives.
1. Medical Assistant
What is a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants work with physicians in clinics and doctors’ offices, performing clinical and administrative duties. They measure vital signs, schedule appointments, prepare patients for exams, and assist with basic procedures.
Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required
Medical assistant certification is preferred but not always mandatory
Training programs typically take 9-12 months to complete
Median Annual Salary
$41,475; up to $50,000
How to Get a Job
Complete a training program at a community college or vocational school, obtain certification through organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), and gain hands-on experience through externships or entry-level positions.
Who Should Consider This Career
Detail-oriented individuals who enjoy patient interaction and can balance clinical and administrative responsibilities. Medical assisting offers an excellent starting point for those interested in healthcare fundamentals and who possess compassion combined with organizational skills.
2. Pharmacy Technician
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists by helping prepare and dispense medications. They count pills, label prescriptions, process insurance claims, and manage inventory in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.
Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required
Certification typically required
Most states mandate certification through PTCB or NHA
Training programs typically take 3-12 months
Median Annual Salary
$40,300; up to $55,000
How to Get a Job
Complete a pharmacy technician training program, obtain certification, and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. Many retail pharmacies offer on-the-job training programs.
Who Should Consider This Career
People with strong mathematical aptitude and precision who can thrive in structured environments. The role requires people with excellent soft skills like communication and the ability to stay focused while performing detailed tasks in retail and clinical settings.
3. Medical Administrative Assistant
What is a Medical Administrative Assistant?
Medical administrative assistants manage the front-office operations of healthcare facilities. They schedule appointments, maintain patient records, handle billing and insurance, and serve as the first point of contact for patients.
Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required
Certification as Medical Administrative Assistant preferred
Familiarity with medical terminology and electronic health record systems beneficial
Training programs typically take 3-9 months
Median Annual Salary
$43,380; up to $58,000
How to Get a Job
Complete a certificate program in medical office administration, obtain certification through organizations like the National Healthcareer Association, and develop proficiency with healthcare-specific software.
Who Should Consider This Career
Strong communicators who excel at multitasking and prefer administrative work to caring for patients. The position is ideal for individuals with exceptional organizational abilities who remain composed in fast-paced environments and enjoy being at the center of a medical office.
4. Surgical Technician
What is a Surgical Technician?
Surgical technicians, also called surgical technologists or operating room technicians, assist surgeons during operations. They prepare operating rooms, arrange surgical instruments, and maintain a sterile environment.
Qualifications Needed:
High school diploma or GED required
Completion of a surgical technology program required
Certification through NBSTSA is highly recommended or required
Training programs typically take 12-24 months
Median Annual Salary
$60,370; up to $75,000
How to Get a Job
Complete an accredited surgical technology program, obtain certification, and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions in hospitals or ambulatory surgical centers.
Who Should Consider This Career
People who maintain composure under stress and possess meticulous attention to detail along with stamina. If you are technically minded and fascinated by surgical procedures, you will find this high-paying job intellectually challenging.
5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
What is an Emergency Medical Technician?
EMTs provide emergency medical care to patients before and during transportation to hospitals. They respond to emergency calls, perform basic medical interventions, and transport patients safely to medical facilities.
Qualifications Needed:
High school diploma or GED required
Completion of the EMT training program is required
National certification through NREMT required
State licensure required
Training programs typically take 3-6 months
Median Annual Salary
$43,100; up to $60,000
How to Get a Job
Complete an accredited EMT training program, obtain national certification and state licensure, and apply to positions with ambulance services, fire departments, or hospitals.
Who Should Consider This Career
Natural problem-solvers who thrive in high-pressure situations and are driven to help others in crisis. The role demands physical fitness, emotional resilience, and the ability to make quick decisions in unpredictable environments.
6. Dental Assistant
What is a Dental Assistant?
Dental assistants support dentists during examinations and procedures. They prepare patients, sterilize instruments, process X-rays, provide patient education, and handle administrative tasks in dental offices.
Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required
Completion of dental assisting program preferred
Certification preferred or required (varies by state)
Some states allow on-the-job training
Training programs typically take 9-12 months
Median Annual Salary
$41,810; up to $55,000
How to Get a Job
Complete a dental assisting program, obtain certification through the Dental Assisting National Board if required in your state, and gain experience through externships or entry-level positions.
Who Should Consider This Career
People with excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. Those interested in oral health who prefer a stable work environment with regular hours will find satisfaction in this role.
7. Phlebotomist
What is a Phlebotomist?
Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, or blood donations. They verify patient identity, explain procedures, collect and properly label samples, and ensure proper storage and transport of specimens.
Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required
Completion of phlebotomy program preferred
Certification preferred
Training programs typically take 4-8 months
Median Annual Salary
$41,810; up to $55,000
How to Get a Job
Complete a phlebotomy training program, obtain certification through organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions.
Who Should Consider This Career
Individuals with steady hands, meticulous attention to detail, and a calming presence. People who are comfortable with drawing blood and can work efficiently while maintaining accuracy will find consistent demand for their skills across various healthcare settings.
8. EKG Technician
What is an EKG Technician?
EKG (electrocardiogram) technicians, also called cardiac monitoring technicians, perform diagnostic tests that record the electrical activity of patients’ hearts. They operate EKG machines, prepare patients for procedures, and maintain equipment.
Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required
Completion of the EKG technician program preferred
Certification preferred
Training programs typically take 4-6 months
Median Annual Salary
$66,170; up to $80,000
How to Get a Job
Complete an EKG technician training program, obtain certification through organizations like Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions.
Who Should Consider This Career
Technically-minded individuals with strong attention to detail and interest in cardiac care. These high-paying jobs are ideal for those who enjoy working with specialized medical equipment and can establish rapport with patients of all ages.
9. Home Health Aide
What is a Home Health Aide?
Home health aides provide personal care and basic health services to patients in their homes. They assist with daily activities, monitor vital signs, administer medications, and provide companionship to elderly, disabled, or recovering individuals.
Qualifications Needed:
A high school diploma or GED is typically required (some positions accept candidates without one)
Certification requirements vary by state
Some states require formal training (typically 75-120 hours)
Some employers provide on-the-job training
Median Annual Salary
$33,380; up to $45,000
How to Get a Job
Complete a training program if required in your state, obtain certification if necessary, and apply to home health agencies, hospice organizations, or directly with families seeking private care.
Who Should Consider This Career
Compassionate individuals who prefer one-on-one care relationships and independent work environments. Those who gain fulfillment from helping vulnerable populations maintain dignity, and independence will find this role increasingly valued as the population ages.
10. Medical Records Specialist
What is a Medical Records Specialist?
Medical records specialists, also called health information technicians, organize, manage, and protect patient’s health information data. They ensure records are accurate, complete, properly coded for insurance reimbursement, and securely maintained in compliance with regulations.
Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required
Certification typically required
Some employers prefer associate degrees
Many accept certificates in medical coding or health information technology
Training programs typically take 6-12 months
Median Annual Salary
$48,780; up to $65,000
How to Get a Job
Complete a certificate program in health information technology or medical coding, obtain certification through organizations like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), and develop proficiency with electronic health record systems.
Who Should Consider This Career
Detail-oriented individuals with strong analytical skills who prefer behind-the-scenes roles. People who value precision, are interested in healthcare documentation and prefer remote work will find this high-paying job particularly appealing.
The Future Of Non-Degreed Healthcare Careers
The aging population in the U.S. is increasing significantly, driven by the number of baby boomers aged 65 and older. By 2050, this age group is set to reach 82 million, a 47% increase from 2022. This surge, combined with longer life expectancies and an increase in the number of people with chronic conditions, means there will be more demand for high-paying jobs in healthcare that don’t require a degree.
Forbes
A captivating video has emerged showcasing President Bola Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu, as they take to the dance floor in an exuberant display of rhythm and joy in Anambra State recently.
The scene unfolds at a vibrant event filled with laughter and celebration, where the father-son duo captivates the audience in the Southeast state with their energetic moves.
President Bola Tinubu has steadily demonstrated a rare rallying quality; pulling together and not setting asunder. Whether north, south, east, or west, he has remained consistent as an even-handed arbiter, dealing graciously and honourably with everyone.
In Anambra, his second visit to the South-East in 2025, the President reprised his accustomed nationalistic aspect – not a performance or a contrivance, but an organic and time-honed disposition.
As the music plays, President Tinubu, dressed in a stylish outfit, shares a heartfelt moment with his son in Anambra, who matches his father’s enthusiasm with impressive dance skills.
Their infectious smiles and seamless coordination add to the electric atmosphere, making the video trend widely on social media. This delightful moment not only highlights their close bond but also brings a sense of unity and positivity that resonates with viewers.
It was a carnival in the streets of Awka as the President’s convoy entered the city, a welcome deserving only of a well-striped warrior — Dike. The President was honoured with the foremost traditional title — Dike Si-mba of Anambra — mighty warrior/hero.
Earlier, he had inaugurated the Emeka Anyaoku Institute of International Studies and Diplomacy at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, the new Government House, and Solution Funcity.
Speaking at Ekwueme Square, a stadium, where an open meeting was held with an array of South-East leaders, opinion moulders and other citizens, President Tinubu thanked the people of Anambra for the warm welcome and their support.
Crime
Court rejects Afriq Arbitrage CEO, Jesam Michael’s bail application over $854K, N590m fraud charges
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday refused the bail application of Jesam Michael, CEO of the Afriq Arbitrage System (AAS) cryptocurrency trading platform, amid charges of an alleged $844,416.36, $10,000, and N590 million investment fraud instituted against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Emeka Nwite ruled on the motion filed by Michael’s legal team, emphasising that a charge had already been filed against him, and his arraignment must take place before any bail application can be considered.
It would be recalled that the EFCC had filed charges against Michael and his cryptocurrency company for alleged investment fraud involving $844,416.36, $10,000, and N590 million.
The seven-count charge was disclosed in an EFCC affidavit presented before Justice Nwite in April, as part of the Commission’s response to Michael’s bail application.
At the bail hearing before vacation judge, Justice Nwite on April 22, 2025, Emmanuel Agabi, counsel for Michael and the company, argued that his client had already been in custody for 90 days under the police and EFCC.
Agabi submitted a further affidavit in support of his client’s release, stating that the nature of the alleged offence should not warrant denial of bail.
Mary Babatunde, counsel for the EFCC, responded that she had filed an affidavit to show cause why Michael should not be granted bail, as directed by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, the original judge assigned to the fundamental rights case.
She noted that at the time Michael’s lawyers filed for bail, no formal charge had been filed.
However, she said the EFCC has since filed a charge dated April 16, 2024, and intends to arraign Michael once the case is assigned to a judge.
The EFCC stated that Michael was arrested while attempting to leave Nigeria and is unlikely to return to face trial, given the gravity of the charges and weight of the evidence.
The Commission argued that no number of sureties could guarantee his appearance in court.
“The temptation to jump bail is high, especially now that the charges have been filed,” the EFCC stated.
“The EFCC has also received additional petitions from several other victims of the applicants’ alleged offences.”
Justice Nwite, while ruling on the bail application on Friday, said he had considered the submissions of both parties.
He held that, given the nature of the case and the fact that a charge has already been filed, the interest of justice would be best served by addressing the bail application in the court where the charge is pending, so that arraignment and bail can be handled together.
Therefore, the judge ruled that the bail application is refused.
Recall that Michael and his company, between September 2022 and June 2023 in Abuja, allegedly invited the public to deposit funds with Afriq Arbitrage System Limited, despite not being a bank or an authorised financial institution.
This, according to the Commission, contravenes Section 44(1) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, 2020, and is punishable under the same Act.
The EFCC further accused Michael and his company of engaging in the specialized business of financial services, including investment management, without a valid license.
This allegedly resulted in investment fraud amounting to $844,416.36, $10,000, and N590 million.
City People
A teenage girl named Lawal Hameedat Adenike has filed a lawsuit against the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and PEFTI, claiming that she was unjustly forced to remove her hijab before sitting for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The suit was filed on her behalf by her mother and legal representative, Basirat Ojo.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Ojo recounted that the incident took place on April 25, 2025, at the PEFTI CBT Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“My daughter was denied the chance to sit for the exam unless she took off her hijab, which she wears as part of her religious obligations. It was humiliating and distressing for her. I couldn’t ignore such a violation of her rights,” she said.
The lawsuit is seeking a public apology from both JAMB and PEFTI, to be published in two national newspapers. It also demands compensation for the rights violation and a court declaration that any policy compelling female candidates to remove their hijabs is unconstitutional.
Lawal’s lawyer, Qousim Opakunle, said the case is grounded in constitutional rights.
“This directive breaches Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution, which protects freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. We have a responsibility to uphold these rights, especially for minors who are often unable to defend themselves,” he stated.
Many internet users have shared their thoughts in response to the report.
@OKARIAUKE
Nonsense! You guys are misleading the children, A Hijab doesn’t make you pass the exams, we saw Buhari minister with Hijab loot billions! Hijab doesn’t represent morality too. Just deception.
@isaiahobaz
Dey normally use so called hijab (foreign dress) to carry expo to any examination hall
@STOJ30
This one just wan enter news make Islamic council see am give scholarship or money like they are the last hope of humanity
@UcheokoloII
Students that can’t get 200 cut off mark, are complaining about hijabs.
@richone090
APC is sha using every available tool to keep us unsettled and undemanding. It’s up to us to flush them to the latrine, like the shit they are.
@iluemipetson
Those who started religion don’t take it extreme the way Nigerians do. It is a pity.
@EdesonEmeka
Na hijab make her fail abi she pass?
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