New York: Gene Therapy Offers New Sickle Cell Cure
In the US

New York: Gene therapy offers new sickle cell cure in the US. Sebastien Beauzile, a 21-year-old from Laurelton, Long Island, has become the first person in New York State to be cured of sickle cell anemia using the groundbreaking Lyfgenia gene therapy.

Administered at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, this innovative treatment provides hope for many suffering from the painful genetic disorder, Forbes reported on Sunday.

A Lifelong Battle
Sickle cell anemia causes abnormally shaped red blood cells, leading to severe pain and potential organ damage.

Beauzile, diagnosed at just four months old, endured frequent hospitalizations due to intense pain crises, which he described as “10 out of 10” in severity.

Sickle Cell Cure

Gene Therapy Breakthrough
Developed by Bluebird Bio and approved by the FDA in December 2023, Lyfgenia works by extracting a patient’s blood stem cells, genetically modifying them to include functional hemoglobin genes, and reinfusing them into the bloodstream.

This cutting-edge approach marks a major step forward in treating sickle cell disease.

PUMA Replaces Nike as Premier League’s Official Ball Supplier In 2025/26 Season

PUMA replaces Nike as premier league’s official ball supplier in 2025/26 season. Global sportswear brand PUMA has secured a major deal with the Premier League, becoming its Official Ball Supplier starting from the 2025/26 season.

Announced on Monday, this partnership sees PUMA take over from Nike, which has supplied match balls for the league for over two decades.

The agreement will not only place PUMA’s ball at the heart of every Premier League match but also involve collaborations on grassroots programs, high-profile marketing campaigns, and events like the Premier League Summer Series in the U.S.

PUMA CEO Arne Freundt described the deal as a significant step in the company’s efforts to elevate its brand in elite football.

“With PUMA’s ball at the center of attention during every match, we will create unforgettable moments for players and fans alike,” he said.

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters welcomed the partnership, emphasizing PUMA’s strong history in football and its alignment with the league’s values.

PUMA Replaces Nike

“We are delighted to welcome PUMA as the Official Ball Supplier of the Premier League. Their global reach and commitment to excellence will help inspire fans worldwide,” Masters stated.

With this landmark deal, PUMA expands its influence in top-tier football, strengthening its presence in the world’s most-watched league.

NAHCON’s Preparations For The 2025 Hajj: A Commitment To Excellence

NAHCON’s Preparations for the 2025 Hajj: A Commitment to Excellence. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has intensified its efforts ahead of the 2025 Hajj, implementing strategic measures to ensure a smooth pilgrimage for Nigerian Muslims.

Despite initial skepticism, the commission has demonstrated proactive leadership under Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, who has spearheaded key reforms and strengthened partnerships.

Contract Adjustments for Efficient Pilgrimage Management
One of the major developments was NAHCON’s decision to revise its service contracts in Saudi Arabia.

On February 22, 2025, the commission renegotiated its agreement with Mashariq Al Dhahabia, reducing the service scope from 95,000 to 52,000 pilgrims to align with actual participation numbers. Additionally, an alternative service provider was engaged to enhance support during the critical Masha’ir period, ensuring optimal care for Nigerian pilgrims.

While Mashariq Al Dhahabia raised concerns over the adjustment, NAHCON emphasized that prioritizing pilgrim welfare necessitated this decision.

Strengthening Leadership with a New Secretary
Recognizing the need for administrative efficiency, NAHCON appointed Dr. Mustapha Muhammad Ali as its new Secretary on February 26, 2025. Dr. Ali, a seasoned academic and administrator from Borno State, brings a wealth of experience in Islamic studies and public administration. His appointment follows a rigorous selection process and aims to enhance the commission’s operational framework.

Collaboration with State Governments
NAHCON has also engaged state governments to bolster Hajj operations. A key meeting between Professor Usman and Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, resulted in the governor pledging support for NAHCON’s initiatives and mobilizing the Nigerian Governors’ Forum to assist pilgrims nationwide.

NAHCON

Commitment to Transparency and Excellence
Amidst adjustments and reforms, NAHCON has remained transparent, openly communicating its decisions to the public. The commission’s dedication to enhancing service quality and ensuring a seamless pilgrimage experience underscores its commitment to Nigerian pilgrims.

As preparations for the 2025 Hajj progress, NAHCON’s strategic approach, administrative restructuring, and collaborative efforts signal a promising and well-organized pilgrimage season.

With Ramadan offering a time for reflection and prayers, Nigerian Muslims can look forward to a spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience.