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Background Recent spates of bomb blasts unleashed by terrorists in eight Nigerian States warranted research into the health cost of managing one of such bomb blast victim. Methods We conducted a retrospective study in one hospital in each of eight states (Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Yobe, Gombe, Niger, Kaduna and Kano) from 2010–2012 using a cluster sampling method, selecting fifty victims of bomb blast per state. We obtained data from hospital intake billing registers. Results The following costs reflect the range of in-patient hospital costs only. They do not include follow up treatment, rehabilitation, or mental health counselling. Hospital stays ranged from 4–8 weeks per person. 1. Borno State: 700USD–2000USD 2. Plateau State: 750USD–3500USD 3. Bauchi State: 720USD–3000USD 4. Yobe State: 700USD–3150USD 5. Gombe State: 730USD–3350USD 6. Niger State: 710USD–3450USD 7. Kaduna State: 800USD–3750USD 8. Kano State: 850USD–4000USD Conclusion and Significance The relevance of this pilot study in identifying the cost of managing injuries of one bomb blast victim exposes an enormous diversion of scare healthcare resources from the care of between 10–57 people based on the current Nigerian health expenditures per capita. There is an urgent need to prevent violence from these terrorists.

IntroductionViolence is a leading global public health problem and public health strategies had been advocated to address it. Radio is the predominant source of news and information for the African public. Radio may be a source to disseminate suggestions that may advance violence prevention especially in Nigeria.ObjectiveTo study the impact of using the radio in preventing injuries from violent conflict and to propose effective ways of prevention.MethodA radio series Bringing Peace to the People on Silverbird Rhythm 93.7 Jos, Nigeria was launched in July 2009 and five youths participants randomly selected from eight areas previously affected by violent conflicts in Jos. The study was based on feedbacks via text messages, phone calls and interviews. Results are presented in simple percentage, frequencies and tables.Result75% (n=30) believes that the radio is a means of reducing violent conflicts, 8% (n=3) believe the radio is not a tool in reducing violent conflict, 17% (n=7) are unsure. 75% (n=30) are frequent listeners of radio while 25% (n=10) are not. 18% believe in the possession of guns for self defence, 63% don't agree to possession of guns while 19% aren't sure.ConclusionFrom our results, radio is a useful tool in preventing violent conflict among youths. Listener feedback supports the premise that radio is useful means of violence prevention among youths. ‘Bringing Peace to the People’ is one of the first attempts using radio in Nigeria for beneficial goal of violence prevention.

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IntroductionRadio, the major source of news and information in Nigeria, is largely controlled by the state. Broadcasting objective content, and supporting independent radio stations, is warranted. Medical student members of the Nigerian affiliate of International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War were inspired to bring information about health approaches to violence prevention to radio listeners who had endured periodic ethno-religious and political violence in Jos.ObjectivesTo use the pilot program Bringing Peace to the People on the independent Silverbird Rhythm 93.7 to conduct a preliminary assessment of listener response to a radio peace initiative.Materials and MethodsThe program included interactive sessions by health professionals who presented evidence-based information and answered questions on such topics: Small Arms, Violence and Public Health; and Youth, Violence and Health. A sample of 25 listeners comments was used to assess public response, received via text messaging and telephones.Results92% (n=23) had a better understanding about violence prevention as a result of the program; 84% (n=21) commended it; 4% (n=1) suggested auditioning of presenters; 8% (n=2) stated the need for more hands in the pursuit of peace; 4% (n=1) believed the older people should be enlisted in peace efforts. Three youth groups indicated a strong interest in partnership.Discussion and ConclusionInitial responses encouraged the authors to continue to develop additional programs on violence prevention. However, integration of regular station-sponsored radio programs supported by advertisements will enhance long-term sustainability of such endeavours.