The Federal Ministry of Environment has called on Nigerians to prioritize environmental hygiene to curb the spread of cholera.
This appeal was made by the Permanent Secretary, Mahmud Adam Kambari, during the launch of the 2024 National Environmental Sanitation Day activities in Piwoyi, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Represented by Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Kambari emphasized the crucial role of hygiene in disease prevention.
“Currently in the country, we are faced with the challenge of a cholera outbreak, which is caused by bacterial infection spread through contaminated water or food due to unhygienic practices,” Kambari stated.
The theme for this year’s event, “Environmental Sanitation in the Era of Climate Change: Go Greener, Stay Clean, Climate Change is Real,” underscores the importance of maintaining clean environments amidst changing climate conditions.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted open defecation as a primary cause of cholera and urged communities to adopt better sanitation practices.
The Ministry’s commitment to partnering with communities for a cleaner environment was reiterated by Kambari. Piwoyi was chosen to kick-start the 2024 NESD activities, with a series of events including a school debate on June 25 and the main event on June 28.
In his goodwill message, Mr. Jonathan Duku of Breakthrough Action Nigeria stressed the importance of cleanliness to prevent cholera and Lassa fever.
He noted, “Mitigating environmental challenges will not only eradicate cholera but also other diseases like Lassa fever, as dirty environments attract rats that cause Lassa fever.”
Mr. Edwin Isotu Ede, representing the World Health Organization (WHO), encouraged the community to use the opportunity to promote sanitation and hygiene. He advised landlords to leave space for trees and ensure the availability of toilets.
The Director of Environment, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Mrs. Hannatu Ibrahim, pledged continued collaboration with the Piwoyi community to prevent cholera.
The Etsu of Piwoyi Community, Mr. Tanko Lazarus Bahago, appreciated the Ministry’s efforts and vowed to maintain clean environments.
To engage students and inspire future generations, a quiz competition on environmental issues was organized. Participating schools included Federal Government College Wuye, Model Junior Secondary School Maitama, Junior Secondary School Area 10, Junior Secondary School Area 11, P-E-M International Academy Lugbe, and First Kingdom Kids Academy Mararaba. JSS Area 10 emerged as the winner, with prizes to be awarded at the main event on June 28 in Abuja.
