Kwali:Kwali Area Council The Federal Government has called on states to develop and implement hand hygiene action plans within six months to curb the spread of infectious diseases and boost public health. This initiative was announced during the 2026 Global Handwashing Day event.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasized the importance of hand hygiene as a preventive measure against cholera and other waterborne diseases. Represented by Mr. Ibrahim Dallah, the Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Utsev outlined the need for each state to identify and implement a practical hand hygiene intervention, backed with clear responsibilities, adequate funding, and mechanisms to monitor progress.
The theme of the event was ‘Be a Handwashing Hero!’ and attendees were reminded of the simplicity and affordability of handwashing with soap and water. Utsev highlighted the necessity for collaboration among governments, development partners, schools, civil society organizations, the private sector, the media, and community leaders to ensure sustained hygiene practices.
Additional advocacy was made for the establishment of school hygiene clubs, student hygiene champions, and functional handwashing facilities in schools, healthcare facilities, markets, and other public spaces. The national hand hygiene campaign aims to reach about one million Nigerians through both physical and digital initiatives.
A proposed national roundtable is expected to facilitate the sharing of experiences, showcase innovations, and reinforce commitments to improving hygiene practices. Young people were encouraged to practice regular handwashing and promote cleanliness in their communities.
In his welcome address, Mr. Habu Jamilu, representing Mr. Dallah, stressed the importance of moving from awareness to practical action, calling for functional handwashing facilities and the availability of clean water and soap across various public and private spaces.
The Etsu Kwali, Luka Nizasan III, and other officials urged the provision of handwashing facilities in households, schools, markets, and offices, while also promoting proper hygiene practices through community leaders.
The event, which was supported by organizations like UNICEF and the FCT Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, featured activities including the induction of peer hygiene advocates, drama presentations, a symbolic handwashing exercise, and an exhibition of handwashing solutions.