Public health, environmental safety; FG launches national guidelines for the surveillance of chemical events

Public health, environmental safety; FG launches national guidelines for the surveillance of chemical events

In a reference move to improve the safety of public health and environmental protection, on Monday the Federal Government officially launched the national guidelines for the surveillance of chemical events in Nigeria.

The launch, held in Abuja, was organized by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Wellness and brings Nigeria closer to one step forward to satisfy global standards on chemical safety and surveillance.

Speaking on behalf of the coordinated minister of health and social well -being, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, permanent secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kacholl MNi, described the launch as a “bold step forward” in safeguarding the health of the Nigerians in the midst of an increase in chemical risks.

“This fundamental document represents the culmination of dedication, collaboration and our collective determination to respond effectively to chemical threats, whether accidental, intentional or natural,” said Kachollom. He stressed that Nigeria had scored badly in the external joint evaluation of 2023 (Jee), achieving an “limited capacity” evaluation in detecting and managing chemical events, pushing the need for a structured surveillance response.

The guidelines aim to provide a complete picture for the detection, reporting, response and mitigation of chemical accidents. They align with a health approach and complete existing systems such as the surveillance and response of integrated diseases (IDSR), the national environmental health surveillance system and the response and response analysis system (SARMA) response.

Kachollom has praised all the interested parties involved in the development of the guidelines, observing that it will allow public health workers, environmental agencies, the first rescuers and communities with protocols that can be implemented to mitigate chemical risks.

“This document should not collect dust.” Let it be the compass that guides us towards a safer, smarter and healthier Nigeria, “said Daju Kacholl at closing.

The delivery of messages of goodwill, key ministries and interested parties underlined the urgency of chemical surveillance in several sectors.

The Federal Ministry of the Environment, represented by Mrs. Omotunde Adeola, director of the control of pollution and environmental health, has praised joint collaboration with the Ministry of Health, highlighting the growing risks placed by chemical pollution, from industrial discharges to the disposal of improper waste and its impact on the air, water, soil and human health.