Health
FG Directs States to Implement Hand Hygiene Plans Within Six Months
The Federal Government has directed states to develop and implement hand hygiene plans within six months to help prevent infectious diseases.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, gave the directive during the 2026 Global Handwashing Day celebration held in Kwali Area Council, Abuja.
Utsev said washing hands with soap and water was a simple and effective way to prevent cholera and other diseases.
He urged each state to identify at least one practical hand hygiene project and ensure its implementation within six months.
The Minister also called for the provision of functional handwashing facilities, clean water and soap in schools, hospitals, markets and other public places.
He said the Federal Government planned to reach about one million Nigerians through physical and digital hand hygiene activities.
Utsev urged young people to practise regular handwashing and encourage others to do the same in their homes, schools and communities.
On his part, the Etsu Kwali, HRH Ayedoo Luka Nizasan III, described handwashing as an important practice for preventing diseases and urged residents to make it part of their daily routine.
Representatives of UNICEF, Kwali Area Council, the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders also called for greater commitment to hand hygiene.
The event featured the induction of hygiene advocates, drama presentations, a symbolic handwashing exercise and an exhibition of handwashing solutions.
The event was held under the theme, “Be a Handwashing Hero!”
