Abuja PHCs Lack Snake Antivenom Amid FCTA Claims

Despite claims made by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on February 3, 2026, that snake antivenom is available across public health facilities in Abuja, investigations reveal a significant lack of this life-saving treatment in several primary healthcare centers in the Bwari Area Council. Dr. Adedolapo Fasaw, from the FCT Health Services Environment Secretariat, noted that while antivenom is available in FCTA-owned hospitals, it is not present in many primary healthcare centers.

Following the death of singer Ifunanya Nwagen, who suffered a snakebite, the issue of antivenom availability has come under scrutiny. Reports from various healthcare facilities, including PHC Ushafa and PHC Kubwa, confirm that they do not have antivenom in stock.

Patients suffering from snakebites are often referred to higher-level facilities, which can be far away, complicating emergency responses. Dr. Georg Ebong emphasized the need for proper distribution and availability of antivenom in primary healthcare centers to address this public health concern.