Nigeria's Environment Minister Launches Handwashing Campaign

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a nationwide handwashing campaign to address the spread of infectious diseases, including cholera and diphtheria. Environment Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal made this announcement on Monday during the 2026 Global Handwashing Day commemoration in Abuja.

He emphasized that poor hygiene practices expose Nigerians to preventable illnesses and that hand hygiene is essential for public health. Lawal, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Salisu Usman, stated that proper handwashing with soap and clean running water can significantly reduce the transmission of diseases.

The campaign, themed "Be a Handwashing Hero," was held at Police Day Secondary School in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and Nestlé Nigeria Plc. Lawal urged all levels of government, private organizations, and community leaders to work together to enhance access to handwashing facilities and promote hygiene education.

He linked improved hygiene to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to health and sanitation.