Federal Government Urges States to Enhance Hand Hygiene

On October 15, 2026, during the 2026 Global Handwashing Day celebration at Kwali Area Council, Abuja, the Federal Government called on states to develop and implement concrete hand hygiene action plans within six months. Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, represented by Engr. Ali Ibrahim Dallah, emphasized that handwashing with soap and water is a vital method to prevent diseases such as cholera.

He urged states to identify at least one practical hand hygiene intervention, ensuring clear responsibilities and adequate resources. The Minister advocated for collaboration among various stakeholders, including schools and civil society, to promote sustainable hygiene practices.

He also encouraged the establishment of school hygiene clubs and the provision of handwashing facilities in public areas. The planned national hand hygiene campaign aims to reach about one million Nigerians.

Utsev urged citizens to adopt regular handwashing as a daily habit, stating, “Be a Handwashing Hero, not only today, but every day!”.