In line with the recommendation of the International Health Regulations (IAR 2005) that countries establish a robust chemical surveillance system, the Federal Government has launched the National Guidelines on Chemical Event Surveillance (NGCES) in Nigeria to forestall incidences of pollution and epidemics.
The unveiling ceremony was held in Abuja on Monday.
Speaking about the development, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate stated that the
guidelines represent a proactive step to improving the score and strengthening national security, health, safety and environmental protection.
Represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, Pate informed that the document was a framework built on evidence aligned with global standards and adapted for our local context.
According to him, the guideline “empowers public health professionals, environmental agencies, test responders and communities with clear protocols for detection, reporting, response and mitigation of chemical events.
“Furthermore, these guidelines serve as the foundation for future advancement in chemical event surveillance. By fostering research, innovation and continuous improvement, Nigeria can develop a more resilient public health system that effectively addresses emerging chemical threats.
“And while we’re doing that, it will equally strengthen data collection, analysis and dissemination mechanisms which are key to driving evidence-based making and improving health outcomes nationwide”, he said.
Prof. Pate noted that the guidelines align with the One Health approach and were designed to work in synergy with existing systems such as the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response, National Environmental Health Surveillance System, the Surveillance Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System among others.
“Let this guideline serve as our compass, guiding us towards a Nigeria where chemical safety is not an aspiration but a standard. Let’s build resilience, responsiveness and a future where health security is robust and inclusive. Together, let us uphold the principles of vigilance, action and accountability”, he said.
On his part, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal stated that the launch was a testament to the power of interministerial collaboration.
“Chemicals while indispensable for modern life and economic development, if not properly managed can pose significant risk to both the environment and human health. The Ministry has put in place the national policy on chemical management to provide proper guide for sound management of chemicals in the country”, he said.
Lawal who was represented by Deputy Director, Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Mrs Omotunde Adeola said environmental contaminants from chemical pollution translate directly into severe health consequences for the nation’s citizens.
“Exposure to harmful chemicals can lead to various health issues including respiratory diseases, neurological disorder, reproductive problems, various forms of cancer and developmental delay in children.
“It is our duty therefore to proactively monitor and manage chemicals to prevent this adverse effect and safeguard the well being of the present and future generation”, he said.
In his goodwill message, the Registrar, Institute Of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria, Jwalshik Wilford maintained that with the National Guidelines on Chemical Event Surveillance in Nigeria, chemical management will be effective and if chemical management is effective, public health and environmental protection will be enhanced.
