In a move to strengthen emergency preparedness and response in Nigeria, the World Health Organization (WHO) has handed over eight utility vehicles to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
At the ceremony held un Abuja, to mark a major milestone in the ongoing Avoca Surge flagship initiative, the WHO Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo described the move as a significant step in building a robust emergency health response system across the country.
While presenting the vehicles to the FCTA, Dr. Mulombo said the handover aligns with the objectives of the Avoca Surge initiative which was aimed at developing a multidisciplinary, trained, and rapidly deployable national workforce capable of responding to public health emergencies within 24 hours.
“This gesture is more than symbolic. It is a practical investment into emergency operations, logistics, risk communication, and workforce development- four pillars of the Avoca Surge initiative.”
He lauded the FCT’s swift response to recent outbreaks, particularly during the diphtheria outbreak, which was contained within a week through early activation of surge teams and strong leadership under the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environmental Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe.
Molumbo who commenced the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and other development partners for their dedication to health security emphasing the urgent need for preparedness towards emerging public health threats.
“Africa experiences over 100 health emergencies annually, “This initiative ensures that countries like Nigeria can respond rapidly and effectively, minimizing loss of life and maintaining public safety.”
The WHO Representative further reaffirmed its continued support, promising further technical and logistical assistance, and announced that efforts are ongoing to provide similar support to the remaining five pilot states.
While receiving Vehicles, The Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environmental Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe stressed the critical importance of disease surveillance and emergency preparedness in safeguarding public health.
Dr. Fasawe who expressed appreciation to the World Health Organization and other development partners for their support and role in continuous surveillance as well as teamwork.
“I’m very happy the NCDC and ADC are here, Since the onset of this renewed hope administration, we have worked together to quash epidemics using data and technology.”
Also the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr. Jide Idris, who highlighted the importance of partnerships in strengthening Nigeria’s emergency health preparedness and response capacity, explained that health security was a broad and vital mandate that required robust surveillance, data tracking, timely response, and the deployment of trained personnel across the country.
