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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The FCT Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to initiate comprehensive hepatitis screening for food handlers operating in restaurants, markets, bakeries and canteens across the territory.
The initiative aims to curb the spread of hepatitis and other food-borne illnesses, ensuring safer food for residents and visitors alike.
It is also aimed at strengthening public health infrastructure and boosting confidence in the local food sector, promising safer dining experiences for the millions who live in and visit the nation’s capital each year.
The announcement was made as part of a goodwill message to mark the World Hepatitis Day 2025, delivered by the Mandate Secretary of Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Adedolapo Fasawe, on behalf of the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike. The message emphasised the urgent need to tackle hepatitis infections caused by poor hygiene practices among food handlers, highlighting the public health risks posed by hepatitis strains predominantly transmitted through contaminated food and blood.
According to a statement by Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the minister, Lere Olayinka, “Hepatitis A and E are primarily spread through contaminated food and water, putting our growing city of Abuja at heightened risk, especially as it continues to attract diverse populations,” Dr. Fasawe said. “At the same time, Hepatitis B and C, which are transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, remain a threat in food environments where hygiene is compromised or open wounds are present.”
Wike described food handlers as “unsung heroes” in the fight against food borne diseases, stressing their vital roles in protecting consumers. “Food handlers are essential guardians of public health,” he stated. “Recognising their pivotal role, the FCT Administration is committed to launching a strategic, comprehensive screening scheme for hepatitis to strengthen food safety standards.”
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The initiative will be rolled out through an innovative Public-Private Partnership (PPP) consortium that combines the technical expertise, resources and efficiency of the private sector with the regulatory oversight of the government.
This collaboration aligns with the National Policy on Food Safety and Quality, ensuring screenings for Hepatitis B and C become a regular, mandatory practice for all food handlers operating within the FCT.
“We are calling on all stakeholders, ranging from the government agencies to the private enterprises and healthcare professionals, to support this vital program,” Dr. Fasawe appealed.
“This support includes promoting free Hepatitis B vaccinations, ensuring adherence to food safety training that includes hepatitis awareness and enforcing hygiene inspections and licensing requirements for food vendors.”
The FCT Administration is also intensifying efforts to reduce stigma and misinformation surrounding hepatitis, advocating for compassionate community engagement.
“We want to break the silence around hepatitis. Safe hygiene practices, timely screening and open discussion can drastically reduce transmission.”
Echoing the call to action, the FCT leadership concluded: “Hygiene cannot wait. Screening cannot wait. Action cannot wait. Together, let Abuja set the standard for a food industry defined by health, safety and excellence.”
