WHO donates Eight emergency response vehicles to FCT

ABUJA , NIGERIA — In a significant boost to Nigeria’s emergency health infrastructure, the World Health Organization (WHO) has donated eight emergency utility vehicles to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) as part of efforts to enhance rapid response capabilities in Abuja.

The handover ceremony, held under the WHO-led Avoca Surge flagship initiative, underscores the organization’s commitment to strengthening health security and emergency preparedness in Nigeria. The Avoca Surge initiative is a collaborative effort between the WHO African Region and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), aimed at establishing a trained, multidisciplinary national workforce capable of responding to public health emergencies within 24 hours.

Speaking at the event, WHO Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo, described the donation as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s emergency response system. “This gesture is more than symbolic. It supports critical areas such as emergency operations, logistics, risk communication, and workforce development,” Dr. Mulombo said.

He commended the FCT’s rapid response to recent public health threats, notably the swift containment of a diphtheria outbreak, crediting strong leadership under Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environmental Secretariat.

Dr. Mulombo also reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to ongoing support, including technical and logistical assistance, noting that similar interventions are planned for five other pilot states across the country.

In her remarks, Dr. Fasawe emphasized the vital role of continuous disease surveillance and preparedness, stating that effective response goes beyond emergency activation and requires coordinated teamwork and tested protocols. “Surveillance is the backbone of public health—essential for early detection and swift intervention,” she said.

Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr. Jide Idris, echoed the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing current health security challenges. With Nigeria currently managing eight public health emergencies, Dr. Idris highlighted ongoing constraints such as limited resources and workforce shortages but praised the WHO and Africa CDC for their continued support through surge staffing and technical assistance.

The vehicle donation marks a critical step in advancing Nigeria’s ability to swiftly and effectively respond to health crises, reinforcing the nation’s resilience against emerging public health threats.

By Taiwo Olatinwo/ May 7, 2025