By Favour Ulebor

Abuja— In a groundbreaking move to strengthen environmental and public health systems in Nigeria, the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) has signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with key stakeholders.

The agreements, aimed at addressing capacity gaps, fostering research, and streamlining professional development, signal a transformative step in environmental health regulation and practice in the country.

During the signing ceremony in Abuja, EHCON Registrar Yakubu Mohammed Baba emphasized the strategic importance of the partnerships.

He explained that the MOUs were designed to promote innovation, bridge critical capacity gaps, and equip professionals with the tools to tackle emerging environmental health challenges.

“We are happy to sign an MOU with the research, development, and innovation arm of the profession.

“No profession can thrive without research and capacity building. This collaboration will provide the resources and manpower needed to elevate environmental health in Nigeria.” Baba said.

Baba further highlighted the need for research-driven solutions to address pressing issues such as healthcare waste management, pest control, and environmental impact assessments.

“We will be challenging the society to provide scientifically proven solutions to emerging issues affecting environmental and public health,” he added.

He noted that EHCON’s mandate, recently expanded through legislative amendments, now extends beyond regulating environmental health officers to include private practitioners in waste management, cleaning services, pest control, and health impact assessments.

One of the MOUs, signed with the West African Health Examination Board (WAHEB), aims to simplify and harmonize the examination and indexing processes for students pursuing careers in environmental health.

Baba explained that the agreement would eliminate the duplication of indexing services, which previously required students to register with both WAHEB and EHCON.

“This new collaboration reduces financial burdens on students and ensures a seamless process for indexing and examinations.

“It aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who emphasizes inter-agency collaboration for efficiency and growth.” He said.

WAHEB Registrar, Oladejo Bola, commended the partnership, describing it as a milestone in professional development.

“This agreement enhances capacity building and ensures focused training for environmental health officers across the country.

“It fosters a collaborative effort between WAHEB, EHCON, and training institutions to produce a competent workforce for Nigeria’s public health sector.” He said.

The leading expert in public and environmental health, Prof. Agwu Amadi, praised the initiative for prioritizing research and professional development.

“Without robust research, no profession can grow,” he said. “Environmental and public health are vast areas, and collaboration among professionals, researchers, and consultants is essential for improving the well-being of Nigerians.”

He called on practitioners and stakeholders to contribute to research and information dissemination to tackle pressing environmental health issues effectively.