EHCON Signs Landmark MOUs To Enhance Environmental Health In Nigeria

Speaking during the signing ceremony, in Abuja Nigeria’s capital the Registrar EHCON Dr Yakubu Baba stated that the MOUs were strategically designed to bridge capacity gaps within the profession and promote innovation.

The Registrar, also noted that the agreements mark a new phase in environmental health regulation and capacity building in the country.

“No profession can thrive without research and capacity building. The society will provide resources and manpower to help move environmental health to a new level.”  Baba said

He further explained that emerging challenges in environmental health require scientifically proven, research-based solutions.

“We will be challenging the society to provide solutions to emerging issues such as healthcare waste management, pest control, and environmental impact assessments.”  He said.

Baba also highlighted that EHCON’s new mandate, following recent amendments, extends beyond the regulation of environmental health officers to include private practitioners in key areas like waste management, cleaning services, pest control, and health impact assessments.

On the second MOU signed with the West African Health Examination Board (WAHEB), Baba noted that the agreement would streamline examinations and indexing processes for students.

He explained that previously, students faced duplication of services, having to index with both WAHEB and EHCON.

“This collaboration will eliminate unnecessary duplication and reduce financial burdens on students. It is in line with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who advocates for collaboration between agencies for efficiency and growth,” he added.

The Registrar, West African  Health Examination Board, WAHEB, Mrs Oladejo Bola, commended the partnership, describing it as a milestone in professional development for environmental health officers.

She further noted that the MOU aims to harmonize efforts between WAHEB, EHCON, and training institutions to produce a well-trained and properly monitored workforce in Nigeria’s public health sector.

“This agreement enhances capacity building and ensures focused professional training nationwide,” she said.

A leading expert in public and environmental health, Prof. Agwu Amadi, commended the collaboration for its focus on research and capacity building.

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

He said “Without robust research, no profession can grow, Environmental and public health are vast areas, and we encourage collaboration among professionals, researchers, and consultants to improve the well-being of Nigerians.”  

Signing of the three MOU was between The Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) and Societal for Environmental Health and Public Health of Nigeria, Environmental Health and Public Health Association of Nigeria, and West African Health Examination Board. (WAHEB.)

The signing ceremony concluded with a strong commitment from all parties to implement the MOUs fully, ensuring long-term benefits for environmental health practice, professional development, and public safety in Nigeria.