BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
Given the escalating climate crisis, deforestation and pollution, President Bola Tinubu has pledged more investment in sustainable environmental solutions.
This was even as the President harped on the need to embrace innovations and collaborate with stakeholders toward safeguarding the environment and public health sectors for future generations.
He stated this on Tuesday at the maiden edition of the National Environment Health Excellence Award (NEHEA), organised by the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) in Abuja.
News Rider reports that President Tinubu was conferred as the Grand Patron of the National Environment and Public Health Association of Nigeria (NEPHAN) and Life Fellow of the Society for Environmental and Public Health of Nigeria (SEPHON).
The award was focused on both public and private sectors of the Nigerian economy, as well as for individuals and corporate Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in the delivery and support of environmental health services and practice in Nigeria.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. George Akume, the President noted that he was excited to accept the Environmental Health Leadership Excellence Award 2025.
"This accolade belongs not to me alone but to every stakeholder, government agencies, health professionals, civil society, and private sector partners, who have laboured tirelessly to embed sustainability into Nigeria’s development blueprint.
"Today is significant, as it celebrates individual achievements and serves as a testament to the collective strides we have made as a nation in strengthening environmental health governance," he added.
The President enjoined Nigerians to be committed in improving the environment and public health space.
He pointed out that the event was not merely a recognition of individual excellence but also a testament to the collective resolve to forge a Nigeria where clean air, safe water, and sustainable practices are the birthright of every citizen.
Tinubu said: "We shall continue to push the boundaries of what is possible to improve our environment and public health.
"My appointment as Grand Patron of the National Environment and Public Health Association of Nigeria (NEPHAN) and the title of ‘Life Fellow’ of the Society for Environmental and Public Health of Nigeria (SEPHON) are dual callings.
"They compel me to redouble my commitment to safeguarding our environment and championing policies prioritizing both people and the planet.
“I congratulate the Environmental Health Officers Registration Council of Nigeria (EHCON) for organizing this event."
Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Lawal hinted that Nigeria is positioning itself among global leaders in environmental health stewardship.
He informed that Nigeria has recorded significant achievements in enhancing environmental sanitation, enforcing regulations against hazardous waste, and promoting sustainable practices in industries and communities.
"As we have seen, this administration has recorded significant success in fostering a cleaner and healthier environment through policies that promote renewable energy, waste management, air and water quality standards, and enhanced public health initiatives.
"However, more work needs to be done. We must continue to build partnerships, encourage private sector involvement, and enhance the capacity of our environmental health professionals," he said.
The minister pleaded with environmental health practitioners to utilise the opportunities provided by the government through agencies like EHCON to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
Lawal commended the steadfastness and commitment of the APC-led administration in strengthening environmental health policies and frameworks in Nigeria.
He was optimistic that the support of the Federal Government and the exemplary excellence in environmental health made the accomplishments possible.
Lawal congratulated the awardees for being worthy recipients of prestigious award, adding that their commitment to excellence in environmental health would remain indelible and inspirational to all.
He informed the awardees on the need to work as a team and build a healthier and more sustainable nation.
The WHO Country Representative of World Health Organisation, Dr Walter Kazadi Molumbo received the ‘Frontier of Environmental Health’ award, while the WHO National Consultant for Public Health and Environment, Dr Edwin Isotu Edeh received the ‘Pillar of Environmental Health’ in Nigeria award.
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