By Esther Ososanya
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to begin compulsory hepatitis screening for food handlers in Abuja. The move targets vendors in restaurants, markets, bakeries, and canteens.
This initiative aims to prevent the spread of hepatitis and foodborne illnesses in the capital. It will also boost consumer confidence in the city’s fast-growing food industry.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike revealed the plan in his message marking World Hepatitis Day 2025. He called food handlers “essential public health stewards” whose hygiene practices can protect thousands of lives. The Minister’s message was delivered by Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment.
According to her, hepatitis A and E, often spread through contaminated food or water, pose a growing threat. She added that hepatitis B and C, which spread through blood and body fluids, remain a serious concern, especially in food businesses with poor hygiene or open wounds.
“Food handlers are not just service providers. They play a vital role in public health. Simple hygiene routines can prevent the spread of hepatitis,” Dr. Fasawe said.
Private Sector Partnership for Public Health
The screening program will run under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The FCTA believes this model will ensure quality service, proper funding, and strong technical support.
The package includes:
- Mandatory hepatitis B and C testing for all food handlers
- Free hepatitis B vaccines at public health centres
- Food safety training with a focus on hepatitis awareness
- Stricter licensing, hygiene checks, and medical screening
Tackling Stigma and Raising Awareness
The FCTA also wants to reduce the stigma around hepatitis. The campaign will raise awareness and promote voluntary screening and treatment.
Stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare workers, and food business owners, are urged to support the effort. The goal is to make Abuja a model city for safe, healthy, and accountable food services.
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“Hygiene cannot wait. Screening cannot wait. Action cannot wait. Together, let’s make Abuja a leader in food safety,” Wike stated.
A City Under Pressure
Abuja’s rapid growth has led to a boom in informal food businesses. Many food handlers operate without proper training or health checks. Experts warn that this could increase disease outbreaks if not controlled.
The new screening initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National Policy on Food Safety and Quality. The FCTA says it hopes this program will set the standard for other Nigerian cities.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
