Dare Babalola
The Ogun State Government has launched a new infection prevention and control manual aimed at boosting safety standards across the state, marking a proactive step to strengthen measures against infectious diseases in healthcare facilities and public institutions.
At a one-day validation and dissemination event in Abeokuta, Ogun State’s Health Commissioner, Dr Tomi Coker, hailed the new manual as a major milestone in the state’s push to boost healthcare delivery and protect residents’ well-being, according to a Thursday statement.
According to the commissioner, the document reflects the government’s resolve to institutionalise evidence-based practices, noting that strong infection control systems are critical to preventing avoidable infections, ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services, and improving outbreak preparedness.
She stated, “Events in recent years—from the COVID-19 pandemic to recurring outbreaks of Lassa fever, cholera, mpox, and other infectious diseases—have reinforced the reality that robust IPC systems are not optional. They are fundamental to the survival and effectiveness of the entire health sector.
“That is why we have worked assiduously with our partners to develop this manual. It will serve as a uniform reference document for training, supportive supervision, and audits across public and private health facilities.”
Explaining the manual’s contents, the commissioner said it equips healthcare workers with practical steps for maintaining standard precautions, ensuring environmental hygiene, managing waste, practicing safe injections, and conducting surveillance on healthcare-linked infections.
The Regional Technical Coordinator of the African Field Epidemiology Network, Dr Patrick Nguku, conveyed goodwill and applauded the state government for focusing on safer healthcare environments.
Nguku, represented by an epidemiologist, Dr Elizabeth Adedire, said the adoption of the manual demonstrates leadership and commitment to equipping health workers with clear, evidence-based infection control guidelines.
She emphasised that the IPC document offers uniform guidance and serves as a practical handbook for procedures such as hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and isolation protocols. She added that the manual aligns local practices with national and international standards, including WHO recommendations.
Representatives of other development partners—including the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the World Health Organisation, and APIN Public Health Initiatives—also pledged technical support to ensure the manual achieves its objectives.
The state of health worker safety in Nigeria remains poor, with hazards such as work-related stress, needle-stick injuries, and physical or verbal assault still widespread.
Identified gaps include inadequate infrastructure, insufficient PPE, and low adherence to safety protocols.
Despite basic awareness, many health workers are still not adequately protected, posing risks to both their well-being and the quality of care delivered.
