In an insightful discussion about hand hygiene and health practices in Nigeria, we had the opportunity to speak with Mary Nnah from Dettol, the nation’s leading hygiene brand.
As part of their initiatives for the 2024 Global Handwashing Day, Dettol has joined forces with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Wellbeing Foundation Africa, and beneficiaries of their WASH Access Accelerator program, including Kiddies ‘n’ Brands and Alora Pads. This collaboration aims to tackle the pressing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) issues facing Nigeria while also enhancing hygiene education nationwide.
Cassandra Uzo-Ogbugh, who leads External Affairs and Partnerships for Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, shared her insights, stating, “At Dettol, we believe clean hands are the first line of defense against preventable diseases.” Notably, since 2021, Dettol has reached over 300,000 people through its Hygiene Quest Curriculum, which educates schoolchildren, community members, as well as pregnant and lactating mothers within healthcare settings.
Their partnership with the Wellbeing Foundation Africa has further extended hygiene education into Lagos, Abuja, and Kwara states, reflecting a holistic approach to public health.
The significance of hand hygiene was also highlighted by Honourable Minister Joseph Terlumun Utsev, represented by Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry. He emphasized its critical role in disease prevention and promoting overall public health.
HRM Olori Adeola Agunbiade, representing Wellbeing Foundation Africa’s Founder and President, Her Excellency Toyin Ojora Saraki, noted, “Our collaboration with Dettol has allowed us to extend our reach and work towards achieving SDG3, SDG6, and SDG17,” underlining the shared commitment to sustainable development goals within the framework of public health.
