The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has pledged to strengthen healthcare responses and preventive measures following the death of Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who died from complications linked to a snakebite.
In a statement released on Monday, the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, expressed condolences to the victim’s family, describing the incident as a medically preventable loss that underscores the urgency of improved public health interventions.
Dr. Fasawe noted that snakebites remain a major but largely preventable health concern in Nigeria, where venomous species such as cobras, vipers and puff adders are common. Residents were urged to adopt safety measures including wearing protective clothing in farms and grassy areas, clearing surroundings of debris, sealing home entry points and avoiding contact with snakes.
She emphasized that all snakebites should be treated as venomous until confirmed otherwise.
Proper first aid includes staying calm, immobilizing the affected limb, cleaning the wound gently and seeking immediate medical attention. Harmful practices such as cutting the wound, applying tourniquets, ice, or herbal remedies were strongly discouraged.
The FCTA reassured residents that antivenom is readily available in public hospitals, centrally stored and carefully managed to maintain quality and cold-chain standards. Stocking is guided by collaboration with veterinary experts to match local snake species.
To improve emergency response, the administration recently deployed 12 new ambulances and expanded road networks to reduce evacuation times. Hospitals across the FCT are equipped to provide antivenom treatment, intensive care and supportive services where needed.
Dr. Fasawe also warned that healthcare facilities must strictly follow approved clinical protocols, adding that monitoring will be intensified and negligence sanctioned.
Residents experiencing snakebite emergencies were advised to contact FCT Emergency Medical Services at 090157892931 or 090157892932.
The FCTA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening emergency systems, enforcing healthcare standards, and protecting lives across the territory.
