The level of insecurity facing health officers while monitoring and enforcing health and hygiene legislations across the country as well as the challenge of being prone to infectious diseases has been described as a national emergency that needs urgent attention from the government at various levels.
National President of the Environmental Health officers association of Nigeria, Jumil Shuaibu made this known during the group’s 54th National Conference held in Calabar.
Also Read: Nasarawa Gov. to build more healthcare centres to meet the people’s needs
Shuaibu said his members are prone to Environmental infectious diseases and hazards while doing their jobs, stating that early attention is required from the government.
Cross River State Chairman of the Association, Simon Obogo called on the State Government to employ more Environmental Health Officers that would be able to prevent health hazards in communities across the State.
On her part, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, represented by Prof Reginald Ejemot assured that the institution will be available to train more health officers on Environmental Health Protection and prevention.
The group which also does investigate when there’s an incident, such as pollution, noise problems, toxic contamination, pest infestation or an outbreak of food poisoning lamented that their take home is nothing compared to their job functions.
Editor: Ena Agbanoma
