The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has vowed to tackle the growing menace of snakebite-related deaths, assuring residents of ready antivenom, faster emergency response, and stricter healthcare standards across the territory.
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja while expressing condolences to the family of Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who tragically died from neurotoxic complications caused by a snakebite.
Describing the death as “deeply painful and preventable,” Fasawe said snakebites remain a major public health threat that can be mitigated with awareness, proper first aid, and prompt medical intervention.
She warned that Nigeria is home to highly venomous snakes including cobras, vipers, and puff adders, urging FCT residents to adopt preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing on farms, avoiding tall grasses and dark areas at night, clearing debris around homes, sealing entry points, and never handling snakes.
Fasawe also outlined the correct first-aid measures for snakebite victims: stay calm, immobilise the affected limb below heart level, remove constrictive items, gently clean the wound, and rush to a hospital for antivenom. She cautioned against dangerous practices such as cutting or sucking the wound, applying tourniquets, ice, or herbal remedies.
On treatment and emergency care, Fasawe assured that polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms are readily available in all FCTA-owned hospitals and health facilities, centrally stored at Abuja Central Medical Stores, and managed to ensure quality and cold-chain integrity.
Prompt treatment is critical, she said, noting that antivenom is most effective when administered early, while late intervention after neurotoxic symptoms appear may not guarantee recovery.
To improve response time, the FCTA has expanded road networks and deployed 12 ambulances fully equipped for emergencies. Hospitals in the territory also provide comprehensive snakebite management including antivenom administration, patient monitoring, supportive care, intensive care, airway management, blood transfusions, and coagulation monitoring where needed.
Fasawe further warned that all public and private healthcare facilities must strictly follow approved clinical protocols, emphasizing that negligent facilities would face sanctions.
Residents are advised to contact the FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services via 090157892931 or 090157892932 during emergencies.
“The FCTA remains resolute in strengthening emergency systems, enforcing quality healthcare standards, and protecting the lives of all residents of the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.
