By Saeed Tijjani
The Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria (EHOAN), Kwara State Chapter, has inaugurated its new set of executives, led by Sanitarian Comrade Anwo Abdulquddus Tosin, in an inauguration ceremony described by stakeholders as a glorious rebirth for the profession.
The 7th inauguration Ceremony of the State Executives, held at the Cooperative Hall, Ministry of Health, Ilorin, which drew prominent stakeholders in the health profession featured strong messages of commendation, challenges, and partnership from top government and labour officials.
Speaking at the event, during her opening remarks, the Director of Environment, Ministry of Environment and Forestry Mrs. Mary Mustapha, charged the new executives to maintain unity and professionalism.
The Director charges the new executives to work together in harmony, uphold the ethics of the profession and the good image of the organisation.
She further urged officers to see environmental health as not just a profession but a passion and duty to humanity.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Dr. Abubakar Ayinla, in his goodwill message congratulated the outgoing executives and extended goodwill to the incoming team.
“Record has it that Kwara has been distinguished as the number one in Environmental Health in the whole of Northern Nigeria,” Dr. Ayinla stated.
He attributed this success to the tireless efforts of the officials, adding, that they have been very impactful in the development of Kwara State and Nigeria, while urging them to keep it up and keep doing what they are trained professionally to do.
In a powerful goodwill message, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kwara State, Comrade Sanitarian Muritala Saheed Olayinka, celebrated the end of internal strife within the association.
“This inauguration day stands as a memorable event that symbolises the restoration of peace, love, oneness and togetherness within the profession,” Comrade Olayinka said.
“At a time when this great association almost faded onto extinction, we’re witnessing its rebirth a return to its original vision and purpose.” he continued.
Olayinka called on stakeholders to unite in the new chapter so that EHOAN not only survives but thrives for generations to come.
The Commissioner for Environment and Forestry, Hon. Nafisat Buge Musa, during her remarks extended gratitude to the association, highlighting the ease with which she adapted to the Ministry due to their cooperation and guidance.
She charged the National Office representative, Comrade Dogara Danjuma, to cascade to the National Executive that the Environmental officers in the state are the best as they have always proven to be dedicated, hard working and result oriented.
She concluded by urging the new executives to merge innovation together with professionalism in order to achieve unprecedented achievements.
The Senior Special Assistant on Labour to the Governor, Alhaji Comrade Mumini Abdulkareem Onagun, buttressed the officers’ crucial role in urban development, stating that without environmental health officers in town planning, it’s not complete, because their presence will tell the importance of housing, over population, how to build in a safe environment, how many people should leave in a room, and noise regulations and control.”
“I implore you all to please be diligent in your task, and I feel elated to cascade to you all that the Governor is appreciative of all your good jobs, please keep it up and don’t relent.” he added.
Providing academic context, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Henry O. Sawyer, Director, School of Allied Health and Environmental Science at KWASU, delivered a paper titled: “Environmental Health Profession Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.”
Prof. Sawyer proudly stated that the KWASU institute is the only accredited programme in Environmental health courses across degree, PhD, in Nigeria, urging them to better their profession by enrolling in relevant courses.
He charged the officers to be committed to their job, noting that they are stakeholders in their own right.
Sanitarian Comrade Anwo Abdulquddus Tosin was formally inaugurated as the 7th President, alongside the new executives, by the National Vice President Comrade Dogara Danjuma who earlier commended the branch for taking the bold moves of subscribing to the National body.
Danjuma congratulated the new executives noting that it is now an automatic access for them to participate in National activities. He added that the National leadership is always open to assist and support in all ramifications.
In his address, President Anwo noted that the gathering signifies a renewal of the association’s collective efforts.
“The role of environmental health in public health and sustainable development cannot be overstated. We are the backbone of disease prevention, the guardians of sanitation and the stewards of environmental safety,” he asserted.
“As I assume this position, I pledge to serve with humility, transparency, and dedication.” He added.
Other newly Inaugurated executives include;
* State Vice President: Sanitarian Adedotun David Olusola
* Secretary: Sanitarian Abdullahi Abdulrahsheed
* Treasurer: Sanitarian Isiaka Oluwakemi Bilkisu
* Financial Secretary: Sanitarian Alhaja Rufai Babaita
* Auditor General: Sanitarian Usman Adam
* Women Wing: Sanitarian Eyinwunmi Ajao
* Public Relations Officer: Sanitarian Ashaolu and Sunday Michael.
Other dignitaries who delivered goodwill messages included the State Chairman, Medical & Health Workers Union, Comrade Isaac Bolatito; Acting Head of Service, Dr. Olufunke Mercy Shittu; and General Manager of KWEPA, Jide Aina, among others.
