The Ogun State Government has validated and adopted a new Infection Prevention and Control Manual as part of its efforts to improve patient safety, enhance healthcare workers’ protection, and standardise infection control practices across all health facilities in the state.
Speaking at a one-day validation and dissemination event in Abeokuta, the state capital, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, according to a statement on Thursday, described the manual as a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and safeguarding the well-being of residents.
Coker said the document reflects the government’s resolve to institutionalise evidence-based practices, noting that strong infection control systems are critical to preventing avoidable infections, ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services, and improving outbreak preparedness.
She stated, “Events in recent years—from the COVID-19 pandemic to recurring outbreaks of Lassa fever, cholera, mpox, and other infectious diseases—have reinforced the reality that robust IPC systems are not optional. They are fundamental to the survival and effectiveness of the entire health sector.
“That is why we have worked assiduously with our partners to develop this manual. It will serve as a uniform reference document for training, supportive supervision, and audits across public and private health facilities.”
The commissioner explained that the manual provides practical, step-by-step guidance for healthcare workers on standard precautions, environmental hygiene, waste management, safe injection practices, and surveillance of healthcare-associated infections.
In a goodwill message, the Regional Technical Coordinator of the African Field Epidemiology Network, Dr Patrick Nguku, commended the state government for prioritising safer healthcare environments.
Nguku, represented by an epidemiologist, Dr Elizabeth Adedire, said the adoption of the manual demonstrates leadership and commitment to equipping health workers with clear, evidence-based infection control guidelines.
She emphasised that the IPC document offers uniform guidance and serves as a practical handbook for procedures such as hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and isolation protocols. She added that the manual aligns local practices with national and international standards, including WHO recommendations.
Representatives of other development partners—including the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the World Health Organisation, and APIN Public Health Initiatives—also pledged technical support to ensure the manual achieves its objectives.
The state of health worker safety in Nigeria remains poor, with hazards such as work-related stress, needle-stick injuries, and physical or verbal assault still widespread.
Identified gaps include inadequate infrastructure, insufficient PPE, and low adherence to safety protocols.
Despite basic awareness, many health workers are still not adequately protected, posing risks to both their well-being and the quality of care delivered.
