The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has assured residents that all hospitals and public health centers managed by the FCTA across Abuja are well stocked with anti-snake venom, dismissing concerns over shortages in health facilities under its control.
The clarification comes in the wake of public reactions following the death of singer Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, amid claims that she was unable to access anti-venom at some hospitals in the territory.
In a statement, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, said the administration maintains sufficient quantities of both polyvalent and multivalent anti-venoms, all of which meet approved quality and safety standards.
She explained that FCTA hospitals and public health centres routinely stock anti-venoms based on expert assessments of snake species commonly found within the FCT.
According to her, veterinary specialists are involved in determining the appropriate types of anti-venom required for effective treatment.
Read Also:
- FCTA, area council workers begin indefinite strike over unpaid entitlements
- FCTA workers to begin indefinite strike on Monday
- FCTA to begin sealing, revoking properties over unpaid fees
Dr. Fasawe noted that all anti-venoms are stored at the Abuja Central Medical Stores, owned and managed by the FCTA, to ensure proper temperature control, quality assurance, and timely distribution to health facilities when needed.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to emergency healthcare, she said significant investments have been made to strengthen response capacity, including the procurement of new ambulances and upgrades to hospital emergency units.
“To enhance emergency response, the FCTA has acquired 12 fully equipped ambulances and improved road access to key medical facilities.
“Our hospitals are capable of administering anti-venom, providing appropriate immobilisation, monitoring for adverse reactions and delivering comprehensive supportive care,” she said.
She added that advanced medical services, such as intensive care admission, airway support, blood transfusion, and coagulation monitoring, are available within FCT hospitals for severe cases.
The mandate secretary warned that health facilities, both public and private, would be held accountable for failure to follow approved emergency treatment protocols.
“All healthcare providers are expected to comply strictly with established clinical guidelines. Monitoring will be intensified, and any form of negligence will attract appropriate sanctions,” she said.
Residents were encouraged to promptly contact emergency services in cases of snakebite or other medical emergencies.
“For immediate assistance, residents should reach the FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services on 090157892931 or 090157892932.
“The FCTA remains committed to improving emergency healthcare delivery and protecting the lives of all residents,” the statement added.
