The Registrar of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), Dr. Yakubu Mohammed Baba, represented by San. Victor Eborh Uguru has flagged off a two-day training programme for Environmental Health Officers on the control of reptiles and venomous arthropods in homes and offices.
The training commenced on the 14th October 2026 at the EHCON resource centre, Gwarinpa Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Registrar in a welcome address, He appreciated the support for the initiative “noting that the training would focus on practical demonstrations and real-life applications to strengthen participants’ professional skills.”
He welcomed participants joining physically and online and encouraged them to actively participate in the sessions and share knowledge and experiences.
The Director, Sammy Roy management academy, highlighted the safety risks associated with pest-related incidents, including bites, medical emergencies and psychological distress. He stressed the need for effective prevention and control measures in homes, schools, offices and other facilities.
He noted that, The two-day programme aims to equip Environmental Health Officers with practical skills for identifying, preventing and responding safely to encounters with dangerous species, while promoting responsible pest management and environmental safety.
The managing director, Gold spring outsourcing Ltd. PCO. Jeremiah ubah, A keynote speaker, buttressed environmental management as a key strategy for preventing snake encounters. He recommended proper waste disposal, vegetation control, drainage maintenance and the removal of potential hiding places around buildings.
Furthermore, Uba advised the public to avoid handling or attempting to kill snakes and instead contacted, trained wildlife handlers or qualified pest management professionals for assistance.
The event continued with physical training and presentations by facilitators to equip EHOs with practical knowledge of reptiles and arthropods control.
Hauwa Bala
Head, Information &PR Division
