Bukola Afeni
Public health leaders and environmental health stakeholders gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Dr. Edwin Isotu-Edeh at the “40 Shades of Gratitude: 20 Successful Years of Leadership in Public Health and Environmental Leadership” event in Abuja.
The occasion also marked Dr Isotu-Edeh’s 40th birthday, honouring his outstanding contributions to the field of environmental health in Nigeria.
Dr. Isotu-Edeh, a strong advocate of the ‘One Health Approach’ by the World Health Organization, has played a pivotal role in various ministries across Nigeria.
The high and mighty, and some of his mentees graced the occasion to honour Dr Edwin Isotu-Edeh.
The Registrar of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), Dr. Yakubu Mohammed, commended his unwavering passion and dedication to improving environmental health and safety in the country.
He praised Dr. Isotu-Edeh for his role as a bridge builder, fostering collaboration between the ministries of Health, Environment, Water Resources, and Sanitation.
Dr Mohammed said he has brought diverse innovations into the WASH sector.
Speaking about Dr Isotu-Edeh’s impact, Dr Mohammed stated, that he is a trailblazer in the public health and environmental sector.
“He has spearheaded the implementation of the one health approach, contributed to the establishment of the Environmental Health Surveillance System in Nigeria, and promoted sustainable healthcare management.
” He is driving the sector by facilitating cooperation among federal ministries, which is crucial for the full implementation of Executive Order 009 to end open defecation and disease prevention”, he said.
Prof. Andrew Obafemi, a Professor of Geography and Environmental Management at the University of Port Harcourt, acknowledged Dr. Isotu-Edeh’s influence in changing the narrative in the environmental sector.
He encouraged young people to follow his example and pursue careers in environmental health leadership.
While expressing gratitude for the celebration, Dr Isotu-Edeh called on young Nigerians to take an active role in driving positive change.
He emphasized the importance of maximizing the potential of the youth while prioritizing peace, building skills, and strengthening systems to prevent disease outbreaks and environmental crises.
“We must prioritize environmental intelligence and take action before crises escalate. We need to consolidate our efforts and build a better Nigeria, making Africa proud.”
He stressed the need to promote health in all policies and emphasized the ‘one health approach’ as a means to prevent pandemics and ensure environmental sustainability.
Dr Edwin presented awards and recognition to selected individuals and African icons known for their positive leadership and influence in various fields.
“The icons have mentored me in different areas of life. My 40th birthday celebration is an opportunity to appreciate the good works they are rendering to society”, he said.
The Chairman of the Obolo Youth Coalition, Abuja Chapter, Mr Kasam Nteogwuile extended best wishes to Dr Isotu-Edeh for his numerous contributions to improving the health and WASH sector in the country.
The event also featured the announcement of the construction of three sets of 40 public toilets, each consisting of four units, in support of the Clean Nigeria Campaign program to eradicate open defecation.
