FCTA Adopts Four National Health Policies to Boost Grassroots Healthcare
The Federal Capital Territory Administration has officially adopted four national health policies to improve healthcare delivery and environmental protection at the grassroots level.
The policies, adopted during a meeting at the Public Health Emergency Operation Centre on June 4, 2025, include the Revised National Policy on Food Safety and Quality (2023), National Integrated Guidelines for Foodborne Disease Surveillance, Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP 3.0), and Climate Change Health National Adaptation Plan.
HSES Permanent Secretary Dr. Babagana Adam said the policies will help FCTA address growing public health threats from unregulated food vendors and eateries across the city and rural areas. “Food safety is not just a matter of hygiene but of national security and public trust,” he stated.
Director of Public Health Dr. Dan Gadzama explained the key changes: mental health services will now be integrated into community and primary healthcare systems instead of being limited to secondary and tertiary facilities. The food safety policy introduces standardized testing protocols requiring stool microscopy, Hepatitis A screening, and compulsory vaccination for all food handlers.
The climate change policy addresses the potential 21% increase in disease burden, with provisions expected in the 2025 FCT budget. Mental health conditions are also expected to rise due to climate-related psychological stress.
The adoption follows resolutions from the 65th National Council on Health meeting and aligns with WHO global action plans.
