From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
102 pupils have been inducted as Hygiene Quest Ambassadors, in Ilorin South, by the Well Being Foundation Africa (WBFA), in partnership with Dettol, with a charge to champion cleanliness and healthy practices in their schools and communities.
Speaking at the induction ceremony in Ilorin, WBFA’s Director of Programming and Reporting, Dr Osinachi Onyeoziri, represented by the organisation’s National Programmes Manager, Mr Kehinde Akinsola, said the initiative was designed to instill a lasting culture of hygiene among young learners.
“Together, we are nurturing a culture of hygiene and health that will ripple outwards, touching lives and safeguarding futures. You are not just participants, you are leaders, innovators, and changemakers,” he said.
He explained that Hygiene Quest Clubs were being established in schools to sustain the campaign beyond one-off workshops, with the newly inducted ambassadors expected to lead handwashing demonstrations, hygiene campaigns, and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) activities.
Related News
Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, represented by the UNESCO Desk Officer, Mr Taye Odedeji, commended WBFA and Dettol for their commitment to improving school health, stressing that the ministry would monitor the continuity of the programme.
“Judging by the number of students already inducted across various local governments, WBFA and Dettol have done a great job. The impact should be felt across all schools,” he said.
Also speaking, the Education Secretary for Ilorin South Local Government, Mr Ibrahim Ahmed, said handwashing remained one of the simplest ways to prevent diseases, urging the ambassadors to spread the message of hygiene to their peers and families.
Chairman of the Kwara Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Shehu Adaramaja, represented by Mr Adebimpe Idiagbon, Director of Quality Assurance, noted that the initiative would reduce absenteeism in schools by tackling preventable illnesses.
The programme also featured a spelling bee competition, where winners from both primary and secondary schools emerged and will represent Ilorin South in the state finals.
As part of the event, 51 schools received handwashing workstations to strengthen hygiene practices through their health clubs.
