By Eunice Orike
Sixteen students from eight schools in Gwagwalada Area Council of the federal capital territory FCT, has been inducted as Hygiene Quest Ambassadors, tasked with championing cleaner habits and healthier living among their peers.
The initiative, driven by the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) in partnership with Reckitt Nigeria through the Dettol Hygiene Quest Programme, was unveiled at a workshop in Gwagwalada.
A statement by the digital communications and design manager of the foundation, Daniel Enebe, explained that the induction, attended by eight schools from across the council, marks a significant step in advancing hygiene education and sustainable behavioural change among children and young people in the area.
Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of WBFA’s Director of Programming and Reporting, Dr. Osinachi Onyeziri, the State Programme Lead for Abuja, Mr. Kelvin Agagbe, highlighted the long-term value of the initiative.
“The Hygiene Quest Ambassadors Programme is designed to ensure that young people are not just learning about hygiene in classrooms, but are also empowered to lead by example in their schools and communities.
“By placing students in positions of leadership, we are equipping them with the skills and responsibility to influence positive behaviour among their peers and within their households”, he said.
Dr Osinachi also stressed that ambassadors will drive a culture of improved hygiene practices that will reduce preventable illnesses, improve attendance in schools, and strengthen the health of the communities in Gwagwalada and beyond.
In her goodwill message, front desk officer for sports and youth development at the Gwagwalada area council Mrs. Sarah Danladi, commended the programme for its visible impact.
“I have personally witnessed Hygiene Quest classes and received encouraging reports from schools, showing how much students are already improving their hygiene practices. The change is evident, and it is remarkable to see how this programme is shaping healthier behaviours among children. I sincerely appreciate the Wellbeing Foundation Africa and Dettol Nigeria for bringing such an impactful initiative to Gwagwalada”, she said.
Addressing the students,head of the department of training for Gwagwalada area council, Mr. Bako Sunday, urged the newly inducted ambassadors to take their responsibilities seriously.
“As Hygiene Quest Ambassadors, you are expected to go beyond personal practice to become advocates of hygiene for your families, schools, and communities. The lessons you carry forward from this programme will not only protect your own health but will also contribute to building a healthier Gwagwalada. I encourage you to remain committed to this responsibility and to uphold the values of personal and environmental hygiene in all you do”, Sunday said.
The event also featured a spelling bee competition, which added an engaging dimension to the day’s activities. LEA Agwan Dodo emerged as the winner in the primary school category, while JSS Agwan Dodo triumphed in the secondary school category.
Highlights of the event was the reflections from teachers, who shared their appreciation for the initiative and pledged to make the Hygiene Quest Clubs fully functional and sustainable within their schools.
The induction of the Hygiene Quest Ambassadors in Gwagwalada Area Council builds upon the broader mission of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa and Dettol Nigeria to cultivate a generation of hygiene-conscious children, ensuring healthier schools and stronger community outcomes across Nigeria.
