A National Consultant for Public Health and Environment with the World Health Organisation, Mr Isotu Edeh, has been given the ‘The Pillar of Health’s Award in Nigeria.

The Award ceremony organized by the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) in Abuja had in attendance President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume,

The Council acknowledged him for his over two decades of experience and impact, being an academic in public health, environmental leadership and youth enterprise development, and institutional system-building.
They maintained “As the National Technical Officer leading the Public Health and Environment Programme for the WHO in Nigeria, he spearheads innovative, high-impact climate and environmentally sustainable initiatives to improve health outcomes.”

Another achievement is the coordination of the signing of the first Health Ministerial Commitment in 2021 as well as building a sustainable and climate-resilient health system, in alignment with the Paris Agreement, the United Nations COP26 Health Programme, and Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan 2060.

The Steering Chairman of Sustainable Education and Policy Archiving at the Nigerian Environmental Summit Group (NESUG), Mr Raph Nnam described the recognition as well-deserved, describing him as an exemplary champion and an impact-driven emerging leader in public health and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.

He commended the awardee for his dedication to climate health and sustainability, noting Nigeria needs more visionary professionals like him.

Isotu-Edeh outlined Nigeria’s key environmental challenges, including climate change, deforestation, pollution, and poor waste management, stressing their impact on public health.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration, innovation, and evidence-based interventions in driving meaningful change.

He expressed his appreciation to Dr Walter Molumbo, WHO Country Representative, for his outstanding leadership in promoting a healthier environment in Nigeria.

He also thanked EHCON and all those dedicated to addressing environmental determinants of health, acknowledging their collective efforts in tackling Nigeria’s environmental challenges.

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, said the event celebrated achievements and reaffirmed commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and resilience.

“We celebrate individuals, organisations, and institutions that have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication in promoting environmental health across the country,” he said.

Dr Yakubu Baba, EHCON Registrar, said the award honours individuals and organisations excelling in environmental health services across public and private sectors in Nigeria.