Snakebites: FCTA Assures Residents of Antivenom Availability in All Public Hospitals 

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has assured residents that lifesaving antivenom is available in all FCTA-owned hospitals and public health centres across Abuja. 

This clarification followed the tragic death of singer, Ifunanya Nwangene, which led to public concerns about whether hospitals had access to antivenom for snakebite victims. 

According to the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, residents should remain calm, as the territory currently has enough supplies of both polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms. 

“Different forms and types of anti-snake venom are widely available across FCTA-owned hospitals and public health facilities,” – Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe 

She explained that the antivenoms are selected with the support of veterinary experts who help identify the most common snake species in the FCT. The medicines are stored at the Abuja Central Medical Stores and properly managed to ensure quality and effective cold storage. 

What happened and the hospital’s response 

The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, where the singer was taken, denied claims that antivenom was unavailable. The hospital stated that she was attended to immediately but suffered severe neurotoxic complications from the snakebite. Despite efforts to stabilise her and prepare her for intensive care, her condition suddenly worsened and she could not be revived. 

How residents can prevent snakebites 

Dr. Fasawe described snakebites as a preventable public health problem, noting that dangerous snakes such as cobras, vipers and puff adders are common in both urban and semi-urban parts of the FCT. 

Residents are advised to: 

• Wear protective clothing when farming or walking in tall grass 

• Clear bushes and debris around homes 

• Use light at night and avoid dark corners 

• Seal holes and entry points in houses 

• Never attempt to touch or kill a snake 

What to do immediately after a snakebite 

In case of a bite: 

• Stay calm and keep the affected limb still and below heart level 

• Remove tight clothing, rings or shoes 

• Gently clean the wound 

• Go immediately to the nearest hospital with antivenom 

Dangerous practices such as cutting or sucking the wound, using tourniquets, ice or herbal remedies should be avoided. 

Emergency support and ambulance services 

The FCTA has deployed 12 new ambulances to improve emergency response. Residents can contact the FCT Emergency Medical System on 090157892931 or 090157892932. 

The FCTA has reassured Abuja residents that antivenom is available and emergency systems are being strengthened. However, early hospital treatment and proper first aid remain the most important steps to save lives after a snakebite.