The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has assured residents of Abuja that antivenom is fully stocked and readily accessible across all FCTA-owned hospitals and public health centres, following public concern triggered by the reported death of singer Ifunanya Nwangene on Saturday.
In a statement issued by health authorities under the FCTA, the administration emphasized that snakebite management remains a priority within the territory’s public health system. According to officials, all government-owned secondary and tertiary hospitals, as well as designated primary healthcare centres, are equipped with approved antivenom and trained medical personnel to handle snakebite emergencies.
The FCTA explained that antivenom procurement and distribution are coordinated through the Public Health Department, in collaboration with relevant national health agencies, to ensure uninterrupted availability. Regular audits, restocking schedules and emergency response protocols are said to be in place to prevent shortages, especially during peak seasons when snakebite incidents are more common.
Residents were urged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest public health facility in the event of a snakebite, rather than resorting to self-medication or traditional remedies, which often worsen outcomes. Health experts note that early hospital presentation significantly improves survival rates, as delays are a major factor in snakebite-related deaths.
The administration also used the opportunity to reiterate public health safety advice, encouraging residents—particularly those in peri-urban and rural areas—to keep surroundings clean, avoid bushy environments where possible, and promptly report snake encounters to appropriate authorities.
While expressing sympathy over the singer’s death, the FCTA reaffirmed its commitment to preventing avoidable fatalities through sustained investment in emergency care, public awareness, and access to life-saving medications such as antivenom.
