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The Kwara State Government has ordered an immediate statewide anti-snake fumigation exercise across residential buildings, schools, offices, and other regulated premises, following reports of an increase in snakebite incidents in the state.
The directive was issued on Saturday by the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA), which said property owners and operators of regulated facilities are required to comply without delay.
“All regulated premises, institutions, and residential building owners across the state are hereby directed to immediately carry out anti-snake fumigation exercises as part of efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of residents,” said Jide Aina, General Manager of KWEPA.
Aina explained that “the fumigation exercise is a precautionary measure aimed at reducing the presence of snakes around homes, offices, schools, and other regulated premises across Kwara State.”
He also urged residents to maintain proper sanitation and to eliminate overgrown vegetation that could serve as snake habitats.
“Property owners and occupants were further advised to maintain proper sanitation and ensure that waste disposal practices do not create habitats for harmful animals,” he said.
Aina added that environmental safety guidelines must be strictly observed to protect communities.
The government also called on landlords, community leaders, and residents to support the campaign by clearing bushes and other hiding places for reptiles.
KWEPA said it will continue monitoring environmental conditions across the state to safeguard public health and promote environmental sustainability.
The directive follows heightened public concern over snakebite emergencies, caused by the death of 25-year-old singer Ifunanya Nwangene, also known as Nanyah, who died on January 31, 2026, after being bitten by a cobra in her Abuja flat.
Public health advocates have renewed calls for improved access to anti-snake venom in hospitals, noting that delays in treatment often result in preventable deaths.
