Reckitt receives Recognition Award from the Federal Government for dedication to Championing Hygiene in Nigeria

Reckitt, a global leader in hygiene, health, and nutrition, has been honoured for its outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. The prestigious award was presented by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, on behalf of the Minister, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, during the 2024 Global Handwashing Day Federal Government commemoration event in Abuja on 15th October 2024.

This recognition highlights Reckitt’s partnership with the Ministry in advocating for good hygiene practices in the country. Their impactful WASH initiatives, particularly through its flagship brands, Dettol and Harpic. In 2024, Dettol’s Hygiene Quest program directly engaged over 250,000 individuals—including school children, pregnant and lactating mothers, and community members—while indirectly reaching an additional 2 million people. The program has played a pivotal role in promoting life-saving handwashing practices across Nigeria, aligning with global efforts to combat preventable diseases. Since 2013, Dettol has directly educated over 6 million children and 4 million mothers with Its hygiene education programs.

On the sanitation front, Harpic, Nigeria’s leading toilet cleaning brand, has been a key player in advocating for improved sanitation practices. In line with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which aims to ensure access to safe water and sanitation for all by 2030, Harpic has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, and the Lagos State Ministry of Environment on global advocacy programs such as the “World Toilet Day” to raise awareness on the negative impact of Open defecation, and collaborates on awareness initiatives in key regions across Nigeria to address the global sanitation crisis.

Speaking on the recognition, Cassandra Uzo-Ogbugh, Head of External Affairs, Media and Partnerships at Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, said, “This award speaks to the incredible work Reckitt has done in Nigeria to improve hygiene practices, especially in underserved communities. We are honoured to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and our partners in this vital mission. Every effort to instil proper hygiene and sanitation habits is a step towards a healthier Nigeria.”

Reckitt’s holistic approach to hygiene and sanitation, through its trusted brands Dettol and Harpic, continues to make significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s WASH challenges. As the company remains committed to fostering a healthier, cleaner nation, this award serves as both an acknowledgement of its past achievements and a motivation for future efforts. Together with its partners, Reckitt envisions a future where access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene education becomes a reality for every Nigerian.