Abuja, Nigeria - October 15, 2025 5AMAS Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has stressed the need for effective handwashing and hygiene promotion to stop the spread of diseases. The foundation made the call during a sensitisation exercise at the Jabi Central Motor Park, Abuja, to mark the 2025 Global Handwashing Day themed “Clean Hands Are Within Reach.” Ms Blessing Geoffrey, the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Consultant of the foundation, said handwashing with soap and water remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent diseases. “When we talk about handwashing, it’s not just about washing the hands, but promoting hygiene in general — hand, food, personal, and menstrual hygiene,” she said. She said the foundation chose the park because it is a public space with travellers and food vendors from across Nigeria. “We are here to sensitise food vendors, travellers, and park users. This message of hygiene promotion will go a long way in reducing disease transmission,” she said. She added that the foundation provided handwashing facilities, soap, and liquid wash produced by 5AMAS Foundation to demonstrate proper handwashing practices. “We are promoting effective handwashing, the kind that actually prevents diseases,” Geoffrey explained. She said behavioural change is key to achieving a clean environment, adding that continuous sensitisation is crucial. “Changing behaviour is not easy. Consistent sensitisation through the media and community engagement is essential to stop open defecation and promote good hygiene,” she said. Geoffrey urged government collaboration with private toilet operators and more public enlightenment to achieve open defecation-free communities. “The government’s role is to provide public toilets and promote hygiene awareness. Behavioural change takes time, but continuous communication can achieve it,” she said. Mrs Talatu Danladi, one of the participants, said she learnt a better and more effective way to wash her hands. “Before now, we didn’t wash our hands properly, but today I learnt how to do it right. I feel my hands are very clean,” she said. Also, Mr Isa Sule, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), said the exercise changed his perception of handwashing. “Before, we just rinsed our hands and ate. Now I know the proper way and I can see the difference. My hands feel truly clean,” he said. NAN reports that the highlight of the event was a practical demonstration of proper handwashing techniques by the foundation.