The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its firm commitment to achieving the ambitious goal of ending open defecation across the nation by the year 2030. This commitment was reaffirmed by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, during a recent event where he emphasized the government’s dedication to supporting state-led initiatives aimed at improving Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services.
Professor Utsev underscored the importance of a collaborative approach to addressing the sanitation challenges facing Nigeria. He stated that the federal government recognizes the critical role of state governments in achieving the national goal of eliminating open defecation and ensuring access to safe and sustainable sanitation for all Nigerians.
The Minister assured that the federal government will continue to provide technical and financial assistance to states to support their WASH programs and initiatives. This support will enable states to implement effective and sustainable sanitation solutions tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
During the event, Professor Utsev also highlighted the significant progress being made in Kano State towards improving sanitation and hygiene practices. He commended the Kano State Government for its dedication and commitment to sanitation, which has positioned it among the top-performing states in Nigeria’s sanitation sector.
The Minister presented Open Defecation Free (ODF) certificates to 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Kano State, recognizing their success in eliminating open defecation within their jurisdictions. This achievement serves as an example for other states to emulate and demonstrates the effectiveness of community-led sanitation initiatives.
In addition to highlighting state support and recognizing Kano’s success, the Minister also provided an overview of the national strategy for ending open defecation. This strategy includes key initiatives such as:
- Reconstituting the Clean Nigeria Campaign Steering Committee: This committee provides overall guidance and coordination for the national sanitation campaign.
- Launching a revised 2025–2030 strategy: This strategy sets out clear targets and priorities for the national sanitation program.
- Declaring 148 LGAs as ODF: This milestone demonstrates the progress being made across the country in eliminating open defecation.
- Creating a real-time monitoring web portal: This portal provides up-to-date information on the progress of sanitation initiatives across the country.
- Conducting ongoing high-level advocacy with religious and traditional leaders: This advocacy aims to mobilize support for sanitation initiatives at the community level.
Professor Utsev assured that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the federal government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting sub-national governments to end open defecation by 2030. This commitment reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of sanitation for public health, economic development, and environmental sustainability. By working collaboratively with state governments and implementing effective national strategies, Nigeria is determined to achieve its goal of ending open defecation and creating a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future for all its citizens.
