Here’s what you need to know:
- Nigeria aims to end open defecation by 2030.
- The government is supporting states to improve WASH services.
- Kano State is leading the way with significant progress.
- Collaboration with international partners is key.
The Big Promise: Ending Open Defecation
Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, has reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to backing state-level initiatives that boost Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services. This commitment is a crucial part of the national strategy to eradicate open defecation by 2030. The minister made these remarks during an event in Kano, where 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) were awarded Open Defecation Free (ODF) certificates.
Kano State: Setting the Pace
Kano State has emerged as a frontrunner in Nigeria’s sanitation sector. The state’s commitment to improving sanitation has been lauded, with the minister acknowledging their impressive progress. According to the Minister, Kano has demonstrated what is possible through strategic collaboration and strong community engagement.
Key Milestones of the Clean Nigeria Campaign
The Clean Nigeria Campaign has achieved several significant milestones, including:
- Reconstituting the Steering Committee.
- Launching a revised 2025–2030 strategy.
- Declaring 148 LGAs as ODF.
- Creating a real-time monitoring web portal.
- Engaging with religious and traditional leaders.
Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the federal government is committed to supporting sub-national governments in their efforts to end open defecation by 2030. This support includes increased budget allocations for WASH, promotion of community ownership, and driving behavioral change through effective communication.
The Role of Traditional Institutions
Traditional institutions play a vital role in mobilizing rural communities. Working through Local Government WASH Units and community structures like WASHCOMs is essential to achieve and sustain Open Defecation Free (ODF) outcomes.
The Impact of Development Partners
Development partners such as UNICEF, WaterAid, Self Help Africa, SATO, and NEWSAN have provided technical and financial assistance, accelerating sanitation efforts across the country. Their contributions are invaluable in achieving the national goal.
Kano Governor’s Remarks
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State expressed pride in the state’s sanitation progress, announcing that 26 out of 44 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have been certified Open Defecation Free (ODF). The governor highlighted open defecation as a serious public health threat and applauded the collective efforts of stakeholders in supporting the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While significant progress has been made, challenges remain. Sustaining ODF status requires continuous effort and investment. Behavioral change is also crucial; people need to adopt and maintain good hygiene practices. The government and its partners must work together to overcome these challenges and ensure that Nigeria achieves its goal of ending open defecation by 2030. According to the World Bank, Nigeria is one of the countries with the highest number of people practicing open defecation. Changing this requires a multifaceted approach that includes infrastructure development, education, and community engagement.
The event concluded with the presentation of ODF certificates to the qualified LGAs in Kano State and the presentation of the ODF Great Achievers award to the governor, marking a significant step forward in Nigeria’s journey towards improved sanitation.
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