By George George Idowu
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has called upon state governors to contribute to achieving the Open Defecation Free (ODF) campaign in Nigeria by enhancing public toilet facilities and sanitation services nationwide.
This plea was made by Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, on Monday when the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Abuja.
His words: “We have written to the State Governors, urging them to collaborate in the Open Defecation Free Nigeria Campaign, to ensure the provision of more decent toilet facilities and other sanitation services across the country to foster a healthier nation.”
Utsev disclosed plans for comprehensive assessments of water and sanitation needs across all 36 states, underscoring the federal government’s commitment to supporting states in addressing these crucial areas.
He assured Governor Zulum that his ministry was fully prepared to assist Borno State in enhancing agriculture through irrigation systems and water schemes.
In his remarks, Governor Zulum appealed for federal support in utilising Borno State’s arable lands for irrigation projects to enhance agriculture.
He also encouraged efforts to recharge Lake Chad through internal water bodies to boost food security.
The Governor assured the Minister of an excellent and productive working relationship aimed at improving food production and the lives of the citizens.
Similarly, Utsev highlighted the ministry’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs, including SURWASH, PEWASH, and other initiatives focused on dams and irrigation projects.
The minister reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts between the federal government and states to ensure the timely implementation of these critical programs at the grassroots level.