Bauchi Adopts Innovative Toilet
By Ojugbele Omotunde
Bauchi State, in a concerted effort to achieve certified Open Defecation-Free status, has endorsed updated designs for public restrooms following a stakeholders’ meeting.
Dr. Ibrahim Kabir, the Director General of the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA), made this significant announcement during the stakeholders’ meeting held on Friday in Bauchi.
Six climate-resilient designs, tailored for various situations and enterprises, have been developed through a collaborative partnership between WaterAid Nigeria and a user-centered design methodology.
The primary objective is to improve access to toilets, particularly for women and girls.
With the formal approval of these new toilet designs for all public areas in the state, ministries, departments, and agencies are now mandated to incorporate the related expenses into their annual budgets.
Additionally, owners of public restrooms are required to renovate their existing facilities to align with the innovative design elements. The associated design and bill of quantities costs will be integral components of the yearly budget procedures.
This strategic move signifies Bauchi State’s commitment to not only eradicate open defecation but also promote inclusivity and resilience in sanitation infrastructure.
The collaboration with WaterAid Nigeria underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing crucial public health and environmental challenges.
Bauchi’s adoption of these forward-thinking designs is a commendable step towards creating a more hygienic and accessible sanitation landscape across the state.