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FG restates support for state-led ODF eradication initiatives

 

By Abbas Nazil

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its strong support for state-led initiatives to eradicate open defecation nationwide by 2030.

The apex government reaffirmed this commitment during a high-profile event in Kano State where 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) were officially presented with Open Defecation Free (ODF) certificates.

The event, held at the Coronation Hall of the Government House in Kano, also marked the North-West Zonal Review Meeting of the “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet” Campaign.

It featured an advocacy visit and the official presentation of certificates to the LGAs that have achieved the ODF milestone.

Speaking at the event on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, praised the Kano State government for its remarkable performance in sanitation.

He noted that Kano has emerged as one of the leading states in Nigeria’s sanitation sector, setting an example for others to follow.

Pheelangwah highlighted several achievements of the national Clean Nigeria Campaign, including the reconstitution of its steering committee, the launch of a revised 2025–2030 strategy, and the declaration of 148 LGAs across the country as Open Defecation Free.

Other milestones include the development of a real-time monitoring web portal and robust advocacy efforts involving traditional and religious leaders.

The minister emphasized that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government remains resolute in its support for state and local government efforts to end open defecation.

He called for increased funding for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs, enhanced community participation, and a focus on behavioural change through effective communication strategies.

Prof. Utsev also stressed the critical role of traditional institutions and local WASH structures such as WASHCOMs in sustaining ODF gains.

He commended Kano State’s achievement of 26 ODF LGAs out of 44 as a testament to strong political will and grassroots engagement.

Kano State’s Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, who represented the state governor, expressed pride in the state’s sanitation progress.

He described open defecation as a major public health concern and applauded the collaborative efforts of stakeholders, including UNICEF, WaterAid, Self Help Africa, SATO, and NEWSAN, for their support of the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach in Kano communities.

The ceremony ended with the presentation of ODF certificates to the 20 qualifying LGAs and a special ODF Great Achievers award presented to the Governor of Kano State, recognizing his administration’s dedication to improving sanitation and public health in the state.

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