Lagos Urges Residents to Champion Positive Environmental Change, Eradicate Open Defecation

By Salifu Faridat

The Lagos State government is encouraging its residents to embrace the role of ambassadors for positive environmental change in order to achieve the goal of becoming open defecation-free by 2025.

This call to action was sounded as the “toilet campaign” reached Surulere. Gaji Omobolaji, the Permanent Secretary at the Office of Environmental Services, emphasized recently that the journey towards a cleaner Nigeria starts with each individual committing to embracing transformative change.

Represented by Omoyeni Balogun, a director in the sanitation department of the ministry, Omobolaji highlighted that the key to attaining the 2025 target lies in advocating for the construction and usage of toilets both in homes and public spaces across Nigeria.

He underlined that addressing the issues of inadequate sanitation and open defecation is of paramount importance and requires concerted efforts.

Expressing concern over citizens lacking access to basic sanitation services, Omobolaji underscored the severe consequences this situation has on public health, the environment, and socio-economic progress.

He asserted that proper sanitation facilities are not only a basic human right but also a fundamental element of a developed society. The government is fully dedicated to ensuring that every individual has access to clean and safe sanitation facilities.

He stated, “The state is committed to improving public health, curbing disease transmission, safeguarding water sources, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all Nigerians. This campaign isn’t just about advocating for change; it’s a movement to bring about positive transformation in Lagos and Nigeria as a whole. We all have a role to play, whether as policy makers, civil society, corporations, or ordinary citizens, to make this campaign a resounding success.”

Omobolaji emphasized that the campaign commences with raising awareness about the significance of proper sanitation practices and using toilets within communities.

This entails prioritizing and investing in sanitation infrastructure, with support from businesses and concerted efforts from all segments of society.

He stressed that the campaign is more than just a call for change; it’s a rallying cry for collective action that involves government, private sector, civil society, community-based organizations, artisans, public toilet operators, and every citizen.

While acknowledging the challenges ahead, he remained optimistic, stating, “The path may be tough, but it’s not insurmountable. Each individual should contribute to creating a cleaner, safer, and healthier Lagos.”

Chairman of Surulere Local Council, Suleiman Bamidele, commended the state’s remarkable strides in the sanitation and hygiene sector.

He emphasized the urgency of ending open defecation due to its severe health implications, such as diarrhea and cholera, which can ultimately lead to loss of life.

He called upon community members to collaborate with the state and act as advocates against open defecation, spreading the message across Local Councils and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).