By Abdullahi Lukman
Eighteen percent of Nigerians still practice open defecation—more than three times the global average of 5 percent—according to a new report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The report, published by the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (JMP), reveals that Nigeria’s sanitation crisis remains severe, with the country’s rate comparable to those of Ethiopia, Eritrea, Niger, Chad, South Sudan, and Benin.
In response, the Nigerian government launched the “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet” campaign in 2019, aiming to end open defecation by 2025.
However, progress has been slow and uneven, casting doubt on the feasibility of meeting the target.
Challenges such as rapid population growth, poor infrastructure, and lack of maintenance for existing sanitation facilities have hampered efforts—particularly in rural areas where open defecation is most prevalent.
Experts emphasize that substantial investments and consistent community involvement are essential to reduce open defecation and achieve health and development goals.
The report contrasts Nigeria’s situation with countries like Brazil, Turkey, and the United States, which have successfully eliminated the practice.
WHO and UNICEF stress that addressing open defecation is vital for improving public health, reducing waterborne diseases, and meeting global Sustainable Development Goals on sanitation.
