Vice President, Kashim Shettima has announced the government’s commitment to end open defecation by 2025 as a key measure to combat the spread of cholera in Nigeria.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Steering Committee for the “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet” Campaign at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Shettima emphasized the need for strategic partnerships and leveraging technology to enhance the nation’s sanitation landscape.
Shettima highlighted the importance of hygiene and its impact on health, development, and wealth, urging the committee to align their efforts with broader government priorities like poverty reduction, education, and economic growth.
He called for innovative and sustainable solutions to manage wastewater, contaminated water sources, and open defecation.
The Vice President stressed the role of public and private sector collaboration, especially involving youth and women, in driving change.
He tasked the committee with addressing the challenges posed by climate change, urbanization, and population growth.
Health and Social Welfare Minister, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate reported that the cholera epidemic has affected 33 states, resulting in 2,000 cases and 33 deaths.
He noted that the example of Jigawa State, which has been declared open defecation-free, as a model for other regions.
Water Resources and Sanitation Minister, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, presented a report on the campaign, detailing its challenges and successes since its inception in 2016.
He noted that approximately 47 million Nigerians engage in open defecation, and significant investments are needed to build toilets and change behaviors nationwide.
The Minister called for support from the Ministries of Finance and Justice to ensure the campaign’s success.
Report by Bello Wakili
