We Spent N500m On Toilets – Jigawa Commissioner

• Jigawa State allocates N500 million to enhance sanitation facilities, prioritizing latrines in schools, hospitals, markets, and motor parks statewide
• The state’s commitment to maintaining its ‘Open Defecation Free’ status and surpassing the national ODF target by 2025 is reinforced through partnerships and strategic committees

The Jigawa state government has disclosed that it has allocated N500 million to improve sanitation facilities, specifically latrines, in schools, hospitals, markets, and motor parks throughout the state.

Ibrahim Hannungiwa, the Commissioner for Water Resources, made this announcement in Dutse, the state capital. He also highlighted the state’s commitment to maintaining its ‘Open Defecation Free’ (ODF) status and surpassing the national ODF target by 2025.

Hannungiwa attributed this accomplishment to extensive efforts in implementing effective policies and programs in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and the United Nations Children’s Fund.

He further revealed the establishment of a committee tasked with devising strategies to ensure the sustainability of the state’s ODF status and the complete eradication of open defecation.

Hannungiwa stated, “Under this committee, more standard public conveniences would be provided at public places and along highways in the state. The state government has also focused on public awareness regarding the importance of using toilets, particularly in rural communities.”

He proudly announced that Jigawa State is the first and only state in Nigeria to be declared Open Defecation Free by UNICEF. In recognition of this achievement, the UN agency has appointed the state governor, Umar Namadi, as an ODF Ambassador.

Governor Umar Namadi is slated to present a paper on Nigeria’s progress in the fight against open defecation at an upcoming conference to be held in Canada. This demonstrates the state’s leadership in promoting sanitation and hygiene.