The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a bold new plan to end open defecation across the country by 2030. This plan, part of the Clean Nigeria Campaign Strategic Plan, will be launched next week and aims to improve sanitation and hygiene nationwide.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, during a press briefing in Abuja. He highlighted the campaign’s importance, stating that better access to toilets will improve public health, boost productivity, and protect the dignity of Nigerians.

The government has made significant progress since launching the “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet” Campaign in 2019. So far, 135 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have been declared Open Defecation-Free (ODF), and over 11.58 million toilets have been constructed. Despite these successes, more work is needed to meet the ambitious targets set for 2025 and beyond.

To address these challenges, the new strategic plan will include:

• Increased advocacy and public awareness campaigns.
• Partnerships with states and local governments to provide sanitation facilities.
• Programmes to revitalise urban and rural water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

The campaign will also emphasise collaboration with private sector stakeholders and community leaders to ensure widespread access to toilets in homes, schools, and workplaces.

The plan’s launch will coincide with the 2024 World Toilet Day (WTD) on November 19. This year’s theme, “Toilets: A Place for Peace,” highlights the importance of sanitation for health, safety, and progress.

Activities planned for WTD include:

• Launching the strategic plan by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
• Recognising communities and LGAs that have achieved ODF status in states like Borno and Ogun.
• Celebrating sanitation champions and ambassadors who promote hygiene awareness.

While progress has been made, Nigeria faces significant challenges in achieving its sanitation goals. Minister Utsev stressed the need for continued advocacy and engagement with all stakeholders to accelerate the pace of change.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Richard Pheelangwah, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring every Nigerian has access to safe and dignified sanitation facilities.

Ending open defecation is more than a sanitation goal—it’s a step toward healthier communities, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life for all Nigerians. By working together, the country can achieve its vision of an Open Defecation-Free Nigeria by 2030.

Support the Clean Nigeria Campaign by spreading awareness and advocating for better sanitation in your community. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier Nigeria.