2 months ago
15 ARTICLE AD
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joseph Utsev, has applauded Ado and Ohimini Local Government Areas of Benue State for achieving Open-Defecation Free status.
Utsev, who was represented by the Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Elizabeth Ugoh, made this announcement during a commemoration ceremony in Otukpo, Benue State, on Tuesday.
Last Thursday, the minister disclosed that the National Task Group on Sanitation declared eight additional LGAs ODF.
Utsev noted that this achievement marks a critical step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to achieve the national ODF target by 2025.
In a statement signed by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Funmi Imuetinyan, on Tuesday, the minister said, “This represents more than just a title; it’s about creating a healthier and more prosperous future for our people.
He underscored that open defecation remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world, with far-reaching consequences.
He also noted that it compromises health and undermines education—particularly for young girls, among others.
He stated that eliminating open defecation is a crucial step toward better sanitation, resulting in fewer diseases, higher productivity, and greater dignity for our people.
The statement added that the minister emphasised that the importance of sanitation cannot be overstated, noting that access to clean and safe toilets, along with good hygiene practices, drastically reduces the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, and typhoid.
This improvement, according to him, significantly enhances the well-being of women and children, who are often the most vulnerable when sanitation access is limited.
Commending the collaborative efforts of the Benue state government, UNICEF, and various community organisations, the minister recognised the contributions of traditional and community leaders in achieving this status.
He encouraged continued efforts to sustain these gains and work towards state-wide ODF status.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the ODF certificate to the two LGAs. With this achievement, the total number of ODF LGAs in Nigeria has risen to 136.
