The Jigawa State government has disclosed its expenditure of N500 million towards the implementation of improved latrines in various public facilities across the state, including educational institutions, medical facilities, commercial centers, and transportation hubs.
This announcement was made by Alhaji Ibrahim Hannungiwa, the state Commissioner for Water Resources, during a press conference held in Dutse.
Hannungiwa emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of Jigawa State’s Open Defecation Free (ODF) status. He added that the state is dedicated to surpassing the national ODF target by the year 2025. The achievement of this milestone, according to the Commissioner, results from the diligent implementation of effective policies and programs in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
To further ensure the sustainability of the ODF status, the state has established a committee tasked with developing strategies to eradicate open defecation entirely. This includes plans to provide additional standard public conveniences at public places and along highways throughout the state.
Hannungiwa also highlighted the state government’s efforts in public awareness campaigns, particularly in rural communities, to emphasize the importance of using toilets. Jigawa State holds the distinction of being the first and only state in Nigeria to be declared Open Defecation Free by UNICEF. As a testament to this achievement, the UN agency appointed the state governor, Umar Namadi, as an ODF Ambassador.
