Kwara Reaffirms Commitment to Achieving Open Defecation Free Status

The Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA) has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Kwara State at the forefront of states with Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, declaring that it will not relent in its efforts.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the delegates of the "Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet" campaign under the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, the Kwara State Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Yinusa Lade expressed concern over the continued practice of open defecation in the state, describing it as an "eyesore" that contradicts the developmental strides of the current administration led by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. 

He emphasized that ending open defecation is a behavioural challenge, noting that human resistance to change is one of the biggest obstacles, and therefore urged all stakeholders to join hands to ensure the success of the campaign.

General Manager of RUWASSA, Mr. Olorunfemi Oladipo, while addressing the Clean Nigeria campaign officials at his office, stated that the agency has followed all necessary protocols to reach its goals.

 He noted that RUWASSA would leverage the successful experience in Oke Ero Local Government Area to extend the ODF initiative across other local governments, while the agency awaits validation at the national level.

Mr. Oladipo also highlighted the unwavering support of the Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, particularly in the areas of welfare and timely approval of funding to achieve the agency’s mandate. 

He expressed optimism that significant progress would be made before the end of the year, especially with the technical support provided by UNICEF.

Head of Department, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Mr. Rufai Olalekan disclosed that robust engagement has already taken place with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other critical stakeholders. 

He explained that this was followed by the formation of a monitoring committee, distribution of sanitation materials, construction of public toilets, and provision of material support to individuals for the construction of private toilets

Earlier, the Head of Sanitation Marketing and Zonal Coordinator for the South West, Mr. Ezeakachi Nwayanwu Chibike, along with the Zonal Coordinator for North Central, Miss Precious Airende, explained that the meeting was essential to provide an assessment and offer technical support to RUWASSA in its ongoing ODF efforts. 

Mr. Chibike praised the leadership of Hon. Yinusa Lade and the initiatives implemented by RUWASSA in advancing the state's sanitation goals

Chairman of the Task Force, Alhaji Ishiaq Jimoh Elewuetu, attributed the achievements recorded so far to the commitment of the state government, lauding its dedication to creating a safe and healthy environment for all residents.

Afolabi Temple 

Press Secretary 

RUWASSA

08146017560