Urgent Action Needed To End Open Defecation By 2030 – Minister

The minister for Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Utsev, has urged state governments to take decisive measures against open defecation by developing clear, time-bound action plans that align with the revised Clean Nigeria Campaign Implementation Strategy (2025–2030).

Speaking at the National Retreat for States on the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign in Abuja on Wednesday, the minister stressed the critical need for enhanced political commitment and dedicated implementation teams in every state.

“The Clean Nigeria Campaign is a call to action, urging collaboration, innovation, and sustainable efforts from all levels of government and private sector actors. While we have made progress, with 142 local government areas declared open defecation-free, much work remains,” he stated.

Despite ongoing efforts, Nigeria is failing to meet its 2030 target for eliminating open defecation. Current statistics show that 48 million Nigerians still practise open defecation, with only one state, Jigawa, having achieved open defecation-free (ODF) status.

To expedite progress, the minister announced a national performance scorecard to evaluate states based on their commitment and advancements towards ODF goals. High-performing states will receive incentives to encourage further action.

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New Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials have also been introduced to improve awareness and change behaviours.

The Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, currently in seven states, will be expanded to include more areas.

Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, represented by Director of Reforms, Mr. Moses Jo-Madugu, highlighted the importance of political will, strategic collaboration, and sustained action across all levels.

“Ending open defecation is not solely about policy; it requires changing behaviours, mobilising communities, and fostering sustainable solutions,” he remarked.

Inan Audu, representing the Vice President’s office, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the Clean Nigeria Campaign, promising enhanced coordination and support for state governments.

“More support is essential for states to meet our targets. The Vice President’s office is dedicated to backing this campaign and ensuring the necessary coordination to end open defecation by 2030,” she stated.

The retreat, which gathered commissioners and general managers responsible for sanitation from all 36 states and the FCT, aims to bolster commitment and ensure that by 2030, every Nigerian has access to safe and dignified sanitation.