In a bid to tackle the persistent menace of open defecation in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has partnered the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to amplify efforts under the ‘Clean Nigeria’ Campaign.
Speaking during a two-day sensitisation workshop for Community Development Service (CDS) Focal Officers of the NYSC, organised by the ministry in Nasarawa State, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, highlighted the critical need to eradicate open defecation, which currently affects over 48 million Nigerians.
Pheelangwah said the Clean Nigeria Campaign, launched in 2019, seeks to end open defecation by 2030. “While we have made progress, with 136 local government areas and Jigawa State achieving open defecation-free status, much work remains,” he stated.
The workshop, which brought together NYSC officers from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), aimed to arm participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive the campaign’s objectives at the grassroots level.
The event also marked the inauguration of the YouthWASH Programme, an initiative aimed at leveraging the energy and reach of NYSC members to promote sanitation and hygiene. The programme is part of a broader strategic plan unveiled by the Vice President in November 2024, which seeks to accelerate progress towards achieving the campaign’s goals.
Participants at the workshop engaged in intensive sessions focused on strategies to mobilise communities, drive behavioral change, and implement sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions.
Pheelangwah called on the officers to take an active role in the national effort. “Your involvement is crucial. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Nigeria,” he urged.
In his goodwill message, the African Coordinator of YouthWASH Initiative Africa, Nature Uchenna Obiakor, commended the partnership, saying “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to a cleaner and healthier Nigeria. YouthWASH Initiative Africa remains dedicated to empowering young people to lead impactful WASH initiatives.”
The National YouthWASH Strategic Framework, launched in 2023, outlines key objectives such as promoting youth engagement, building capacity, advocating for policy inclusion, strengthening collaborations, and fostering behavioural change.
The anticipated outcomes include increased youth participation, improved community hygiene practices, sustainable partnerships, policy impact, and a cleaner environment.
