At a recent meeting focused on addressing key issues concerning water and sanitation, local stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for proactive measures to better meet the needs of residents in the state.
During interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), various speakers shared their insights on this vital public health matter. Mr. Michael Ebofin, the Executive Director of the Water and Sanitation Corporation (NEWMAN), highlighted that the meeting aimed to unite stakeholders in devising a work plan for improving sanitation and water hygiene in the state.
Ebofin explained that this work plan would be presented to the state government as a model to address the targeted needs of the population. He emphasized the importance of the current administration sustaining the progress already achieved in water and sanitation and called for increased budget allocations to departments responsible for ensuring quality water, hygiene, and a clean environment. Ebofin urged the government to allocate more funds to water and sanitation without political interference.
Mrs. Ayobola Awolowo, the Commissioner for Women, Children, and Social Affairs, stressed the disproportionate impact of poor hygiene and water quality on women and children. She urged stakeholders to redouble efforts to help Nigeria achieve its goal of eliminating open defecation by 2025. Awolowo also emphasized the importance of other ministries, departments, and agencies learning from these initiatives to support access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities for the state’s residents.
Furthermore, Professor Ife Adewunmi from Redeemers University, Ede, emphasized the necessity for the state government to prioritize the work plan when implementing projects to ensure success in water and sanitation initiatives. Adewunmi underscored the benefits of aligning projects with the objectives laid out in the work plan, particularly in promoting water and sanitation hygiene for the beneficiaries.
In conclusion, collaborative efforts, commitment, and active engagement from stakeholders are essential to achieve the state’s water and sanitation objectives. The health and well-being of the population hinge on concrete actions and effective policies regarding water and sanitation hygiene.