Abuja: The Federal Capital Territory Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Directorate (RUWASSA), in collaboration with Wastebox Ltd, a waste management company, launched a campaign against open defecation on the streets and motorparks of Abuja. The campaign, titled ‘Clean FCT: Use the Toilet,’ commenced at the Area 1 temporary motorpark and extended through several motorparks within the Garki District.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, drivers, commuters, traders, and residents were engaged with crucial messages about the hazards of open defecation. Mrs. Chika Ibe from Wastebox Ltd emphasized that the initiative aims to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by 2030. Ibe called for enhanced collaboration between the FCT Administration, citizens, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and other government entities to amplify the campaign’s reach.
She highlighted that open defecation remains a concern, especially in rural areas lacking proper sanitation facilities, which exposes residents to diseases like cholera. Ibe urged stakeholders to intensify efforts to eliminate open defecation as soon as possible, noting that while Nigeria’s initial target to eradicate the practice was set for 2025, it has been extended to 2030. She expressed confidence in achieving this goal through strengthened partnerships and extensive public awareness campaigns.
Mrs. Esther Shettima, a Sanitation Officer from FCT RUWASSA’s Sanitation Department, remarked on the persistence of open defecation despite the existence of public toilets across strategic locations in the FCT. Shettima acknowledged improvements in ODF status but cautioned against complacency. She emphasized the importance of continued partnership with stakeholders to disseminate information on the dangers of open defecation to every household.
