The Oyo State Government, in partnership with UNICEF, is actively working towards achieving an open defecation-free status by 2025. Though the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene program, stakeholders are being trained across the state. Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, emphasised the importance of this collaboration, which began with traditional rulers in Ibarapa East Local Government Area and will extend to other areas. Adedunta Adeniyi, chairman of RUWASSA, highlighted that these efforts swill not only combat open defecation but also reduce water and sanitation-related diseases.
“The workshop was aimed at the state to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and improved sanitation by 2025, under the WASH project supported by UNICEF. It would also assist in reducing water and sanitation-related diseases, particularly in rural areas of the state.”
“This will enhance the glory of the state and our land, and it will make Ibarapa East Open defecation free.”
He further emphasised the eagerness of his community to endorse the initiative. UNICEF WASH specialist, Monday Johnson, remarked that the sensitisation campaign would aid the leading local government in attaining Open Defecation Free status within the next six month. Johnson also urged other local government areas to follow suit by prioritising behavioral change to adopt ODF practices. However, he clarified that UNICEF’s role does not involve constructing toilets for residents but instead focuses on educating them about the significance of cleanliness maintenance.