In a bid to sort out the persistent menace of open defecation in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Water Sources and Sanitation has partnered the Nationwide Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to amplify efforts below the ‘Clear Nigeria’ Marketing campaign.
Talking throughout a two-day sensitisation workshop for Group Growth Service (CDS) Focal Officers of the NYSC, organised by the ministry in Nasarawa State, the Everlasting Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, highlighted the essential have to eradicate open defecation, which at the moment impacts over 48 million Nigerians.
Pheelangwah stated the Clear Nigeria Marketing campaign, launched in 2019, seeks to finish open defecation by 2030. “Whereas now we have made progress, with 136 native authorities areas and Jigawa State attaining open defecation-free standing, a lot work stays,” he acknowledged.
The workshop, which introduced collectively NYSC officers from throughout the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), aimed to arm members with the information and abilities essential to drive the marketing campaign’s goals on the grassroots degree.
The occasion additionally marked the inauguration of the YouthWASH Programme, an initiative aimed toward leveraging the vitality and attain of NYSC members to advertise sanitation and hygiene. The programme is a part of a broader strategic plan unveiled by the Vice President in November 2024, which seeks to speed up progress in the direction of attaining the marketing campaign’s targets.
Individuals on the workshop engaged in intensive classes targeted on methods to mobilise communities, drive behavioral change, and implement sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) options.
Pheelangwah known as on the officers to take an lively position within the nationwide effort. “Your involvement is essential. Collectively, we are able to create a cleaner, greener, and extra sustainable Nigeria,” he urged.
In his goodwill message, the African Coordinator of YouthWASH Initiative Africa, Nature Uchenna Obiakor, counseled the partnership, saying “This collaboration underscores our shared dedication to a cleaner and more healthy Nigeria. YouthWASH Initiative Africa stays devoted to empowering younger folks to steer impactful WASH initiatives.”
The Nationwide YouthWASH Strategic Framework, launched in 2023, outlines key goals equivalent to selling youth engagement, constructing capability, advocating for coverage inclusion, strengthening collaborations, and fostering behavioural change.
The anticipated outcomes embody elevated youth participation, improved group hygiene practices, sustainable partnerships, coverage influence, and a cleaner surroundings.
