The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating open defecation and addressing related public health risks.
Mr. Olorunfemi Oladipo, General Manager of RUWASA, emphasized the government’s plans during a visit to Wara, Ilorin West LGA.
He stressed the government’s determination to engage stakeholders, aiming for open defecation-free status in six pilot local governments.
Local and state monitoring teams were established to ensure every household across Kwara State has at least one functional toilet.
Oladipo noted local governments play a crucial role in this campaign due to their close ties with grassroots communities.
Three local governments—Ilorin South, Oke-Ero, and Ilorin West—have been engaged, with three more scheduled for engagement soon.
The remaining pilot areas—Patigi, Ekiti, and Ifelodun—will be included in the programme before the targeted completion date in May.
“The monitoring teams will ensure every household has a toilet to discourage open defecation and improve overall public hygiene,” he said.
He highlighted that RUWASA’s Clean Kwara Campaign aligns with Sustainable Development Goal Six for accessible water and sanitation.
Alhaji Abdulrahman Ladan, Ilorin West Council Chairman, confirmed the council included sanitation projects in its 2025 fiscal budget.
Budget allocations will provide public toilets in markets, schools, and public spaces, alongside boreholes for essential water access.
Mr. Abdulazeez Rufai, RUWASA’s Head of Sanitation and Hygiene, encouraged residents to prioritize hygiene for better community health.
He assured citizens that RUWASA remains committed to achieving open defecation-free status in all six pilot areas by May.
Oladipo also called on stakeholders, including private organizations and community leaders, to support ongoing sanitation initiatives statewide.
“Our collaborations with local councils will continue until we achieve a cleaner, healthier Kwara, free from open defecation,” Oladipo concluded.
