In a decisive step toward improving sanitation and hygiene, the Ogun State Government has officially banned open defecation and urination. This announcement aligns with its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which focuses on ensuring water accessibility, proper sanitation, and hygiene for all.
The declaration came as part of activities marking World Toilet Day, celebrated annually on November 19. The theme for this year’s campaign, “Toilets – A Place for Peace,” highlights the profound impact of broken or inadequate sanitation systems on communities. It underscores the importance of sustainable sanitation for a stable and healthy society.
Ogun’s Commitment to Sanitation and Hygiene
The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, made the announcement during the commissioning of four newly built public toilets equipped with bio-digesters in border communities along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, including Berger, Isheri, Warewa, and Magboro. These facilities, which bring the state-wide total to 80 public toilets, are strategically designed to combat open defecation in the region.
According to Oresanya, banning open urination and defecation is the beginning of rigorous enforcement measures and strict penalties for offenders. The initiative aims to:
Promote a cleaner and healthier environment for residents.
Enhance the state’s aesthetic appeal.
Accelerate the eradication of open defecation, thereby aligning Ogun with national and global sanitation goals.
“This is a significant step towards making Ogun State open-defecation-free. It aligns with our commitment to SDG 6, ensuring water accessibility, proper sanitation, and hygiene for all,” Oresanya stated.
National Perspective
The fight against open defecation is not unique to Ogun State. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reported that over 46 million Nigerians still practice open defecation, making the country one of the highest-ranked globally in this regard. In response, the Nigerian government launched a campaign in 2019 to eliminate open defecation nationwide by 2025.
Looking Ahead
The Ogun State Government’s proactive measures, including the commissioning of new public toilets and the enforcement of strict sanitation laws, set a precedent for other states. By addressing the issue with determination and urgency, the state is not only improving public health and hygiene but also paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
As the world reflects on the critical role of sanitation through initiatives like World Toilet Day, Ogun State’s commitment serves as a reminder that access to proper sanitation is essential for societal well-being and development.
