IBADAN/Nigeria: The Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA) unveiled a strategic collaboration with traditional institutions to combat open defecation within the Ibarapa zone.
During a high-profile sensitization workshop on WASH Implementation held at Plaza de Aruna, Oyo, Mr. Adeduntan Mumeen Adeniyi, the General Manager of RUWASSA, emphasized the urgent need to address open defecation. The initiative, supported by UNICEF, aims to attain Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and bolster sanitation across the state by 2025.
Mr. Adeniyi highlighted the pivotal role of the program in mitigating water and sanitation-related ailments, particularly in rural areas. He underscored the commitment of the Oyo State Government, led by His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde FNSE, to eradicate open defecation entirely.
The workshop convened critical stakeholders from Ibarapa East Local Government, rallying support for WASH activities. Mr. Adeniyi urged community leaders and residents to embrace the initiative, stressing the imperative of collective responsibility for its sustainability.
In a bid to enforce compliance, Mr. Adeniyi urged traditional leaders to institute punitive measures against households failing to construct latrines within specified timelines. High Chief Olatunji Samuel, representing community leaders, pledged unwavering support towards achieving the set objectives, affirming the determination of the people to uphold cleanliness standards.
WASH Specialist, Mr. Monday Johnson of UNICEF, expressed confidence in achieving Open Defecation Free status for Ibarapa East within six months. He underscored the importance of behavioral change and community ownership in sustaining the project, emphasizing that UNICEF’s role is primarily educational.
Furthermore, Mr. Gbenga Gbadebo, the Executive Chairman of Ibarapa East Local Government, announced plans to establish a dedicated WASH Unit and provide logistical support for the project. He pledged to intensify awareness campaigns and allocate land for WASH facilities, demonstrating the local government’s commitment to the cause.
