From Jude Dangwam, Jos

The United Nations International Children Education Fund(UNICEF) has expressed its commitment to partner with the Plateau state government on its efforts to become a child friendly state in Nigeria with basic amenities across schools.

The Chief Field Office, Dr, Nuzhat Rafique, UNICEF Bauchi Field Office made this commitment while addressing the government officials and other stakeholders at the Commemoration of World Water Day: Connecting to the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign in Plateau State

She noted that commemorating the World Water Day, is a day dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action to address the water and sanitation crisis bedeviling the country and the subnationals.

She maintained that the Federal Government of Nigeria launched the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign in 2019, an ambitious initiative aimed at making Nigeria Open Defecation Free (ODF) by 2025.

“This campaign calls for a collective response from government agencies, private sector actors, development partners, and communities to accelerate access to improved sanitation.

“It is commendable that Plateau state is making significant strides in aligning with this vision by launching the initiative at the state level, at the same time becoming one of the few states in this club.

She explained that the Plateau WASH sector has been and remains instrumental in driving sustainable water and sanitation solutions in the state. Stressing that its role will be pivotal for the state to achieve its first ODF LGA.

“Your excellency, UNICEF and the Ministry of Water Resources through RUWASSA have collaborated to bring Riyom and Shendam LGAs close to attaining ODF status. We hope the state government will finalize the process this year.” She expressed concern

The Field Officer disclosed that recently, UNICEF facilitated a learning visit by the Plateau state WASH team to Bauchi State on Fecal Sludge Management (FSM) strategy. “FSM strategy refers to the safe collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal or reuse of fecal sludge from non-severed sanitation systems, such as pit latrines, septic tanks, and container-based sanitation.” She noted

Dr. Rafique added that the visit was a critical first step towards promoting and ensuring the safe management of fecal sludge on the Plateau.

“Your Excellency, I urge the state government to expedite the development of the Climate Resilient Fecal Sludge Management (FSM) Strategy and Operating Guideline for Plateau State.

“This will establish a clear framework and set of procedures to address fecal sludge management issues. It will also guide stakeholders on effective implementation and compliance with national sanitation guidelines and standards at the state and LGA levels.

“These efforts and launching of the ‘Clean Plateau State Use The Toilet Campaign’ which we are doing today, will significantly improve health, protect water sources, and enhance the overall quality of life for the children and women of Plateau State.

“As we mark World Water Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to accelerating progress towards a sanitation-secure Plateau state. We must continue working together, government institutions, development partners, civil society, and individuals to ensure that every Nigerian has access to clean water and a safe toilet.” She charged

Plateau Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang said his administration has taken a firm stand against open defecation considering its health implication, “I can’t stand the health implications of open defecation in my state.” He stated

The Governor, represented by the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, said more than ever before, the state is committed to protecting the environment, which is under threat due to climate change.

He promised that the state would do all it takes by providing clean and potable water supply and sanitation facilities adding that it is unacceptable for citizens of the state to lack access facilities for defecation which is very critical.

Mutfwang said not only does the  practice of open defecation pose serious health risks but also contaminates the state’s water sources and vowed to reverse plateau to its second position as open defecation free state in the country as he launched the  “Clean Plateau, Use the Toilet Campaign.