The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled plans to end open defecation by 2030, with the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, announcing the upcoming launch of the Clean Nigeria Campaign Strategic Plan. This initiative, scheduled for unveiling on November 19, 2024, aims to accelerate efforts toward a nationwide Open Defecation-Free (ODF) target.

Speaking in Abuja ahead of the launch, Utsev emphasized that only 135 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have currently achieved ODF status, with ongoing efforts to expand sanitation facilities across the country. The Clean Nigeria Campaign, supported by the Presidential Executive Order 009, aims to ensure every Nigerian has access to proper sanitation by 2030.

This ambitious plan, a comprehensive roadmap, seeks to address gaps in basic sanitation services and improve public health, safety, and productivity. Several initiatives are already underway, including the partnership for expanded water, sanitation, and hygiene programs, and the “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet” Campaign. With 11.58 million toilets built to date, the government is committed to meeting its sanitation goals.

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The plan will be launched by Vice President Kashim Shettima on World Toilet Day, themed “Toilets: A Place for Peace.” The global event aims to inspire action toward the sanitation crisis and promote the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6 by 2030. This year’s celebration includes a variety of activities, such as the decoration of key officials as WASH ambassadors and the recognition of communities that have achieved ODF status.

Prof. Utsev stressed the importance of political support at both national and sub-national levels to ensure the success of this plan, highlighting the need for broad stakeholder engagement to mobilize resources for improved sanitation. He also noted that although progress has been made, a more concerted effort is needed to achieve the 2025 target for the Clean Nigeria campaign.