… Extends “Use the Toilet Campaign” to Surulere LGA
The Lagos State Government on Tuesday charged residents to become ambassadors of positive change to the environment towards making the Year 2025 Open Defecation free target realisable.
Speaking at the “Use the Toilet” campaign in Surulere, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mr. Omobolaji Tajudeen Gaji noted that the journey to a clean Nigeria starts with each resident making a personal commitment to embracing change.
The Permanent Secretary, who spoke through a Director in the Sanitation Department of the Ministry, Mrs. Omoyeni Balogun said that the 2025 target can be achieved by promoting the construction and use of toilets in homes and public places in Nigeria as a whole.
He said the lack of proper sanitation and the practice of open defecation has been a significant challenge in the country and it is time for all to address the issue head-on.
He said it is disheartening to know that some citizens lack access to basic sanitation services and this has led to severe consequences for public health, the environment, and the overall socio-economic development of the State.
Gaji explained that access to proper sanitation facilities is a fundamental human right and a crucial aspect of any developed society, stressing that the government would ensure that every individual has access to clean and safe sanitation facilities.
He said the State is determined to improve public health, reduce the spread of diseases, protect the water sources and enhance the overall quality of life for all Nigerians.
“This is not just a campaign but a movement that seeks to transform Lagos and Nigeria for the better. We must all play our part as policymakers, civil society, corporate entities or ordinary citizens to make this campaign a success. Together, let us usher in a new era of cleanliness and improved sanitation in Surulere Local Government Area and its environs”, he said.
The Permanent Secretary added that the campaign starts with raising awareness about the importance of using toilets and proper sanitation practices in communities; governments at all levels prioritising and investing in sanitation infrastructure and all businesses joining hands with the government to support the noble cause.
In his welcome address, the Chairman Surulere Local Government Area, Hon. Suleiman Bamidele lauded the giant strides of the State Government in the Sanitation and Hygiene Sector of the State.
He said the act of Open Defecation must be eradicated because of its significant health challenges such as diarrhoea and cholera amongst others that could result in eventual death.
Hon Bamidele implored members of his community to collaborate with the State Government and be Ambassadors against open defecation and ensure that they cascade the message to everyone in the Local Government and Local Council Development Areas.
