By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State Government, in partnership with WaterAid Nigeria, commissioned a climate-resilient, user-friendly toilet facility on November 19, 2024, marking World Toilet Day.
WaterAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Evelyn Mere at the inauguration on Tuesday in Bauchi Highlighted Nigeria’s alarming sanitation statistics: over half the population lacks access to decent toilets.
Mere, represented by WaterAid Head of Programmes, Mr Nanpet Chuktu said the initiative aims to improve public health outcomes in Bauchi State through sustainable climate-resilient water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH)
She explained that the inclusive design facility features wide doors, handrails, ramps, secured doors, separate entrances, and a nursing platform.
“The toilet model addresses vulnerabilities exacerbated by climate change.
“WaterAid Nigeria and Bauchi State Government partnership demonstrates effective collaboration.
“Aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation for all,” the country Director said
The Country Director emphasized the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s sanitation crisis, where over half the population lacks access to decent toilets
The Director urged the Bauchi State Government to replicate the toilet model across markets and motor parks.
Mere urges governments, development partners, and stakeholders to prioritize investment, champion policies, and scale proven models to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation for all).
In a remark,Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State, represented by Deputy Alhaji Auwal Jatau praised WaterAid International’s support, committing to prioritize investments in water, sanitation, and hygiene projects.
He emphasized the state government commitments towards sustaining sanitation and Hygiene in the state
The state government vows to improve public sanitation and Hygiene and emphasize on promoting healthy practices.
He urged Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA) to ensure project sustainability.