Nigeria needs 11.6m toilets to end open defecation, says minister

Joseph Utsev, minister of water resources and sanitation, says Nigeria needs 11.6 million additional toilets to meet its open defecation free (ODF) target by 2030.

Utsev told journalists in Abuja on Friday that reaching ODF status required more than building toilets, adding that ensuring proper use remains a challenge.

He said to reach the ODF target, Nigeria requires an annual budget of N10 billion, but only half the amount has been allocated.

“The challenge is not only the number of toilets available but also raising awareness and encouraging their consistent use,” NAN quoted Utsev as saying.

“This is why we are elevating the campaign to a higher level. The Vice President will lead the relaunch of our strategy in a more impactful way.”

Utsev appreciated the support of development partners, including the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), for providing toilet facilities, training, and awareness initiatives.

“Our partners do not provide funds directly but support through the supply of toilets and training programmes, their efforts have been invaluable in driving this campaign forward,” he said.

He said since the campaign launch in 2019, 135 LGAs and over 30,000 communities have achieved ODF status, with more undergoing verification.

Utsev called for renewed collective efforts to create a cleaner, healthier Nigeria.

“Ending open defecation is about more than toilets, it’s about improving health, boosting productivity, and enhancing the dignity and safety of our citizens,” he said.

“The campaign remains a critical component of Nigeria’s efforts to improve sanitation and public health, with the 2025 ODF target in sight but requiring sustained momentum to achieve,” he added.

SHETTIMA TO LEAD RELAUNCH OF TOILET CAMPAIGN

Utsev also announced that the ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign’ will be relaunched on November 19.

“Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead the event, which aims to strengthen collaboration among state governors, community leaders, civil society organisations, and development partners,” he said.

He called on governors, community leaders, and partners to support the campaign.

The event will coincide with this year’s World Toilet Day, themed “Sanitation for Peace”.