UNICEF asks states to support programmes promoting WASH services

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on state governments to support programmes aimed at promoting access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services.

Jane Bevan, UNICEF chief of WASH, spoke in Abuja on Wednesday during the launch of the WASH sector-wide sustainability checks action plan.

Bevan said the initiative will improve the sustainability of WASH facilities across the country.

She said the initiative will provide training for maintenance personnel, technical assistance and support the establishment of water departments at the grassroot level.

She said communities would need to develop approaches to collecting funds for the rehabilitation and maintenance of water facilities due to the government’s inability to adequately allocate resources for WASH infrastructure.

Also speaking, Bello Goronyo, minister of state for water resources, said the WASH sector is crucial in advancing sustainable development and welfare of Nigerians.

“The sustainability compact represents a commitment to future generations, requiring collective efforts from government, non-governmental organisations, the private sector, and communities,” NAN quoted Goronyo as saying.

“The introduction of the Sustainability Checks Action Plan aims to systematically monitor and track sustainability factors in WASH services.

“The initiative is supported by the government of Nigeria, UNICEF, and other partners in the WASH sector.”

He added that improving access to WASH services would be achieved through ensuring the long-term sustainability of the facilities.