The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to improving Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services across the nation.
This commitment was highlighted by Mrs. Elizabeth Ugo, Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, during a state-inception event on WASH Systems held in Kano on Tuesday.
Ugo, represented by Chief Scientific Officer Hajiya Amina Musa, emphasized the significant benefits that investment in water and sanitation brings to both individuals and the nation.
She noted that access to clean water, adequate sanitation, and proper hygiene practices are essential for human health and dignity. Despite this, many communities continue to face challenges in these areas, affecting their health, economic stability, and overall quality of life.
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“Our aim is to address these challenges by working together with local communities, governmental and non-governmental agencies, and international partners,” Ugo stated. “We aim to build resilient WASH systems that are sustainable, inclusive, and capable of meeting the needs of all individuals, particularly the vulnerable.”
Ugo also highlighted the importance of water quality for human health, environmental sustainability, and economic development. She mentioned the Federal Government’s establishment of a state-of-the-art water quality laboratory in Kano, calling it a significant milestone in ensuring safe and clean water for all.
“Carrying out regular water quality testing helps to identify contaminants, ensure compliance, monitor systems, and protect public health,” she explained. “Our laboratory is equipped with advanced technology and staffed with skilled professionals dedicated to providing accurate and reliable water quality assessments. We encourage stakeholders to utilise this facility to help maintain the highest standards of water safety.”
Ugo commended the efforts of development partners and stakeholders, whose support and collaboration have been instrumental in the success of the WASH program.
Speaking at the event, Mr. John Wali, Programme Manager for WASH Systems Strengthening, outlined the program’s objectives. Funded by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) with a budget of 5 million pounds, the four-year WASH Systems for Health (WS4H) initiative aims to enhance access to and utilisation of inclusive, reliable, and resilient WASH services in Nigeria and Sierra Leone, with a particular focus on empowering women and girls.
Wali stressed that the program is geared towards strengthening foundational pillars such as institutions, policies, and regulations. He highlighted the involvement of Self Help Africa (SHA), an international development organisation based in Dublin, Ireland, which has been active in Nigeria since 1999. SHA has achieved significant milestones, including facilitating Nigeria’s first open defecation-free local government area in 2016.
“In Nigeria, as implementing partners, SHA will forge strategic alliances with the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, alongside state governments and relevant institutions, in conjunction with a consortium of partners,” Wali stated.
The event underscored the government’s ongoing efforts and collaboration with various stakeholders to improve WASH services and enhance the quality of life for all Nigerians.
(NAN)
