....As State Flags Off Open Defecation Free/Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign in Ikorodu Division.
The Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo - Olu on Thursday called on everyone to support the maintenance of public sanitation facilities and demand hygiene wherever they go in order to make Lagos an Open Defecation Free (ODF) State.
She made this call during the Flag- Off ceremony of Open Defecation Free and Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign in Lagos State held at Ikorodu Musical Village saying it pertinent to encourage households to build toilets as the days of defecating in bushes, on beaches, and behind buildings must come to an end.
The First Lady who was represented by Mrs Victoria Olowu highlighted the theme for the campaign “Lagos State Open Defecation Free Campaign Enhances Dignity, Protects Public Health.” as very apt because there is no dignity in defecating in the open but true dignity lies in having access to clean toilets and safe hygiene practices for every man, woman, boy, and girl.
She said the official flag-off of the Open Defecation Free (ODF) and Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign in Lagos State is a campaign aimed at fostering a healthier more dignified and environmentally responsible society.
According to her, As most of us gathered here today are aware, open defecation is not just a rural issue, it affects urban spaces, markets, motor parks, slums, and even some of our communities right here in Lagos.
She added that the consequences are dire ranging from the spread of cholera, typhoid, diarrhea, and other infectious diseases, to environmental degradation that affects the water sources and pollutes shared spaces.
The First Lady explained that apart from the negative environmental impacts, attitude of Open Defecation strips the state of the dignity, endangers the health, and undermines the aspirations for a cleaner, smarter, and safer Lagos.
She said the availability and use of decent sanitation facilities must become the new normal at markets, motor parks, across schools and public institutions, and in every community.
She added that all residents must intensify awareness about the use of clean, safe, and accessible public toilets.
saying that explains why the campaign is timely and important.
She called on community leaders, religious bodies, women groups, youth associations, and indeed all Lagosians to take ownership of the campaign and drive the message home.
"On a specific note, I want to acknowledge the level of enforcement across the State particularly on the Berger corridor of the Lagos Ibadan Expressway, the axis now wear a different look from its former filthy state. This is commendable and must not only be sustained but equally extended to every other part of the State" she said
Dr. Sanwo - Olu commended the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, all partners in the WASH sector, community stakeholders, and the private sector for coming together to champion the noble cause stressing that everyone must spread awareness and not diseases.
She said it is essential for all to build toilets and not excuses and move Lagos forward in order to achieve the clean, safe, and dignified step at a time.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi - Akodu earlier in his welcome address noted that the flag - off marked a significant milestone in the collective pursuit of a healthier, safer and more dignified State.
He said the mission goes beyond eliminating open defecation, but it is a powerful statement of the collective commitment fostering a cultural shift by empowering Lagosians to adopt safe hygiene practices, preserve their environments and protect public health.
"We are not just aiming for ODF status for Lagos; we are building a legacy of sanitation excellence that reflects the vibrancy, resilience and leadership of the state. These behavioral changes will ripple outward, creating cleaner streets, safer waterways, and healthier homes for generations to come."
"It is our belief that with strengthened partnerships, increased public awareness, community engagement, and targeted investment, we can eliminate open defecation , reduce water-related diseases, and promote the hygiene culture that a smart, resilient megacity like Lagos deserves" he said.
In his lecture titled "Why Lagos must be clean: Lagos State Efforts" the Director Sanitation Services Department, Office of Environmental Services Dr. Hassan Sanuth said open defecation derogates the dignity of human existence.
He stressed that a clean and healthy environment is essential for public safety, economic development as well as overall quality of life of every citizen.
He enjoined every one to join hands with the Lagos State Government in its effort to put Lagos on the pedestal of an Open Defecation Free State.
0 Comments