By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Borno State Government has officially launched a Roadmap for open Defecation free (ODF) in the state, signaling the beginning of a campaign to eradicate open defecation in all communities.
The Borno State First Lady , Dr. Falmata Zulum was also honoured by UNICEF as Borno State Ambassador of Open Defecation Free (ODF) and champion of cleanliness, sanitation and hygienic environment across the state.
The program, which took place at the Musa Usman conference center in Maiduguri, was unveiled by Governor Zulum, represented by the State Deputy Governor Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur.
In his speech, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of sanitation in improving people’s well-being and called for collective efforts to change the wash conditions of the people.
He urged relevant government agencies to focus on achieving safe water and sanitation options for all households, as well as the implementation of sustainable wash access in schools and public places.
Wife of the Borno State Governor thanked the organizers and UNICEF for the recognition and honour some to her and assured that she will not disappoint them and confidence reposed in her towards meeting up with the global standard a d requirement in the state.
The Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijjani, highlighted the significance of World Toilet Day on 19th November and stressed the importance of involving traditional rulers and religious leaders in the campaign for open defecation-free communities.
While the Borno State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr Tijjani Goni Alkali, stressed the importance of sanitation and clean water as fundamental human rights that should be guaranteed to all citizens.
He expressed optimism that by working together, housing defecation will become a thing of the past and individuals will be able to enjoy a dignified and healthy life.
The General Manager, Borno State RUWASSA, Engr Dr. Mohammed Musa Aliyu, presented key priorities in the roadmap to ending open defecation in Borno State while highlighting achievements and successes recorded under the Zulum administration under RUWASA among others.
UNICEF Country Director represented by UNICEF Maiduguri Field Office Borno State WASH Manager, Jamita Tharkkar commended the Borno State Government for its collaboration in the campaign against open defecation, noting that Biu and Shani had already achieved ODF status last year.
She assured the government of UNICEF’s support in ensuring that Borno State becomes open defecation-free(IDF).
The event was attended by royal fathers, including the Shehu of Dikwa and Emirate of Biu, Shani, Uba and that of Askira, as well as other dignitaries including the First Lady of Borno, Dr Falmata Babagana Umar Zulum, members of the State Executive Council, local government chairmen, special advisers, and traditional rulers.
