In Nigeria, over 100 million people lack access to basic sanitation, contributing to widespread hygiene challenges and health risks. As a result of situations like this, Harpic, a prominent hygiene company, has joined forces with the federal and Lagos governments to tackle the sanitation issues that affect numerous Nigerians in urban and rural regions. This collaboration strives to enhance hygiene habits among the population, aligning with the central theme of the ‘Accelerating Change’ focus of the World Toilet Day in 2023. Through this vital initiative, a positive impact on sanitation practices can be achieved nationwide.
Recent information from the United Nations has highlighted the alarming situation in Nigeria, revealing an estimated 48 million engaging in the unsanitary practice of open defecation. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, Harpic has proactively initiated a series of programs designed to raise awareness about the importance of cleanliness and hygiene. The staggering numbers underscore the critical need for concerted efforts to address the sanitation challenges faced by a significant portion of the population, emphasizing the importance of initiatives that not only provide access to sanitation facilities but also educate and promote hygienic practices among the citizens.
Harpic is committed to promoting cleanliness in Nigeria.
During a joint walk organized by the Federal Ministry of Environment and Lagos State Ministry of Water Resources and Environment, the gravity of the sanitation crisis took center stage. Backed by brand ambassador Helen Paul, Harpic reiterated its commitment to advancing cleanliness and advocating for hygienic living conditions. The collaborative event provided a crucial platform to underscore the urgent need for collective action in tackling the ongoing sanitation challenges, emphasizing the importance of concerted efforts to create a positive impact on hygiene and public health.
Additionally, Gaji Tajudeen, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Services in Lagos State, underscored the immediate requirement for broad public involvement in the mission to protect public health. He emphasized the critical role of cleanliness in averting the onslaught of diseases and illnesses on society. Tajudeen painted a stark picture of the detrimental consequences posed by open defecation on the quality of water, soil, and air, further accentuating the severity of the issue under consideration.
New policy ruling mandating government entities on sanitation.
Failure to take immediate action, Tajudeen warned, could undo the progress achieved before the 2030 deadline and return the country to a precarious position. Head of External Communications and Partnerships, Sub-Saharan Africa, Reckitt, Uzo-Ogbugh Cassandra, the corporate entity that owns Harpic, shared insights into the harmful consequences associated with the act of openly defecating. She stressed her organization’s unwavering commitment to tackling this prevailing global concern and playing a part in fostering a world that is both healthier and sustainable.
Minister Barabe Lawal took center stage, conveying the government’s unwavering dedication to granting Nigerians a pristine and more secure environment. Emphatically, he disclosed a policy ruling compelling all governmental entities overseeing developmental permissions to meticulously guarantee that structures boast fitting lavatory amenities. This strategic move carves a path for embedding sanitation awareness within urban arrangements, serving as a proactive breakthrough in upscaling hygiene standards altogether. Joseph Terlumun, the Minister responsible for Water Resources and Sanitation, echoed this promise by assuring that the government will assist in initiatives aimed at eliminating the issue of insufficient sanitation at the regional level.
Cooperation among government levels is crucial.
As well, the ministers highlighted the importance of cooperation among various government levels, as well as public and private sectors, emphasizing a shared goal of transforming Nigeria into a more sanitary and healthier nation. To summarize, the extended collaboration between Harpic and the Nigerian government, both federal and Lagos, marks a significant milestone in the united endeavour to tackle Nigeria sanitation issues. By utilizing a blend of informative campaigns, joint activities, and pertinent regulations, this scheme aims to establish a sustainable transformation, guaranteeing that every individual in Nigeria can avail themselves of fundamental sanitation services and reside in a clean and healthy surroundings.
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