Environmental and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) stakeholders in Nigeria are deeply engaged in the country’s ambitious goal of eradicating Open Defecation by 2030. This target has raised varied responses among stakeholders as concerns persist over the feasibility of meeting the deadline. With over 48 million Nigerians still practising open defecation, according to the 2021 WASH NORM data, the journey remains challenging. While some experts doubt achieving this objective within the set timeframe, others remain optimistic, noting the need for sustained commitment and collective action from all sectors.
Additionally, the Federal Government initially aimed to end open defecation by 2025 but later extended the deadline to 2030 to allow for more comprehensive planning and execution. This shift underscores the issue’s complexity, which requires Infrastructure development and significant behavioural change among citizens. Open defecation remains a critical Public Health concern, contributing to the spread of diseases and undermining efforts to improve Sanitation and hygiene across the country. Ayo Adebusoye, a lawyer and development consultant, is among those who doubt the feasibility of the 2030 target.
Sanitation experts expressed their concern about the deadline.
As the Chairman of the Lagos Civil Society Participation for Development, Adebusoye argues that there is little evidence to suggest that the country is on track to meet this goal. He emphasises the lack of intentionality in government efforts, pointing to the deteriorating state of Waste Management in Lagos State. According to him, the destabilisation of the Lagos Waste Management Authority during the past administration has led to increased refuse dumping and open defecation in many areas. Adebusoye further stresses the need for strategic placement of public toilets, particularly in high-traffic areas like motor parks, and calls for stricter enforcement of sanitation laws.
On the other hand, Ms. Titilayo Ogedengbe, an environmental officer with the Ojodu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos, expresses optimism about the 2030 deadline. She acknowledges the prevalence of improper disposal in areas like the Berger Bus Stop but notes that the Lagos State Government has implemented measures to address the issue. These measures include campaigns to raise awareness and provide adequate toilet facilities in the area. Ogedengbe also highlights the role of development partners like WaterAid Nigeria in driving behavioural change among residents. She believes that sustained efforts can eradicate open defecation in 2030.
Infrastructure gaps could pose challenges to meeting the target.
In addition, the challenges to ending open defecation in the region are multifaceted. Infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural areas, remain a major barrier. Many households lack access to basic toilet facilities, forcing residents to resort to improper defecation. Even in urban areas, the availability of public toilets is often inadequate, and existing facilities are frequently poorly maintained. Behavioural change is another critical factor. Decades of poor sanitation practices have normalised open disposal in many communities, making it difficult to instil new habits. Addressing these issues requires infrastructure development, public awareness campaigns, and strict enforcement of sanitation laws.
Meanwhile, the role of local governments cannot be overstated. As the tier of government closest to the people, local councils are uniquely positioned to drive change at the grassroots level. However, many local governments lack the resources and capacity to implement effective sanitation programs. Partnerships with development organisations and the Private Sector are essential to bridge this gap. For instance, Save the Children has supported the Somolu Local Government Area in Lagos to end improper disposal by providing infrastructure and promoting community ownership. However, the Sustainability of such interventions remains a concern, as communities often struggle to maintain the facilities after development partners withdraw.
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Lastly, achieving this goal will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, development partners, private sector, and citizens. Ultimately, the success of these efforts to end the act will depend on the commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders. While scepticism is understandable given the scale of the challenge, the progress made in some areas offers hope that the goal is achievable. With sustained efforts and a focus on infrastructure and behavioural change, the region can pave the way for a cleaner, healthier future for its citizens.