The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Terlumun Utsev called for greater collaboration between religious institutions and government agencies to end open defecation in Nigeria by 2030.
Professor Utsev made this call during an advocacy visit to the Murshid of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Shehu Ahmad Saeed Galadanci, with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Mr. Richard Pheelangwah and other senior management staff.
He explained that the campaign, first launched in 2019, was re-inaugurated under Vice President Kashim Shettima, who now chairs its steering committee.
Utsev noted that 142 local government areas had already been declared open defecation-free, with Jigawa State being the only state to have fully met this goal.
He However reaffirmed the government’s determination to extend this success nationwide.
The Minister stressed onthe influence of Imams and religious leaders in shaping public behaviour, Emphasising the role of the Abuja National Mosque in spreading awareness.
“Through sermons, public teachings, and community engagement, the mosque can serve as a powerful platform to promote hygiene and sanitation practices across the country,” he stated.
The Minister urged religious leaders to incorporate sanitation messages into their teachings, ensuring that worshippers understand the importance of hygiene and the dangers of open defecation.
He also called for mosques to lead by example by providing adequate and accessible toilet facilities, setting a standard for cleanliness within religious institutions.
Beyond places of worship, he encouraged individuals to take responsibility for sanitation in their homes and workplaces, driving lasting behavioural change.
Utsev thanked the Murshid, Imams, and staff of the National Mosque, as well as the media and other stakeholders, for their support in advancing the campaign.
He expressed confidence that, with unity, commitment, and action, Nigeria could achieve its goal of becoming open defecation-free by 2030.
Responding the Murshid of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Shehu Galadanchi, Adam has pledged its commitment to the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign, a national initiative aimed at eliminating open defecation by 2030.
Professor Galadanchi who was represented by Prof. Kabir Adam, assured the government of full support in raising awareness about the importance of proper sanitation.
According to him, proper sanitation aligns with Islamic principles, stating that every household is religiously obligated to have a toilet, while open defecation is strictly discouraged.