Extra ₦5 Billion Needed To Build 11.6 Million Toilets Across Nigeria – Tinubu’s Minister Declares

The Minister of Water Resources, Professor Joseph Utsev, has expressed concern over funding challenges in a bid to address Open Defecation Free (ODF) by 2030.

During a press briefing in Abuja last weekend, Utsev stated that while the initiative required an annual budget of ₦10 billion, only ₦5 billion had been released so far.

According to him, Nigeria requires an additional 11.6 million toilets to achieve the ODF goal. He emphasized that reaching ODF status encompasses more than merely constructing toilets.

Utsev acknowledged that significant advancements had been made, yet ensuring both access to and the appropriate utilization of these facilities continues to pose a significant challenge.

“The challenge is not only the number of toilets available but also raising awareness and encouraging their consistent use.

“This is why we are elevating the campaign to a higher level. The vice president will lead the relaunch of our strategy in a more impactful way,” he said.

The Minister further stated that development partners like UNICEF had made significant contributions by providing toilet facilities, training and awareness campaigns.

“Our partners do not provide funds directly but support through the supply of toilets and training programmes, their efforts have been invaluable in driving this campaign forward,” he said.

Since the campaign’s initiation in 2019, Utsev stated that 135 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and more than 30,000 communities have attained Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, with additional regions currently in the verification process.

He emphasized that, notwithstanding these accomplishments, the journey towards achieving universal sanitation is still extensive, particularly in underserved and vulnerable communities.

“Ending open defecation is about more than toilets, it’s about improving health, boosting productivity, and enhancing the dignity and safety of our citizens,” the minister emphasised.

Naija News understands that the event was part of activities marking the 2024 World Toilet Day with the theme ‘Sanitation for Peace,’ which underscores the significance of toilets as symbols of safety, dignity and development.