In a move aimed at tackling the issue of open defecation in Nigeria, the Ministry of Water Resources has joined forces with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to launch a nationwide campaign. This partnership, announced on January 20, 2025, is a step forward in the fight against one of the country’s most pressing public health challenges.
Open defecation remains a major concern across many parts of Nigeria, with millions of people, particularly in rural areas, lacking access to proper sanitation facilities. The consequences of this practice are far-reaching, contributing to the spread of diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and other sanitation-related illnesses that affect both urban and rural populations. According to the United Nations, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of open defecation in the world, which has had a devastating impact on public health.
Through this partnership, the NYSC will leverage its vast network of corps members deployed in various communities across the country to promote awareness and advocate for cleaner, healthier living conditions. Corps members will be tasked with educating local populations on the dangers of open defecation and encouraging the construction and use of proper toilet facilities. The Ministry of Water Resources, in turn, will provide technical support, resources, and guidance on how to build sustainable sanitation systems in areas most affected by this issue.
The program is expected to not only address immediate sanitation challenges but also create long-term solutions by engaging communities in building infrastructure and improving health education. Corps members will play an instrumental role by working directly with local leaders, stakeholders, and the general public to spread the message of proper sanitation practices.
In addition to raising awareness, the collaboration will also focus on developing strategies for local governments and communities to implement and maintain clean sanitation facilities. The NYSC’s presence in communities offers a unique opportunity to effect change, especially in areas where traditional efforts have failed to make a significant impact.
This initiative is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to improve its sanitation standards and achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which calls for universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030. The partnership between the Ministry of Water Resources and NYSC is a significant step toward making open defecation a thing of the past and ensuring a healthier future for Nigerians.
The collaboration has already received positive reactions from various stakeholders, with many applauding the innovative approach of involving the youth in national development. As the campaign gathers momentum, it is hoped that more communities across the country will embrace the importance of sanitation, contributing to a cleaner and healthier Nigeria.
