RESIDENTS MUST SUPPORT MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC SANITATION FACILITIES - LASG
… Flags Off Open Defecation Free/Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign in Ikorodu Division
The Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, called on all residents to support the maintenance of public sanitation facilities and demand hygiene wherever they go, to make Lagos an Open Defecation Free (ODF) State.
She made this call during the Flag-Off ceremony of the Open Defecation Free and Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign in Lagos State held at Ikorodu Musical Village, saying it is pertinent to encourage households to build toilets as the days of defecating in bushes, on beaches, and behind buildings must come to an end.
The First Lady, who was represented by Mrs. Victoria Olowu described the theme for the campaign “Lagos State Open Defecation Free Campaign Enhances Dignity, Protects Public Health.” as very apt, stressing that there is no dignity in defecating openly as true dignity lies in having access to clean toilets and safe hygiene practices for every man, woman, boy, and girl.
She said the official Open Defecation Free (ODF) flag-off and Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign in Lagos State is a campaign aimed at fostering a healthier, more dignified, and environmentally responsible society.
According to her, "Most of us gathered here today are aware, open defecation is not just a rural issue; it affects urban spaces, markets, motor parks, slums, and even some of our communities right here in Lagos".
She added that the consequences are dire, ranging from the spread of cholera, typhoid, diarrhoea, and other infectious diseases to environmental degradation that affects the water sources and pollutes shared spaces.
The First Lady explained that apart from negative environmental impacts, the attitude of Open Defecation strips the state of dignity, endangers health, and undermines the aspirations for a cleaner, smarter, and safer Lagos.
She said the availability and use of decent sanitation facilities must become the new normal at markets, motor parks, across schools and public institutions, and in every community.
The First Lady added that all residents must intensify awareness about the use of clean, safe, and accessible public toilets, saying that this explains why the campaign is timely and important.
She called on community leaders, religious bodies, women's groups, youth associations, and indeed all Lagosians to take ownership of the campaign and drive the message home.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi - Akodu, earlier in his welcome address, noted that the flag-off marked a significant milestone in the collective pursuit of a healthier, safer and more dignified state.
He said the mission goes beyond eliminating open defecation, but it is a powerful statement of the collective commitment fostering a cultural shift by empowering Lagosians to adopt safe hygiene practices, preserve their environments and protect public health.
In his lecture titled, "Why Lagos must be clean: Lagos State Efforts", the Director of Sanitation Services Department, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Hassan Sanuth, said open defecation derogates the dignity of human existence.
He stressed that a clean and healthy environment is essential for public safety, economic development, as well as the overall quality of life of every citizen.
He, therefore, enjoined everyone to join hands with the Lagos State Government in its effort to put Lagos on the pedestal of an Open Defecation Free State.
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