The Federal Government in conjunction with UNICEF and other critical Water Hygiene and Sanitation (WASH) Stakeholders have pledged their commitment to advancing Nationwide access to Water Sanitation and Hygiene services.
Director Press and Public Relations of the Ministry, Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan in a statement on Thursday said, the pledge was made in Abuja during the Annual Federal Government of Nigeria/United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) WASH Review meeting.
According to the statement, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, reiterated Federal Government’s steadfast dedication to advancing Nationwide access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Services (WASH) and also emphasized the pivotal role of WASH in fostering Socio-economic Development by promoting public health, reducing disease burdens, and laying a foundation for Sustainable Growth and well-being.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, ensuring the availability and Sustainable Management of Water and Sanitation for all, and ending Open Defecation in the country. He also underscored the impact of the Federal Government’s commitment to the National WASH policy, SchoolWASH, YouthWASH, and HealthWASH initiatives.
Prof. Utsev urged participants to spotlight Policies and Programmes to address WASH deficits, reflect on accomplishments, and foster innovative Strategies to expedite growth in this critical Sector.
Earlier at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Shinkafi, FNCA, represented by the Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation, Mrs. Elizabeth Ugoh, emphasized the importance of the WASH Sector’s Annual Review meeting. He highlighted the need for a collective understanding of achievements, lessons learned, and setting priorities for 2024 and beyond.
The Permanent Secretary expressed appreciation for the commendable efforts of Development Partners and UNICEF, recognizing their significant contributions to successfully attain WASH objectives.
UNICEF Deputy Representative, Dr. Rownak Khan, urged the Federal Government and WASH Sector Stakeholders to intensify efforts in attaining SDG 6. While acknowledging the strides made by the Federal Government, Dr. Khan emphasized the need for unwavering commitment and advocated for robust policies to guarantee access to safe drinking water and a Nation free from Open Defecation by 2025.
Present at the Review Meeting were UNICEF Chief of WASH, Jane Bevan, representatives of States’ RUWASSA, a representative of WaterAid, representatives of line Ministries (Environment, Health, Bureau of Statistics), and other eminent stakeholders.
