To tackle open defecation in the FCT, the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Directorate (RUWASSA), in partnership with WaterAid Nigeria, held a one-day workshop to present findings from a WASH Baseline Survey.
The survey assesses sanitation and hygiene conditions across communities, schools, and public spaces to guide policy and improve service delivery.
RUWASSA Director, Luke Ulom, said the data will help bridge service gaps and strengthen intervention efforts. He thanked partners like WaterAid and UNICEF for supporting WASH goals in Bwari and Kwali, with plans to expand efforts across the territory.
WaterAid’s Head of Programme, Nanpet Chuktu, reaffirmed support for safe water, sanitation, and hygiene practices in FCT area councils.
Representing the Agura of Zuba, Magajin Garin Zuba called for more toilets and public education to help achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.
UNICEF reports show only 148 of 774 LGAs in Nigeria are ODF, with the FCT yet to meet the mark. The 2021 WASH report also revealed 48 million Nigerians still defecate openly, while only 8% practice proper handwashing.
Stakeholders at the workshop included officials, NGOs, civil society, and traditional leaders.
