From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The federal government has called on partners from both the private sector partners and financial institutions to collaborate with the government in advancing the nation’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector.
Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation Bello Muhammad Goronyo stated this while speaking at a two-day consultation workshop, the themed, “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet,” in Lagos ,
He called for greater involvement from the private sector and financial institutions to close the funding gap and enhance the impact of these initiatives.
“The government cannot do it alone. This is why we are urging the private sector to play a crucial role in bridging the gap. We have seen the success that can be achieved when we work together, as evidenced in Jigawa State and 126 local government areas, which are now open defecation-free” he stressed.
Goronyo who stressed that Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene play a crucial element in the nation’s socio-economic development highlighted the pivotal role of the WASH sector in improving the living standards of Nigerians.
He noted that the government has made substantial investments in this area noting that access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene directly impacts both rural and urban communities.
“The WASH sector is essential to our national development. As part of our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are tasked with ensuring clean water and sanitation for all by 2030,” Goronyo stated.
The Minister while emphasizing the SDG Goal 6, which focuses on providing equitable access to water and sanitation, stressed the need for collective action, particularly to end open defecation.
“This goal takes on greater significance when we consider the risks faced by women and girls, who are often exposed to indignity and danger due to the absence of proper sanitation facilities,” he added.
Goronyo who explained that the Federal Government has implemented several measures to address the challenges in the WASH sector, including the “Clean Nigeria Campaign” emphasized that these efforts are insufficient.
Goronyo explained that there is need for significant investment to meet Nation’s WASH goals, noting that an estimated $10 billion is required annually to achieve universal access to basic services by 2030—eight times the current investment.
However, he expressed optimism, that with active participation from the private sector, the nation with meet ths challenges.
“We are confident that the private sector can contribute up to 50% of the required investment, which will accelerate our progress and enable Nigeria to meet its commitments under the SDGs.” he added.
The Minister who lauded the ongoing partnerships UNICEF and microfinance banks urged all private sector, stakeholders to join this noble cause, by partnering the government to create a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria.
“Your involvement will be remembered as a cornerstone in the success of this campaign. History will recognize your contributions to the nation’s progress,” he added.
