In a bold move towards achieving a Nigeria free of open defecation by 2030, the Federal Government has turned to the Catholic Church for support, recognizing the influential role the faith-based community can play in this critical campaign.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, led a delegation, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, to the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Most Reverend Ignatius Kaigama, for an advocacy visit. The meeting, held in Abuja, underscored the urgency of collaboration in the fight against open defecation, which remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria.
In a statement released by his Media and Publicity Assistant, Terhemen Oraduen, the Minister highlighted that while there have been successes in the campaign — with 142 local governments now certified as open defecation free, and more nearing certification — the collective effort of all sectors is vital to meeting the 2030 target.
“We must do more, and we must do it together,” Utsev emphasized, calling for enhanced efforts to extend the campaign to the most remote areas of the country. He specifically pointed to the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja as a key partner in scaling up the message, particularly in educating communities about the severe health risks associated with open defecation.
The Minister appealed to Archbishop Kaigama to integrate the message of sanitation and hygiene into the Church’s teachings, asking for the inclusion of anti-open defecation messages in sermons and public outreach. He also encouraged the Church to provide sanitation facilities within its premises and to inspire behavioural changes among parishioners, especially in rural areas.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment, Professor Utsev assured the Church that technical support would be available whenever needed and emphasized the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to ensuring every Nigerian has access to clean water and sanitation services.
In response, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama expressed his gratitude for the visit, recognizing the Minister as the first serving government official to bring such a significant message to the Church. He commended the Minister’s focus on public health and hygiene, noting that the Catholic Church was fully committed to supporting the fight against open defecation.
“This is a campaign that requires a united effort,” Archbishop Kaigama stated. He acknowledged the crucial role that faith-based organizations play in influencing societal change and assured the Minister of the Church’s full support. The Archbishop further pledged to rally his fellow priests to champion the cause in their parishes, working toward a cleaner, healthier Nigeria for all.
The meeting signaled the beginning of a critical partnership between the government and the Church, as both institutions come together to tackle one of Nigeria’s most pressing public health issues.
