Only 2% of Kano Residents Still Practise Open Defecation – UNICEF

• UNICEF commended Kano State for reducing open defecation to only 2%, celebrating progress in 26 out of 44 local government areas
• The organization urged Kano State to sustain efforts and eliminate open defecation in the remaining 18 local government areas, especially urban areas

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended Kano State for its significant progress in reducing open defecation, revealing that only 2% of the state’s population now engages in the practice.

This milestone was celebrated during commemorating the 2024 World Toilet Day, themed “Toilet — A Place for Peace.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, Chief of UNICEF Field Office in Kano, praised the Kano State Government and its partners for their efforts in eradicating open defecation in 26 out of the state’s 44 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

Represented by Mr. Michael Banda, Senior Education Manager and Officer-in-Charge, UNICEF, Farah highlighted the progress in achieving open defecation-free status in eight additional LGAs in 2024.

“This achievement underscores the collective efforts of the Government, LGAs, communities, and stakeholders. While the progress is commendable, there is still work to be done.

We urge Kano State to sustain the momentum and take urgent actions to eliminate open defecation in the remaining 18 LGAs, particularly in urban areas,” he stated.

Farah emphasized that while 2% may appear small, it is a significant number compared to Kano’s large population. He stressed the importance of intensified and strategic efforts to address the issue fully.

“With your Excellency’s continued support, Kano State can achieve its goal of becoming open defecation-free by 2025. Achieving this milestone will not only fulfill the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 on clean water and sanitation but also contribute to other SDGs such as 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities),” he said.

Farah lauded the Community Approaches to Total Sanitation Concept, which promotes inclusiveness, gender mainstreaming, and active community participation.

He noted that proper sanitation has far-reaching benefits beyond health, including empowerment, equality, and sustainable community development.

UNICEF urged Kano State to maintain its commitment and focus on completely eradicating open defecation, which will serve as a model for other states and contribute to Nigeria’s national sanitation goals.