YouthWASH Initiative Africa has urged all tiers of government to prioritise improving sanitation and eliminating open defecation in Nigeria.
The appeal comes as the organisation, in partnership with NYSC and the Clean Nigeria Campaign, prepares to mark the 5th anniversary of the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign.
YouthWASH Coordinator, Mr Nature Obiakor said that the role of young persons in promoting sustainable sanitation efforts cannot be overemphasised.
“As Nigeria battles the public health and environmental challenges posed by open defecation, YouthWASH and its partners are committed to empowering the next generation of sanitation leaders.
“The fight against open defecation requires a united effort, by equipping young people with the tools and platforms to lead, we can create a cleaner and healthier Nigeria”.
He hinted that the National YouthWASH Digital Media Hangout, organised to celebrate the campaign’s achievements, is scheduled to run from November 19 to December 19, 2024.
The theme is “Youth-Led Digital Action for Sustainable Sanitation”.
Obiakor explained that the campaign would feature a 10-day digital media countdown, with daily themes such as ‘The Journey So Far’ and ‘Sanitation and Climate Change’.
“Influencers, youth advocates, and workshops on digital advocacy will drive awareness on social media platforms.
“The main event will include discussions on key sanitation issues and the official launch of YouthWASH Clubs across NYSC camps and schools.
“These clubs aim to sustain sanitation advocacy through grassroots engagement and youth leadership.
“After the event, the campaign will focus on sustaining momentum by sharing digital content, monitoring the impact of YouthWASH Clubs, and organising mentorship sessions for young sanitation advocates”.
According to Obiakor, the initiative’s goals include highlighting the achievements of the Clean Nigeria Campaign in reducing open defecation.
He said leveraging digital platforms to educate and mobilise young people on sanitation and hygiene was important.
Obiakor emphasised the importance of youth involvement, stating that institutionalising sanitation awareness and ongoing training would ensure young leaders drive lasting change in Nigeria.
NAN
