FG, UNICEF pledge support for Effective WASH Policies Implementing

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

UNICEF has pledged its commitment to ensuring the success of Nigeria’s Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) policy, a move that aims to save the lives of millions of vulnerable individuals in the country.

The WASH Specialist for UNICEF Nigeria, Chisom Adimorah, made this announcement during a meeting of the Technical Committee for the Development of a National WASH Policy and implementation strategy, held in Abuja.

In her address, Adimorah expressed the readiness of the UN agency to support the processes required for the development of an acceptable policy and implementation strategy.

She maintained that UNICEF’s primary objective is to ensure that vulnerable individuals, particularly children, have access to adequate WASH facilities, thus preventing avoidable deaths.

Adimorah commended the collaborative efforts of the federal ministries of Water Resources, Environment, Health, and other stakeholders involved in the WASH project.

She recognized their significant contributions towards the development of the program.

The Technical Committee, inaugurated on April 3, 2023, by the former ministers of Water Resources and Environment, Suleiman Adamu and Mohammed Abdullahi respectively, convened to review comments, suggestions, and inputs on the shared Terms of Reference (ToR) of the committee.

The Director of Water Supply at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Chairman of the Technical Committee Dr. Nicholas Madu, emphasized that the meeting reflected the commitment of all stakeholders to advance the development and implementation of the National WASH Policy.

Madu highlighted the importance of improved WASH services in achieving human development outcomes, such as poverty reduction and inclusive growth, which are crucial for healthier living conditions among citizens.

Madu further emphasized that the ministry, together with other critical stakeholders, has intensified efforts to address the perceived imbalance in WASH service delivery across the country. The aim is to ensure that all regions have equal access to these vital services.

Mrs. Rita Okea, the Deputy Director of Environmental Health and Sanitation at the Federal Ministry of Environment, stressed the need to involve all critical stakeholders to ensure the success of the WASH project. Okea reiterated the ministry’s commitment to facilitating a smooth development process.

During the meeting, Head of Advocacy and Communication at WaterAid Mr. Kolawole Banwo, urged committee members to ensure the successful implementation of the WASH policy.

Banwo emphasized the importance of resolving any differences that may arise during the policy development process and maintaining the achievements made thus far.

The collaborative efforts of the Federal Government, UNICEF, and other stakeholders in developing effective WASH policies and strategies demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Nigeria’s vulnerable population.

The successful implementation of the National WASH Policy will provide access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene services, ultimately saving lives and fostering healthier communities nationwide.