Abuja to be Open Defecation Free next year – RUWASSA boss

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is working towards making Abuja, the nation’s capital territory Open Defecation Free (ODF) by next year, according to the overseeing director, FCT Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Mr Luke Ifop.
Ifop noted that it is important for governments at all levels to provide and promote safe, inclusive, and climate-resilient sanitation systems and facilities, which according to him, will help to prevent sanitation crisis in FCT and all states of the federation.
He spoke during the commemoration of the 2024 World Toilet Day 4 in Bwari, a suburb of Abuja.
The Director, who spoke through the Head of Sanitation, FCT RUWASSA, Mrs. Aisha Bakpet, declared that that open defecation is largely responsible for outbreaks of cholera, typhoid among others.
He added that this year’s theme: “Toilets, A Place for Peace,” highlights the critical need for stakeholders, to take decisive action to safeguard sanitation systems, and toilets from threats that render them unsafe or inaccessible.
According to him: “These challenges affect entire communities, including men, women, children, persons with disabilities, and those living in humanitarian crises and therefore, called on residents to maintain decent toilets in their houses to prevent the outbreak of diseases and embrace hygienic practices.”
On his part, the Chairman, Bwari Area Council, John Gabaya, thanked the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for demonstrating unwavering commitment towards making FCT one of the leading capital cities of the world.
He appreciated the FCT–RUWASSA for their efforts and numerous advocacy and activities in the Area Council.
“Ending open defecation in the FCT is a priority for all of us and we in Bwari are sparing no effort to achieve this objective.”