From Godwin Agia, Jalingo
The Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN) on Friday conducted an advocacy visit to the Speaker of the Taraba House of Assembly, Hon. John Kizito Bonzena a measure to enhance water, sanitation, and hygiene services in Taraba State.
Taraba NEWSAN Coordinator, Mr. Boniface Koson, highlighted this during the visit in Jalingo.
It was gathered that the meeting was a followed up on NEWSAN’s “WASH Charter for Demands,” signed by various political candidates, including Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, during the 2023 general elections.
The Coordinator explained that the visit aimed to leverage the charter to encourage and remind the signatories to prioritize climate-resilient water and sanitation services in their communities. Boniface stated, “NEWSAN members are experts in various WASH fields and have trained facilitators, consultants, and technical support personnel over the years to achieve this goal.
“We are here to solicit your support and inclusion of a budget line towards ending open defecation in Taraba State between 2025 and 2030.
“Taraba State is at the center of the northeast, with migrants from Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, and other neighboring states, and there are inadequate facilities. Hence, we need to advocate for collaboration to achieve the target.”
According to NEWSAN National Deputy Coordinator, Mr. Princewill Mordi, also spoke, urging the government to ensure the availability of safe drinking water for residents. He emphasized the need for improved public perception, increased political prioritization, adequate funding, and strong policies and institutions.
Responding, Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, and representative of Zing, Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, thanked the team for reminding them of their responsibilities.
Bonzena, who was represented by the Deputy Clerk, Mr. Atsobra Musa, noted that the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas has shown commitment to addressing water challenges.
“As it is budget time, we will ensure the inclusion of water sanitation and hygiene in various ministries to minimize, if not eradicate, open defecation and provide safe and clean drinking water, as well as a safe environment for our people.
“ We are ever ready to partner with you to achieve these goals”, he said.
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