Katsina LG Launches Two-Week Campaign To End Open Defecation In 290 Communities

The Katsina Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State has flagged off a two-week intensive campaign to eliminate open defecation across 290 communities.

Chairman of the council, Alhaji Isah Miqdad, disclosed this on Wednesday in Katsina while unveiling the initiative tagged “A New Chapter for Katsina LG.”

Miqdad explained that the programme, which combines community sensitisation, awareness, and sanitation exercises, is aimed at protecting public health and restoring community dignity.

According to him, more than 70 sanitation workers have been deployed to identify open defecation sites, rehabilitate refuse dumps, and clean public spaces across the local government.

“Our goal is to secure certification from UNICEF and other relevant agencies declaring Katsina LG Open Defecation Free (ODF). This is a rigorous process,” he stated.

He warned that open defecation is a major driver of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea, which cost Nigeria an estimated 1.3 percent of its annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“This campaign is about changing habits and saving lives. It places dignity at the heart of our collective responsibility,” Miqdad emphasised.

The council chairman further appealed to religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth organisations, and civil society groups to take ownership of the campaign by spreading awareness within their communities.

“From mosque pulpits to community grounds, your voices will make the difference,” he said.

He also disclosed that Katsina LGA will strengthen community monitoring systems, sustain sanitation education, promote regular handwashing practices, and improve waste management services to prevent relapse after the campaign.

Miqdad appreciated the state government and development partners for their technical and financial support in promoting water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programmes in the area.

He added: “Our vision is to make Katsina LG one of the cleanest and healthiest in the state. Every household must have safe sanitation. Every community must be free of open defecation. Every child must grow in an environment safe from preventable diseases.”