The Lagos State Government has insisted that a strict observance of hygiene and sanitation increases the lifespan in any society, and abhorring open defecation while embracing the use of toilets will make this possible.
This was emphasised during the Launch of “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign” in Somolu Local Government Area on Thursday.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mr Omobolaji Tajudeen Gaji charged residents to usher in a new era of cleanliness and improved sanitation in Local Government and its environs.
Represented by a Director in the Sanitation Department of the Ministry, Mrs Omoyeni Balogun, Gaji urged everyone to support the campaign with unwavering determination and enthusiasm, noting that for a clean and safe toilet, everyone must work together.
He said the campaign targets 2025 to achieve the goal of eradicating open defecation in Nigeria by freely promoting the construction and use of toilets in public places to ensure access to clean and safe sanitation facilities.
The Permanent Secretary emphasised that “The Campaign is not just a call for change but a call for collective action from all citizens to work assiduously to achieve a cleaner and healthier Lagos.
He explained that the campaign starts with raising awareness about the importance of using toilets and proper sanitation practices in all communities; governments at all levels prioritising and investing in sanitation infrastructure and businesses with the private sector joining hands with the government to support the noble cause.
Gaji assured the residents that the government would continually improve public health, reduce the spread of diseases, protect the water sources and enhance the overall quality of life for all Nigerians.
In his welcome address, the Chairman, Somolu Local Government, Hon. Abdul Hamed Salawu expressed his appreciation to the State Government for bringing such an initiative to the community.
Salawu, represented by the Supervisor for Environment in the LG, Hon. Olumide Akinola, said the lack of Sanitation and Hygiene are factors that cause various diseases that affect human existence.
He said the Local Government was ready to support the “Clean Lagos: Use the Toilet Campaign” in order to put a stop to the barbaric act that damages the environment.
