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By Samuel Torlumun
Its maiden unveiling of a national project to end open defecation attracted Nigerians from all walks of life. Politicians, administrators, captains of industries, civil society organizations, heads of MDAs, development partners, public spirited individuals, student leadership, and the general public converged in Abuja, to welcome a project that will end open defecation by 2030, an initiative of Immediate Help Foundation, IHF.
With its membership drawn across the country, over 26 states leadership of IHF were in attendance.
Calling the shot, in his opening remark, the Executive Director, IHF David Abuchi Nwaneri said the unveiling of the project marked a pivotal step in a collective journey towards improving sanitation, health, and dignity for
every Nigerian.
He stated that open defecation posed, not just a common public health challenge, it bothers on human rights, environmental sustainability and national development.
He said the consequences of open defecation are far reaching, affecting gravely, children and the vulnerable in the society.
“IHF believes that with 1% commitment, collaboration and community driven solutions, open defecation can be eradicated from our country.
“This project is not about building toilets, it is about changing mindsets, empowering communities and creating sustainable system for hygiene and sanitation” he pointed out.
Also speaking, chairman of the launching, Air Vice Marshall (Rtd) Akugbe Iyamu Kenneth, former Director General, National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA applauded the vision behind IHF saying “if you can see it, you can do it. That is the most important thing. With passion, greater heights are achieved”.
Former NEMA boss who narrated how he started as a writer said, over time he has made considerable inroads in the field, having about 800 articles on environment and 500 appearances on Television.
He noted that open defecation in Nigeria needs immediate action because it is an emergency, adding that the name of the foundation suites the expectations.
According to him, “open defecation is the phenomenon of the world. In Bangladash, you don’t need to go far, just enter a house and the convenience doors are open for you.
“Open defecation is no longer a hazard; it is a multi-billion Dollar enterprise. For instance, India, every year, takes 20 million people out of poverty through open defecation. Same is the situation in China and Philippines”.
He bemoaned the state of public toilets in Nigeria saying it is an aberrative of a convenience and a restroom, as seen in advanced countries.
IHF major preoccupation is to empower African communities and create a measurable 1% positive impact by providing sustainable solutions, promoting social justice, and fostering partnerships to address pressing challenges across the continent.
It intends to create an African community where individuals have access to quality life, equal opportunities, and a chance to thrive, leading to a 1% increase in overall well-being and happiness.
Highlight of the event included launching for the projects, presentation of certificate to leaders of the NGO, flag-off of the prototype national secretariat, group photograph, among others.
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