Nigeria's Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has highlighted the urgent need for an additional 11.6 million toilets to achieve the country's Open Defecation Free (ODF) target by 2030.

Utsev shows the multifaceted challenges that lie ahead, despite notable progress since the campaign's inception in 2019. "Ending open defecation is about more than toilets," Utsev emphasized. "It’s about improving health, boosting productivity, and enhancing the dignity and safety of our citizens."

The minister acknowledged the substantial efforts made, with 135 local government areas and over 30,000 communities already achieving ODF status. However, he pointed out that ensuring access to and proper use of sanitation facilities remains a critical hurdle.

Financial constraints pose a significant challenge, as only ₦5 billion of the required ₦10 billion annual budget has been released. Despite these limitations, development partners such as UNICEF have played a crucial role by providing toilet facilities, training, and awareness campaigns.

"Our partners do not provide funds directly but support through the supply of toilets and training programmes," Utsev noted, highlighting their invaluable contributions.

The minister also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to the cause, stating that the "Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign" will be relaunched on November 19, coinciding with World Toilet Day.

This event aims to strengthen collaboration among state governors, community leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners. Vice President Kashim Shettima is set to lead the relaunch, which seeks to elevate the campaign to a higher level of impact.

Utsev called for renewed and collective action from the media, private sector, and local communities to raise awareness and ensure behavioral change at all levels.

"The campaign remains a critical component of Nigeria’s efforts to improve sanitation and public health, with the 2025 ODF target in sight but requiring sustained momentum to achieve," he stated.