Twenty local governments in Kano have received certificates for attaining the ‘Open Defecation-Free’ status, bringing the total number of certified councils certified to 26.

Governor Abba Yusuf expressed optimism that the remaining councils would soon attain similar status through sustained efforts and advocacy.

Mr Yusuf reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving sanitation in Kano. He said six additional LGAs were on track to achieve the ODF status.

“Kano State will soon be declared Open Defecation Free,” the governor said.

He stated that the government had provided latrines and sanitary materials across a myriad of communities to eliminate the practice of open defecation and promote hygiene.

Earlier, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, described the ‘Clean Nigeria Campaign’ as a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.

Mr Utsev urged state governments to demonstrate strong political will and support in eliminating open defecation nationwide.

“The Clean Nigeria Campaign is not just a sanitation drive; it is a cornerstone of Mr President’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’,” he said.

According to him, ensuring access to clean water, decent toilets, and proper hygiene will contribute significantly to reducing disease outbreaks and achieving national development targets.

The minister called for stronger collaboration between the federal, state, and local governments, as well as active participation by the private sector and development partners.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to delivering on the goals of the campaign and urged all Nigerians to take ownership of the initiative.

Additionally, the Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, Abdulkadir Abdussalam, stated that the Yusuf-led administration is making steady progress in the campaign.

In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Health, Abubakar Labaran, said the success of the ODF campaign had led to a significant reduction in waterborne diseases in the state.

The ODF campaign is a global initiative aimed at ensuring people use toilets instead of defecating in open spaces. Achieving ODF status means over 95 per cent of the population in a given area no longer engages in open defecation.

The highlights of the event included the presentation of ODF certificates to the 20 LGAs and the award to Yusuf for his outstanding contributions to the campaign.

(NAN)