The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has scaled up sensitisation activities to ensure the sustainability of the open defecation-free status in Jigawa.

The agency’s director, Ahmad Tijjani, said this in an interview with journalists on Saturday in Dutse, the state capital.

He said the campaign was designed to promote good sanitation habits to maintain the ODF status as declared by the federal government in 2022.

Mr Tijjani said the agency, through the Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers (COMOs), extended its outreach to markets, motor parks and other public places to create awareness of the dangers associated with open defecation.

“The personnel have carried out the campaign in 22 of the 27 local government areas of the state to end open defecation and improve public health.

“The campaign is part of statewide engagement with key stakeholders to maintain ODF status in the state.

“The agency believes that a lot could be achieved through the campaign at the grassroots,” he said.

While calling for more collaboration among stakeholders, Mr Tijjani urged the residents to maintain a clean environment and ensure proper personal hygiene.

(NAN)