Author: Tosin Kolade

Fund social protection interventions to reduce poverty- EU tells governments
Fund social protection interventions to reduce poverty- EU tells governments
Poverty
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 29, 2024 (NAN) The European Union (EU) has urged the Federal and state governments to increase funding for social protection interventions, emphasising its importance in reducing poverty nationwide.
Mr Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation for the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, made the call in a communiqué at the end of the 3rd edition of the Social Protection Cross-Learning Summit (SPECS) in Abuja.
He described social protection as a crucial support system for vulnerable and poor households, providing both a safety net and hope.
The summit was organised by the Federal Ministry of Finance in collaboration with the Social Protection Development Partner Group (DPG) under the theme “Social Protection Towards Human Capital Development.”
De Luca stressed that social protection plays a vital role in human capital development by ensuring access to essential services such as education, health, and nutrition.
According to De Luca, this contributes to economic stability, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth, forming a strong foundation for the country’s overall development.
Referencing a World Bank report that estimated Nigeria’s poor population at 104 million, or 46 per cent, in 2023, De Luca stated, “Investing in social protection means investing in our collective future and fostering resilience”.
He said it would ensure that every individual had the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society in spite of background, location, or uncertainties.
He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to collaborate with the Nigerian government to address poverty.
“The EU is supporting Nigeria’s social protection sector with 46 million Euro in its 2021 to 2027 programming, aimed at system strengthening and the design of social safety net programmes.
“We are finalising processes with UNICEF and GIZ to implement the project in the focal states,” he said.
De Luca added that the intervention would enhance the social protection system, focusing on the interoperability of related databases, maintaining a functional shock-responsive social register.
He added that the initiative was also supporting safety net programmes in three North East states targeting communities affected by climate change. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

June 29, 2024
Nigeria seeks ECOWAS unity to enhance regional water supply
ECOWAS
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 28, 2024 (NAN) Nigerian Government has called on member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to unite in their efforts to improve water supply in the region.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, made this call at the 5th Ordinary Session of the Ministerial Monitoring Committee (MMC) of the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in West Africa on Friday in Abuja.
Utsev said West Africa was blessed with abundance water resources and commended the Water Resources Management Centre (WRMC) for choosing Nigeria to host the meeting.
According to him, if properly harnessed and coordinated, it will serve as a cornerstone for development; impacting positively on health, education, tourism, food security and energy.
“However, lack of proper coordination will lead to underdevelopment and conflict among countries because activities of one country at the upstream could constitute danger to other countries downstream.
“Permit me at this juncture to emphasise on the need for unity amongst member states in the West African sub-region.
“There is a saying that “teamwork makes the dream work”, this can also be said about our sub-region.
“To truly see growth in the sub-region; we need to be united and work as a team especially when it comes to the management of our water resources, both surface and underground.’’
The minister said the sub-region had great potential and, by working together, could address challenges like climate change, poverty, unemployment and inequality.
Utsev thanked the Water Resources Management Centre (WRMC) for selecting Nigeria as one of the few West African countries to benefit from the 2024 ECOWAS Special Project for Access to Drinking Water in Rural Areas.
“We are grateful for this privilege and will use our expertise to ensure the project is delivered seamlessly,’’ he said.
Earlier, Dr Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, represented by Mr Sediko Douka, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitisation, expressed gratitude to Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu for hosting the event.
He noted West African states’ ongoing dedication to Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), which began in 1998 after the UN Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro.
According to him, this commitment led to the adoption of a Regional IWRM Action Plan in 2000 and the establishment of a Permanent Coordination and Monitoring Framework (PCMF) in 2001.
Touray said the relationship between challenges in the water and energy sectors, emphasising the urgency to expedite projects that provide clean water and sanitation.
He called for technical and financial support for a regional programme focused on improving access to clean water in rural and peri-urban areas.
Touray expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government for hosting the meeting and expressed confidence that the discussions would be a significant milestone for implementing IWRM in West Africa.
He also thanked the Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for his leadership in the PCMF.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Abuja meeting, held nearly nine years after the last session in Dakar, Senegal.
It aims to rejuvenate the PCMF and evaluate the implementation of the West Africa Water Resources Policy (WAWRP), adopted in 2008.
The WAWRP is a distinctive initiative aimed at developing a unified sectoral policy among West African regional organisations.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo
June 28, 2024
Kano commits N1.9bn to water, sanitation interventions
Water
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The Kano State Government has earmarked over N1.9 billion in its 2024 budget for the development of water and sanitation infrastructure to improve the lives of its residents.
Mrs Binta Lawani, Permanent Secretary, Kano State Ministry of Rural Community Development, announced this at the two-day WASH Systems for Health (WS4H) National Training Workshop on Thursday in Abuja.
The WS4H programme, convened by SelfHelp Africa, is a £5 million FCDO-funded initiative to improve access to inclusive, reliable, and climate-resilient water and sanitation services in Cross River and Kano States.
Lawani said that the intervention was necessary, following Kano’s large population and the urgent need to enhance access to potable water and sanitation facilities.
She said that the state recognised addressing the issue as a priority for inclusive development and environmental improvement.
Lawani also said that the written agreement demonstrated the government’s commitment, not only in terms of counterpart financing but also in allocating budget funds where they were most needed.
Joy Aderele, Country Director of SelfHelp Africa, noted that the workshop aimed to strengthen institutions, political will, and stakeholder commitment, vital for sustainable WASH initiatives.
According to her, there is a need for a holistic approach to WASH, emphasising that it should be a comprehensive service rather than just infrastructure, as this can lead to more effective and sustainable solutions.
“Defining clear indicators to measure the strength of the WASH system is vital; these indicators should cover aspects such as accessibility, reliability, sustainability and impact on health.
“Regular monitoring and evaluation will help track progress and identify areas for improvement,’’ she said.
The country director, however, said that leveraging learnings from SHA’s 24 projects across 10 countries could provide valuable insights and best practices.
She added that adapting these learnings to the Nigerian context would be critical to effectively address local challenges and opportunities.
Shadrack Guusu, Head of WASH Programmes at SHA, said there was need to strengthen local institutions and communities for effectively managing and sustaining WASH services.
He said the approach aimed to empower communities and enhance resilience, ensuring continuous access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
Guusu stressed SHA’s role in advocacy and policy influence, working closely with government and policymakers to prioritise WASH in development agendas and secure necessary resources for implementation.
He also emphasised the importance of exploring sustainable financing mechanisms, including public-private partnerships, to ensure long-term funding for WASH initiatives.
John Wali, WS4H Programme Manager SHA, emphasised the importance of government support, noting that Kano government had committed funding for WASH initiatives.
He expressed optimism that other states would follow suit, saying that the ultimate goal was to create an enabling environment for the successful implementation and scale-up of the programme.
“We are looking forward to continued government support to ensure the programme’s success.
“The collaboration with our in-country partners is crucial, and their expertise in market-based sanitation will be vital in achieving our sanitation goals,” he said.
Will Tillett, the Senior Global WASH Advisor with SelfHelp Africa, stressed the need to address WASH challenges, including open defecation, sustainability of rural water services, and inclusivity.
Tillett highlighted the importance of robust foundations to ensure the effectiveness of larger investments in the sector.
He said that through system strengthening and securing increased sector finance, the programme aimed to greatly benefit Nigerians by promoting long-term sustainability and inclusivity in WASH services.
In his goodwill message, Mr Suleiman Adamu, former Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, emphasised stakeholder collaborations and urged subnational ownership in WASH service delivery.
Adamu, who is the Chairman of SHA’s advisory board, also said that getting water and sanitation services right would solve all basic health problems in the country. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

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Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

June 27, 2024
FG, development partners chart climate-resilient path for Nigeria’s WASH sector
FG, development partners chart climate-resilient path for Nigeria’s WASH sector

WASH
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 26, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Government has announced partnership with development partners to chart a climate-resilient path for the country’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that experts at a three-day national workshop gathered to develop the Climate Risk Analysis and Action Plan for the sector on Wednesday in Abuja.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasised the sector’s role in promoting dignified lives and sustainable development amid climate change challenges.
Utsev, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Aliyu Shinkafi, said climate change presents a significant threat to humanity, impacting WASH services globally.
He noted that the hazards of climate change exacerbate vulnerabilities in WASH facilities, leading to social and economic risks.
He added that “in Nigeria, only 10 per cent of households have access to basic WASH services, while 23 per cent lack basic water supply, according to the 2021 WASHNORM report.
“These include increased household medical expenses, reduced agricultural productivity and higher incidences of civil unrest.”
These figures, he added, underscored the urgency to address climate-related risks in the sector.
He cited recent cholera outbreaks as a stark reminder of the critical need for robust WASH services in the country.
According to him, the Climate Risk Analysis and Action Plan aims to tackle the challenges head-on, providing comprehensive framework for assessing climate impacts across geopolitical zones.”
Utsev urged participants to prioritise behavioural change, capacity building, innovative technology and community engagement for climate-resilient WASH services.
“This plan is about long-term solutions to ensure climate resilience in WASH infrastructure and practices to benefit future generations.
“Education on climate-resilient practices is essential for both children and adults to foster sustainable habits,” he said.
While calling on stakeholders to play active roles in the initiative, the minister assured the ministry’s resolve to continue to allocate resources and create an enabling environment for climate-resilient WASH.
Earlier, Mr Mukaila Babarinde, the Director of Hydrology in the ministry, highlighted the critical impact of flooding in Nigeria, affecting 34 out of 36 states.
He explained that “as of November 2022, the situation had a devastating impact on 3.2 million people, resulting in 600 deaths and displacing 1.1 million individuals.
“Erratic rainfall patterns and rising sea levels are increasingly challenging the maintenance of Nigeria’s fragile WASH infrastructure, particularly during floods and droughts.
“Flooding causes severe damage to homes, farms and infrastructure, and it can also harm water and sanitation facilities.
“This pollution of water sources and damage to sanitation systems increase the risk of waterborne and vector-borne illnesses.
“Drought, on the other hand, reduces the availability of safe drinking water for households.
“This scarcity makes it difficult to maintain proper sanitation and hygiene practices during climate crises.”
Babarinde emphasised that the situation not only poses immediate health risks to families but has far-reaching impacts on education and the economy.
He noted that the Climate Risk Analysis and Action Plan assesses Nigeria’s current climate conditions across geopolitical zones and proposes innovative solutions to enhance WASH services.
On his part, UNICEF WASH Manager, Chiranjibi Tirawi, said climate change poses the most significant threat to humanity today, impacting every sector, including water services.
He explained that majority of hhouseholdsin the country already face challenges with limited access to quality water services, underscoring the timeliness of collaborative efforts to change the narrative.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of WaterAid, state water agencies and the Ministerial Advisory Council, urging collective action to protect those most affected, particularly at the grassroots. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu
June 26, 2024
Cholera: Group urges FG to reintroduce hand washing practices
Cholera: Group urges FG to reintroduce hand washing practices
Cholera
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 26, 2024 (NAN) The President of Safe Water Global Initiative, Mr Francis Uzoma, has called for the reintroduction of hand washing practices in public places to curtail the spread of cholera in Nigeria.
Uzoma made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
He emphasised on the need for the practice following the continued reports of widespread of cholera outbreaks in many parts of the country.
Uzoma advocated for a comprehensive multi-level government collaboration, policy implementation and behavioural change to tackle the issue.
“I think there is a need for hands-on collaboration between the federal, state, and local governments in handling this issue of cholera in our country.
“In most of our schools and public places, we need to engage in hand-washing campaigns because currently, few schools have hand-washing facilities.
“In spite of the media announcements about the outbreaks, it is unfortunate that Lagos State has lost so many precious lives.
“We are hopeful this will not happen again, and we expect various government agencies and responsible bodies to do more,” he said.
Uzoma highlighted the importance of scaling up investments in water infrastructure, and ensuring proper allocation of funds for mini-water schemes at the local government levels.
“When there is an outbreak, most people don’t have safe water they make do with what is available. Access to water is a right according to the UN Convention on Rights to Water.
“The government should be at the forefront to ensure that citizens have access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene,” Uzoma said.
He also highlighted the need to create a framework for better coordination among international NGOs, multilateral organisations, and government policies, as well as implementing digital tools to enhance water and sanitation projects.
Uzoma called for streamlining of procurement processes to expedite project implementation for the benefit of all Nigerians.
He cited the National Water Resources Policy 2016, which projects that national water demand would rise to 16.585 million cubic meters yearly by 2030.
According to him, this underscores the need for proactive measures to scale up access.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reports 1,598 suspected cholera cases across 107 Local Government Areas in 30 states, with Bayelsa accounting for 50 per cent of the cases.
Efforts to curb the spread of cholera include improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices, deploying rapid diagnostic tests, and enhancing surveillance.
However, challenges such as urban slums, lack of potable water, and limited healthcare infrastructure have continued to hinder various progress.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Nick Nicholas
June 26, 2024
FG reactivates water labs to curb cholera
Cholera
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 25, 2024 (NAN) Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, says the ministry has reactivated its laboratories across the six geopolitical zones to curtail further spread of cholera outbreak in Nigeria.
Utsev spoke on Tuesday at the ongoing 5th Lagos International Water Conference with the theme “Financing Water and Sanitation for a Greater Lagos.’’
He said the laboratory facilities would improve the detection and monitoring of cholera cases, aiding in quicker responses and more effective containment measures.
“This action reflects a proactive approach to public health management and underscores the importance of robust infrastructure in tackling infectious diseases.”
Utsev said that proactive measures were necessary for extensive public sensitisation on personal hygiene and ensuring the proper treatment or boiling of water and cooking of food and vegetables.
He emphasised the importance of increased investment in the water and sanitation sector, particularly urging state governors, development partners, and the private sector to prioritise such efforts.
He reassured that the Federal Government would continue to support states through various interventions to ensure access to clean and safe water and improved sanitation for all.
The minister stressed the necessity of public-private partnerships, saying such collaborations would attract private investment, enhance efficiency, and ensure sustainable service delivery.
He said that the government would leverage private sector expertise and capital to upgrade existing water infrastructure and expand coverage to underserved areas.
The minister also advocated for community-based organisations to mobilise resources and implement low-cost, decentralised solutions tailored to local needs, particularly in the areas of operation and maintenance.
He underscored the significance of international development assistance in financing water and sanitation projects in Nigeria, saying their contribution to providing grants, loans, and technical assistance was timely.
Utsev called on state governors and traditional and religious leaders to intensify campaigns against open defecation and to build more decent toilets to discourage the practice, aiming to achieve an open defecation-free status by next year.
On his part, Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reiterated his administration’s commitment over the past five years to addressing the water needs of Lagosians.
He, however, acknowledged the significant gap that still existed in achieving access to clean and safe water.
The governor called for more practical actions and support from the Federal Government, development partners, and other stakeholders in the water and sanitation sector.
The three-day International Conference featured presentations from notable figures, including Mrs Jette Bjerrum, the Consul General of Denmark in Lagos.
Other representatives from USAID and development partners also discussed the role of partnerships and collaboration to change poor water governance in the country.
(NAN) www.nannews.ng

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Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo
June 25, 2024
NGO hosts inter-school debate to inspire youth action on environment
NGO hosts inter-school debate to inspire youth on environment
Environment
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 21, 2024 (NAN) The C-Circle Research Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment, an NGO, has conducted an inter-school debate competition to promote environmental sustainability and awareness among young people.
The founder of the NGO, Dr Chimere Ohajinwa, stated that the event was part of activities commemorating the 2024 World Environment Day, themed “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.”
The event, which held in Abuja on Friday was in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Abuja Metro and other partners.
Ohajinwa said that 10 schools participated, engaging in discussions on climate change, environmental impacts, policy solutions, and sustainable practices.
According to her, the debate competition is a way to broaden children’s knowledge about the environment, climate change, and their impacts.
“The debate also aims to improve public speaking and critical thinking skills in the students.
“The competition is planned to be held three times a year, with other topics organised for debate.
“From the presentations, tree planting is used to control erosion, prevent deforestation, and mitigate other natural disasters.”
Ohajinwa explained that the second discussion concluded that both infrastructure and public awareness were important for effective waste management.
He further said that the event would educate participants, raise awareness, and inspire proactive measures among the younger generation.
On his part, Oritsejolomi Ayomike, the President of the Rotary Club of Abuja Metro, said Rotary is a humanitarian organisation that collaborates with the government and educational institutions.
According to him, the club works to create public awareness about harmful environmental practices and their health implications, such as open defecation and deforestation.
Ayomike emphasised that the goal was not to determine the best school but to raise awareness and educate students about environmental maintenance and its health implications.
“Our focus areas are the environment and basic education, which led to bringing students from different schools to debate environmental issues,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 10 schools were invited, but nine participated in the competition.
The debate topics were “Tree Planting Improves Restoration and Reduces Desertification” and “Is the biggest challenge to effective waste management in Nigeria as a result of lack of infrastructure or lack of Public Awareness”.
Regina Pacis College Garki, Abuja won first place, followed by Government Secondary School, Gwagwa, in second place.
Bristol Academy, Karu, took third place, and Government Secondary School, Life-Camp, secured fourth place.
The schools received drought-resistance trees donated by Ecosmart Climate Action Initiatives.
The trees would be planted in the schools to commemorate World Environment Day 2024.
It would be monitored by C-Circle Research, a sister organisation to C-Circle Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment.
NAN also reports that World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, encourages awareness and action for environmental protection.
It is supported by numerous non-governmental organisations, businesses, and government entities and represents the primary United Nations outreach day for the environment. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

June 21, 2024
NIPR inducts 605 new members, seeks end to quackery
NIPR inducts 605 new members, seeks end to quackery
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has formally inducted 605 new members into the profession, emphasising the importance of professionalism and an end to quackery.
This was the thrust at the Diamond Anniversary Special Induction of the institute in Abuja on Thursday.
The President of the NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku, stated that the initiative was part of efforts to ensure that only qualified and properly trained individuals represented the public relations profession.
This, he said would enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the practice.
Neliaku noted that relationship was the hallmark of public relations, hence the need for new inductees to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity.
He emphasised that members should avoid practices or behaviors that could harm the reputation of the Institute or the public relations profession.
Neliaku stressed the importance of adhering to the highest standards of accuracy and truth in all professional activities.
He urged members to respect core values and uphold the ethical principles that underpin the public relations field.
He highlighted the critical role of maintaining public trust and credibility, reminding members that their actions reflected not only on themselves but also on the entire profession.
Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, Vice-Chairman of the NIPR Governing Board, underscored the event’s importance, noting its adaptation to contemporary needs and its alignment with the institute’s diamond anniversary celebrations.
Dandaura highlighted several key aspects of 2024 Hybrid Induction Format which for the first time, incorporated and allowed greater participation and reflected modern event-hosting practices.
According to him, the Diamond Anniversary of NIPR held special significance as it coincided with the 60th anniversary of the NIPR, adding historical weight to the proceedings.
“A total of 605 new members were inducted, with 353 joining online and 198 attending in person. This reflects the institute’s significant growth and expanded reach.
“Highlights of our anniversary celebration is a seminar on Public Relations, Value Orientation, and Economic Transformation, aimed at professional development.
“We will also be hosting a Dinner and Recognition- An evening event chaired by General Yakubu Gowon, honoring distinguished icons in the field”.
The vice chairman said these activities were designed to celebrate the NIPR’s contributions to national development over the past 60 years, while also fostering professional growth and public engagement in the field of public relations.
Mr Ali Muhammad Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, expressed his delight at participating in a significant event celebrating the 60th anniversary of the institute.
He described the occasion as a milestone and emphasised the importance of celebrating 60 years of the institution’s impactful existence.
He commended the institute for its growth and influence over the past six decades, noting its substantial contributions to shaping public communication narratives.
Ali commended everyone involved in making the celebration a success, emphasising the News Agency of Nigeria’s alignment with the NIPR in upholding factual reporting as a cornerstone of their mission.
Ali underscored the agency’s commitment to maintaining credibility and authenticity in its reporting, amidst the prevalence of fake news in today’s digital age.
Mr Baba Ndace, the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), representing the Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Malagi, noted the dual responsibility of the newly inducted members of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
Ndace stressed the importance of speaking positively and forcefully about the country.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigeria, as recognised by the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Tinubu but highlighted ongoing efforts to address these issues.
He urged the inductees not to contribute to negative narratives about the nation, asserting that while no country was perfect, Nigeria’s beauty and potential should be the focal points.
He underscored the critical role of the new NIPR members in collaborating with the Ministry of Information to restore trust in public discourse.
He mentioned that one of the ministry’s primary goals has been to rebuild public confidence in communication, fostering trust in institutions and media outlets.
Ndace called on the inductees to take pride in their nation and contribute to its positive image, noting the NIPR as a platform for mentorship and professional growth.
Goodwill messages were given by representatives of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, President, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Mr Chris Isiguzo, Chairman, House Committee on Public Affairs, Rep. Rotimi Akintunde.
Others are the Nigerian Television Authority, Africa Independent Television among others. (NAN)
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Edited by Gabriel Yough
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June 20, 2024
FG begins water quality analysis to curtail cholera outbreak
FG begins water quality analysis to curtail cholera outbreak
Cholera
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has initiated a water quality analysis following a cholera outbreak that has resulted in the deaths of 30 people across several states.
Alhaji Aliyu Shinkafi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday said this was necessary following continued reports of outbreak in many parts of the country.
According to him, the ministry’s concern highlights the severity of this waterborne disease, which is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and spreads rapidly through contaminated water or food.
He said the symptoms of cholera include vomiting, severe dehydration, and diarrhea, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
“In response to the outbreak, teams from the National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Lagos, Enugu, and Sokoto have been dispatched to collect water samples and investigate the presence of Vibrio cholerae in the affected areas.
“Additionally, the ministry is coordinating with State Technical Working Groups and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agencies (RUWASSAs) through the WASH in Emergency Technical Working Group (WiETWG) to address the outbreak comprehensively”.
Shinkafi said that before the outbreak, the National WASH in Emergency Technical Working Group had already trained state working groups on preparedness, prevention, and response strategies, as well as hygiene promotion and water safety planning.
These states, he said have now intensified their community sensitisation efforts to reduce cholera cases and are promoting campaigns against open defecation, a known transmission route for the disease.
He however urged Nigerians to take precautions to protect themselves and their families by boiling or treating drinking water before consumption.
The permanent secretary called on all Nigerians to take wash hands with soap under clean, running water regularly, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
He said the ministry will continue to provide updates in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) as the situation evolves.
“Let’s wash fruits and vegetables with safe water and salt before eating.
“Let’s also seek medical attention immediately if experiencing symptoms of cholera, such as vomiting, severe dehydration, and diarrhea.
“Together, we can overcome this challenge and prevent further loss of lives”.
NAN quotes the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention as saying “as of 11 June 2024, 1,141 suspected cholera cases had been recorded across 30 states in Nigeria since January 2024.’’
The 10 states that recorded 90 per cent of the cases are mostly located in the South (Bayelsa—over 400 cases, Lagos, Abia, Cross River, Delta, Imo States), with some situated further north (Katsina, Nasarawa, Zamfara.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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edited by Sadiya Hamza
June 20, 2024
Cholera: Expert recommends intensified hygiene practices for schools
Cholera
By Tosin Kolade
Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN) In response to suspected and confirmed reports of cholera outbreaks in some parts of Nigeria, a sanitation expert has called for improved hygiene practices in schools.
Mr Benson Attah, the National Coordinator, Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN), made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday.
He said that school management authourities need to immediately increase their level of alertness and intensify cholera awareness.
He urged local government councils with reported outbreaks to disseminate hygiene messages to pupils and students in affected areas.
Attah advised students to share the messages with their families, neighbours, and communities to ensure widespread awareness and preventive action.
“This outbreak should serve as an early warning to the councils and states yet unaffected,” Attah said.
He underscored the necessity for proactive measures even in regions not currently experiencing outbreaks.
“The recommended hygiene practices include; regular hand washing with safe, clean water and soap, especially before eating.
“We must all practice food safety by washing fruits and vegetables with salt and water, followed by thorough rinsing and ensuring that all cooking and eating utensils are cleaned with soap and water.
“Another issue is insect and rodent prevention through preventing flies and other insects from contacting food and keeping rodents out of homes, particularly kitchens and food storage areas”.
The national coordinator noted the importance of water safety, saying drinking only potable or boiled water should be encouraged at all times.
Attah said that school management authorities must immediately increase their alertness and cholera awareness efforts to mitigate the spread of the disease.
He urged everyone to maintain a high level of hygiene at home, in schools, on buses, and in other public places to prevent further outbreaks.
“The level of seriousness and commitment to hygiene practices must be heightened across all affected and unaffected areas, collective responsibility is essential in combating the cholera outbreak.
Attah also advised everyone to avoid buying and eating street food in areas with reported cholera cases, saying clothes and bedding should be soaked in soap, boiled water, and disinfectants, or bleach.
He said floors, walls, toilets, and bathrooms should be washed with disinfectants or bleach where cholera patients stayed or were treated.
“Everyone should drink boiled or potable water, additionally, people should adopt regular hand washing with safe water and soap or use hand sanitizer.”
NAN quotes the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention as saying ` as of 11 June 2024, 1,141 suspected cholera cases had been recorded across 30 states in Nigeria since January 2024.’’
The 10 states that recorded 90 per cent of the cases are mostly located in the South (Bayelsa—over 400 cases, Lagos, Abia, Cross River, Delta, Imo States), with some situated further north (Katsina, Nasarawa, Zamfara States). (NAN)
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Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

June 19, 2024