Governor Malam Umar Namadi has reiterated his administration’s strong resolve to maintain Jigawa State’s recently attained Open Defecation-Free (ODF) status.
He made this known during a courtesy visit by the National Task Group on Sanitation (NTGS) monitoring team at the Government House, Dutse.
Describing the ODF achievement as a significant milestone, Governor Namadi emphasized that sustaining it demands greater dedication, innovation, and resources.
He assured the team that the state has developed a robust plan, including the formation of a high-level Steering Committee and Technical Committee to oversee hygiene and sanitation efforts.
The governor highlighted key interventions, including the construction of toilets in public schools and markets across the state.
“A public-private partnership model is also being adopted for market toilet maintenance, where private operators receive subsidies in return for ensuring cleanliness and functionality.
“This approach creates a sense of ownership,” Namadi noted. “Private managers see it as a livelihood, so they are more invested in keeping the facilities clean than if government alone ran them.”
Governor Namadi also spoke on broader environmental initiatives, stating that over five million trees were planted last year, with a similar target set for the current year.
He added that every public event by the governor now includes an environmental protection component.
On flood control, the governor outlined proactive measures in place, including the establishment of dedicated task forces at both state and local levels.
These teams, with support from water management experts, have been implementing physical interventions to redirect floodwaters and protect communities.
The NTGS Team Leader, Mr. Benson Attah, commended Jigawa for its ODF achievement and praised the administration’s political will.
He urged the state to continue its momentum through inclusive policies and infrastructure development, pledging ongoing technical support from partners.
Governor Namadi, in turn, thanked the NTGS team for their efforts and engagement with local communities, emphasizing that Jigawa remains committed to leading in sanitation, public health, and environmental resilience.
Usman MZ
