By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The IbomWASH+ cluster has urged Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Umo Eno, and the state executive council to urgently approve the WASH and Open Defecation Free (ODF) policy framework. This move is seen as crucial for safeguarding public health and advancing sanitation in the state.
In a statement issued yesterday in Uyo, the cluster—comprising the African Human Development Center, Better Future Initiative, AkwaMfon Sustainable Development Community Association, Garden Initiative, and NEWSAN—highlighted the importance of these policies. The initiative is supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the SCALE (Strengthening Advocacy at Local Level) Project. The statement was endorsed by Project Director Prof. Gabriel Umoh.
The coalition emphasized that open defecation and inadequate sanitation are major contributors to waterborne diseases, significantly impacting vulnerable populations, especially children. They argue that adopting the policies, including domesticating Executive Order 009, would position Akwa Ibom State as a leader in combating open defecation and ensuring access to clean and safe sanitation facilities.
The policies, which have been pending since the previous administration, are now due for approval. The coalition urged the state executive council to act promptly, stating that the approval is vital for protecting public health and enhancing sanitation standards across the state.
