Fighting Open Defecation A National Concern
As someone who recently relocated to the FCT, I was shocked when I passed by a community in the heart of the city practicing open defecation. My experience proves that, from rural communities to our city centers, the issue of open defecation is still an eyesore and a menace to both human and animal health. This practice is not only primitive but also raises serious health and psychological concerns for those involved and their communities. Sadly, it is driven by a combination of poor human capital development and worsening poverty, where many cannot afford accommodation with proper sanitary facilities, forcing them into this dehumanizing habit. The cost of accommodation is increasing at a phenomenal rate due to the current inflationary circumstances.
In October 2019, Nigeria overtook India as the country with the highest number of people practicing open defecation. It is estimated that around 50 million Nigerians, or 10 million households, still engage in this practice. This is alarming, especially when we consider that India, with a much larger population of over 1.3 billion, was able to address the problem through determined efforts. Now that Nigeria faces the same challenge, it must take even more decisive action to reverse the trend.
Open defecation, simply put, involves passing waste in open spaces instead of using proper toilets. It is not confined to rural areas; even in cities, educational institutions, and residential areas, the practice continues. Despite efforts over the years, only 14 of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas are free from open defecation, highlighting the enormity of the challenge.
Recent reports from the 2021 Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene National Outcome Routine Mapping (WASHNORM III) indicate that the number of Nigerians practicing open defecation has increased from 46 million in 2019 to 48 million in 2021. I believe the statistics will be even higher today. The report further reveals that 83% of households in the country lack access to basic hygiene services. These figures underscore the urgent need for a renewed commitment to addressing this national crisis.
Additionally, Nigeria’s worsening economic situation further complicates the fight against open defecation. The shrinking middle class, many of whom can no longer afford basic sanitation provisions, face an uphill battle in a country where citizens are left to provide essential services for themselves, from water to sanitation equipment. With incomes dwindling and purchasing power diminishing, tackling open defecation becomes an even more complex challenge.
What Can Be Done?
To effectively combat open defecation, a multi-stakeholder approach is required. The government, individuals, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) all have crucial roles to play in eradicating this practice.
Government should prioritize the building of quality infrastructure, including public toilets. This will create employment and a source of revenue, as residents and travelers alike can use these facilities.
Infrastructure that supports water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) must be developed across both urban and rural areas. Every community should have functioning water and toilet facilities for public use.
People who engage in open defecation should be arrested and fined, sending a message that the government is serious. Local government authorities must ensure that no building is approved without a plan for sanitation facilities. It is sad that many buildings get approved and are built without adequate sanitation provisions.
The National Orientation Agency and other information dissemination organs of the government should lead nationwide campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of open defecation, educating people on the importance of proper hygiene and the health risks associated with the practice.
Open defecation destroys our dignity; it lowers our essence. It is against human dignity and public safety. Nigeria cannot lead from the back; it is a member of the international community and must behave in a way that shows decency. With the right political will, we can end open defecation.
By Ubong Usoro
