News Agency of Nigeria
Health insurance: FCTA to sanction erring HMOs 
Health

Health insurance: FCTA to sanction erring HMOs 

 

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) says it will sanction any Health Maintenance Organisations under the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS), who failed to remit payments to healthcare providers promptly.

Mr Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media gave the warning in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday.

Olayinka explained that the FHIS was a social health
Insurance programme, offering financial protection through access to quality, affordable and equitable healthcare services by all FCT residents.

He added that staff of the FCTA and Area Councils, including vulnerable persons and pregnant women were being enrolled for free, while other members of the public could enroll upon payment of N22,500 as premium per annum.

He added that about N4 billion, outstanding payments for capitation and fee for service from 2022 to 2024 was approved by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and paid between 2024 and 2025.

This, according to him, is to improve the quality of healthcare services provided to the FHIS enrollees.

He said that one of the benefit packages of the FHIS was the Basic Minimum Package of Health Care services (BMPHS), ranging from promotive, preventive, curative and some rehabilitative care services.

Other services, he said, included  primary preventive care, screening, primary emergency services, and secondary level care such as dental, mental, eye, ear, nose and throat care, physiotherapy, surgeries, laboratory investigations, and radiological investigations such as ultrasound scan, and x-rays.

The spokesman, however, said that complaints have been received from some healthcare providers concerning non-remittance of their payments by some of the HMOs.

According to him, the HMOs blamed the non-payment on nonavailability of bank details of the affected hospitals.

“This excuse is not acceptable to the FCT Administration government.”

He said that henceforth, compliance of the HMOs to the prompt remittance of payments to healthcare providers and the commitment of the healthcare providers to the FHIS enrollees would be closely monitored.

He stressed that all defaulters
would be sanctioned accordingly.

On implementation of the FHIS in the last one year, Olayinka said that outstanding payment for capitations and fee for service from 2022 to the end of 2024 had been paid.

He identified other successes as improved timeliness in the payment of capitation to HMOs, upward review of capitation to healthcare providers, free enrolment of vulnerable persons, especially pregnant women, children under-five years and indigent residents.

“Others include accreditation visits to 100 Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities to expand the number of PHC providing FHIS services and in the long run, improve access to healthcare services in communities.

“Also, all pregnant women who enrolled through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) PHCs across the six area councils in the FCT will continue to enjoy free health education, medical consultation and treatment.

“Other services include routine antenatal drugs, laboratory investigations and delivery.

“Referral for secondary care, including caesarean section, blood transfusion and treatment of other obstetric complications such as eclampsia in all the 14 General Hospitals in the FCT is also provided at no cost to the patient through the BHCPF,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Nigeria pledges to deepen trade ties with Thailand
Foreign

Nigeria pledges to deepen trade ties with Thailand

 

By Maureen Okon

Dr Yusuf Yakub, Director-General, Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), says Nigeria is committed to collaborating with Thailand to strengthen technical development, trade, and people-to-people bilateral ties between the two countries.

Yakub made this known when a seven-man delegation from the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja on Wednesday.

According to him, as Africa’s largest economy and the world’s largest Black nation, Nigeria is open to global partnerships that will bolster its economic growth and those of its friends globally.

While underscoring the historical ties between the two nations, he described TICA as a “sister agency” to NTAC, and lauded TICA for the impact of its initiatives.

Yakub noted that both NTAC and TICA were instrumental to promoting soft power diplomacy and South-South cooperation.

He also reaffirmed NTAC’s willingness to engage in joint volunteer programmes with Thailand, adding that the country had made an impressive impact in the production of rice globally.

The DG expressed admiration for Thailand’s innovative agricultural machinery, such as the “Flying Star” multi-functional machine, and welcomed the opportunity to initiate similar technological exchanges.

The former lawmaker said he was considering reviving a trade fair model  between Nigerian and Thai stakeholders, which he earlier initiated as the Chairman, House Committee on Nigerian/China Relations.

He disclosed that NTAC was also undergoing legislative reforms to extend its technical assistance beyond Africa, Caribbean and the Pacific (ACP) countries.

Yakub said Nigeria’s recent deployment of volunteers to Grenada was an example of its desire to expand diplomatic cooperation as directed by President Bola Tinubu in line with his 4D Foreign Policy.

Speaking earlier, Ms. Sasirit Tangulra, the leader of the delegation and Director-General, Department of South Asian, Middle-East and African Affairs, said the Thai government was committed to strengthening cooperation with Nigeria.

According to her, Nigeria is Thailand’s second-largest trading partner in Africa.

She highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Thailand since 1962, adding that Thailand was committed to deepening cooperation through trade, investment, and development partnerships.

Lt. Sorrawud Preededilok, a member of the delegation, explained that the agency was the country’s focal point for international development cooperation operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He also said the agency was also committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and behind the success of two Nigerian officials who recently completed TICA-sponsored management degree programmes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that both sides explored opportunities for cooperation, including joint volunteer programmes, technology exchanges, and trade fairs, and concluded with the exchange of gifts.

The Thai government delegation included: Mr. Thirapath Mongkolnavin, Ambassador of Thailand to Nigeria; Mr. Kittipet Hongsombud, Director, Africa Division; Mr. Natthawat Malisuwan, Counsellor and Deputy.

Others are Mr. Kittidech Wongnokraset, Counsellor for TICA; Mr. Natjanon Limboonruksa; Development Cooperation Officer, TICA; and Ms. Thananya Panyasin, Third Secretary, Department of South Asian, Middle East, and African Affairs.

NTAC was represented by the Director of Programme, Amb. Zakari Usman and other senior officers. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

First Lady’s home garden project a huge success in FCT – Coordinator 
Agriculture

First Lady’s home garden project a huge success in FCT – Coordinator 

By Philip Yatai

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s “Every Home a Garden” project is recording a huge success in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), says the FCT Coordinator, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi.

Benjamins-Laniyi, who is also the Mandate Secretary, FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, stated this at the close-out of the 2024 cohort of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Every Home a Garden competition, in Abuja.

She said that the event was also organised to celebrate FCT women for queuing into the competition, initiated by the First Lady, which she described as a “huge success.”

She said that the project, under the RHI Agricultural Support Programme has continued to impact the lives of rural women across the FCT.

According to her, the project is not only promoting self-reliance but improving nutrition and economic empowerment through backyard gardens.

She explained that the competition began in July 2023 to encourage women in the 36 states of the federation and the FCT to practice home gardening.

She said that the women were encouraged to use traditional and modern gardening methods to create gardens at home.

“This lofty initiative was conceived to enhance immediate and sustainable food supply in the home and the country at large.

“The home garden idea is further aimed at promoting self-sufficiency, improving well-being, ensuring food security, reducing high cost of living and encouraging culture of sharing and communal living.

“On a broader scale, the initiative is targeting at redirecting the consciousness of Nigerians towards developing interest in farming, using any available space within the premises of every home.

“It is a bold attempt to reset Nigeria on the path to revitalising her vast agricultural endowments across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT, with women leading the way,” she said.

Benjamins-Laniyi added that to participate in the competition, the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat inaugurated a committee, who reached out to women in the territory and guided them through the processes.

She said a total of 416 video entries were received and their gardens were also physically inspected by the committee and members of the panel of jurists.

She said that the panel assessed all the entries based on location of garden, variety of vegetables, use of available space, and alternative gardening methods.

Other criteria, she said, included the garden capacity to add value to domestic needs of the family and decency in the garden among others.

The coordinator said that at the end of assessment, Hajiya Hauwa Aminu emerged the winner in FCT, and also emerged among the top three at the national level.

She also said that Mrs Victoria Obiolor and Mrs Pamela Ashiedu came second and third place respectively.

“Today, we are gathered to commend the efforts of these women for participating in the competition. You all gave your best.

“You now belong to the women agro network in FCT, which shall stand as reference for further actions in terms of empowerment and capacity building in farming.

“You would not be abandoned,” she assured the women.

For continuity, the coordinator said that the close of the 2024 competition equally marks the commencement of the 2025 edition of the competition.

“I strongly believe that our gathering here today is a pathway for a better tomorrow for these women seated before us.

“You should, therefore, be ready for further engagements that would put smiles on your faces,” she said.

Also speaking, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Abdullahi reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to grassroots agricultural empowerment.

Abdullahi commended the first lady for the initiative saying, “it is completing the efforts of President Bola Tinubu in repositioning the agricultural sector”. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

North Central group applauds Yilwatda’s appointment as APC national chairman
Politics

North Central group applauds Yilwatda’s appointment as APC national chairman

By Emmanuel Yashim

The North Central Development Initiative (NCDI), a CSO, has applauded Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda on his emergence as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The group congratulated Yilwatda in a letter jointly signed by Comrade Musa Ali Otigba and Alhaji Muhammad Mubarak Alabi, the Director General/National Coordinator and National Secretary of the group, respectively.

The group also thanked President Bola Tinubu for listening to the people of the North Central Zone of the country by returning the position of national chairman of the party to its original base – North Central Zone.

While pledging support for the new chairman for the success of the party, the group said Yilwatda’s emergence as national chairman of the party “at this critical moment testified to his proven track record of capacity, dedication, and commitment to the ideals of democracy, unity, and national development.

“It is indeed a well-deserved recognition of your longstanding service and unwavering contributions to the progress of the APC and the nation at large.

“As you assume this important office, we are confident that your tenure will be remarkable and marked by purposeful leadership, strategic reforms, and a strengthened internal democracy that will further reposition the party for future successes,” the group said.

“It might interest you to know that NCDI had been at the forefront of the agitation for the return of the national chairmanship position of the party to its original base – the North Central zone.

“Now that it has been achieved, we hereby pledge our loyalty and unwavering support to you, our brother, in particular, the APC as a party, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his efforts to transform Nigeria.

“Please accept our best wishes for a successful tenure, while praying for God’s wisdom to lead the party with integrity and impactful achievements,” the group said. (NAN)

Edited by Philip Yatai

SON intensifies effort towards eradicating substandard electrical product in Nigeria
Economy/Business

SON intensifies effort towards eradicating substandard electrical product in Nigeria

By Lucy Ogalue

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is intensifying efforts towards eliminating the circulation of substandard electrical products in the country.

The Director- General of SON, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, said this at a Stakeholders Sensitisation Forum for manufacturers, importers and vendors at the Zuba Electrical and Electronics Market on Monday in Abuja.

The theme of the event was “Driving Economic Growth in the Electrical/Electronics Sector through Standards and Quality Assurance.

Okeke was represented by Dr Marline Waziri, North Central Coordinator for SON.

He commended members of the Abuja Electrical Materials Dealers’ Welfare Association for their efforts towards ensuring standards in the subsector.

He applauded the association’s recent decision to prohibit the sale of fake and substandard electrical items among its members.

The director-general described the decision as a bold and patriotic move that aligned with SON’s mandate on standardisation and consumer protection.

“This engagement is particularly significant as it reflects our collective responsibility to ensure that only safe, quality and standard electrical materials are distributed and sold across Nigerian markets,” Okeke said.

He said that the workshop was designed to enlighten stakeholders on SON’s regulatory tools, including product registration, authentication and market surveillance strategies.

“These mechanisms help genuine businesses thrive, protect consumers and promote confidence in Nigeria’s manufacturing ecosystem,” he said.

The SON boss also reiterated the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First Policy,” which he said promotes the patronage of locally made and approved products that meet quality benchmarks.

“By choosing standard electrical products, you are not only protecting lives and property but also strengthening local industries and boosting job creation,” he said.

The SON boss also reiterated the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First Policy,” which he said promotes the patronage of locally made and approved products that meet quality benchmarks.

“By choosing standard electrical products, you are not only protecting lives and property but also strengthening local industries and boosting job creation,” he said.

According to him, the collaborative initiative is expected to significantly reduce the circulation of substandard electrical and electronic products in Abuja and environs, while also improving compliance and revenue generation.

Okeke, however, said that the fight against fake products could not be shouldered by SON alone, calling on market leaders, distributors and consumers to join hands in upholding the values of quality and safety.

“The eradication of substandard products is not a task for SON alone. It requires the active partnership of stakeholders like you, dealers, distributors, consumers and the general public.

“Your understanding, cooperation and commitment are essential to safeguarding lives and property, boosting investor confidence, and enhancing the reputation of your businesses,” he said.

He urged participants to take full advantage of the workshop and remain committed to the ongoing national campaign against substandard goods.

Mr Chike Nwasa, Vice President, Zuba International Electronic Market, urged the Federal Government to provide the dealers with guidelines on how to go about their business and ensure standardisation of products.

Nwasa also called for government intervention in the area of infrastructure, especially the access road to the market.

Mr Godwin Hassan, Secretary of the Association, expressed excitement over the sensitisation exercise, describing it as timely and enlightening for market stakeholders.

Hassan commended SON for engaging directly with traders to explain the difference between standard and substandard electrical products, which he said would help dealers make better-informed purchasing decisions.

The secretary called for sustained collaboration between SON and the association to curb the incidents of fire outbreaks and death in the country.

He urged the government and the media to intensify public awareness on the dangers of substandard products.

He reaffirmed the market’s commitment to supporting the fight against fake electrical goods and promoting quality standards across the country.
(NAN)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Troops nab  suspected Nigerien terrorist in Yobe, kill scores 
Defence/Security

Troops nab  suspected Nigerien terrorist in Yobe, kill scores 

 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation Hadin Kai, on Monday, apprehended a suspected Nigerien terrorist while attempting to infiltrate a security perimeter in Yobe.

The troops also neutralised scores of terrorists, apprehended several others and rescued victims in various operations across theatres of operation.

A credible source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the inability of the suspect to speak any Nigerian language had prompted further investigations into possible transnational ties.

He said the operation was conducted by troops of 120 Task Force Battalion in Katarko, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe.

In Borno, he revealed that two relatives of terrorists, an adult female and a child, voluntarily surrendered to troops of 202 Battalion in Bama, after escaping from the Churchur axis.

The military source described the development as a sign of sustained pressure on insurgent enclaves.

In Sokoto State, the source revealed that troops of 8 Division Garrison killed two armed elements in a fierce gun battle in Tsamaye and Mai Lalle, Sabon Birni Local Government Area.

He said that three AK-47 rifles and a motorcycle were recovered at the scene.

In Kebbi State, he said the troops of 1 Battalion Rear intercepted a cattle rustling attempt in Sauna Village, Argungu Local Government Area.

According to him, The rustlers abandoned 251 cows and fled, adding that the animals were recovered and returned to their owners.

In Ondo State, the source said that troops of 323 Artillery Regiment operating in Igbara-Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area, intercepted two suspected gunrunners attempting to purchase weapons.

According to him, the suspects were working under the instruction of an inmate at Kirikiri Correctional Facility in Lagos, who allegedly coordinated the illicit transaction to fuel criminal activities in Zamfara.

“In a related operation in Delta, troops discovered a tricycle loaded with about 200 litres of suspected illegally refined diesel along the Jeddo–Omadino axis in Warri South Local Government Area.

“In a separate clearance mission, seven suspects were arrested from a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area.

“Recovered items included a motorcycle, four mobile phones and other logistics materials,” he said.

The source reaffirmed the army’s commitment to maintaining internal security and public order, assuring that the tempo of operations would remain high. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

U.S. providing African-led solutions to African conflicts — Envoy
Foreign

U.S. providing African-led solutions to African conflicts — Envoy

 

By Mark Longyen

Lt.-Gen. John Brennan, Deputy Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), says U.S. operations in Africa are Africa-led, promoting African solutions to African conflicts.

Brennan was joined by Amb. Robert Scott, Deputy Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, at a digital news conference during their visit to the continent on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference highlighted AFRICOM’s efforts to strengthen partnerships, promote stability, and enhance collective defence across the African region.

Brennan explained that AFRICOM’s engagements emphasise cost-effective, African-led solutions that reduce direct U.S. military involvement through Joint Combined Exercise Training programmes.

“In the security sector, we assess our partners’ needs. We’ve done that in both Namibia and Angola,” he said during the briefing.

“Based on assessments, we offer options for purchasing equipment, receiving training, and other support tailored to those countries’ requirements,” he added.

He emphasised that all training and exercises are African-led, partner-led, and supported by allies to maintain regional autonomy and effectiveness.

Brennan also said AFRICOM partners with African nations to secure investments, contributing to a broader ecosystem of development and economic cooperation.

He announced Angola’s approval for the U.S. State Partnership Programme, noting that investment thrives where there is a strong sense of security.

Security, he said, encourages investment, helps countries present themselves as safe partners, and lowers risk for American business interests in Africa.

“We’re happy Angola is joining the State Partnership Programme — an incredibly valuable initiative for African nations,” Brennan stated.

He noted it strengthens ties beyond military cooperation, involving U.S. Air and Army National Guard units in strategic relationships with African counterparts.

“The Lobito Corridor in Angola shows how security can support infrastructure and development,” he said, linking defence to regional growth.

He reiterated that the U.S. prioritises lasting solutions to African conflicts, deliberately avoiding direct intervention due to the complexity of counterterrorism without a ground presence.

Brennan said AFRICOM helps build African partners’ capabilities, enabling them to counter terrorism and conduct multilateral operations with U.S. support where necessary.

“Jihadist groups operate around Angola and Namibia. ISIS has a presence in Mozambique and South Africa,” he warned.

He also noted an emerging threat from Mexican drug cartels operating from South Africa and coastal West Africa.

“Our goal is to shield Namibia and Angola from these threats and help prepare them for any future challenges,” he said.

AFRICOM, Brennan said, remains active in East Africa, particularly Somalia, targeting groups such as ISIS, al-Shabaab, and al-Qaida affiliates. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Kebbi Govt. earmarks N6.5bn for schools’ renovation, supply of furniture
Education

Kebbi Govt. earmarks N6.5bn for schools’ renovation, supply of furniture

 

By Muhammad Lawal

Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi, says the State Government has earmarked N6.5 billion for renovation of primary and secondary schools and supply of furniture in its 2025 budget.

Idris disclosed this at the opening of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), in Birnin Kebbi on Monday.

He added that the present administration had also purchased books worth N2.7 billion to be distributed to students free.

“I am the happiest person today, I have cause to thank God because people who understand the importance of education are here in Kebbi.

“I am happy to inform you that Kebbi is operating a free education system to ensure access to formal education by all in the state.

“We have also improved the boarding school feeding to enable our students to stay in their respective schools,” he said.

The governor added that his administration had reviewed medical doctors remunerations to be at par with what the federal government was paying to doctors.

This, according to him, is part of efforts to curb the menace of brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector.

In agriculture, Idris disclosed that his administration had procured 520 trucks of fertilisers and distributed them to farmers for free.

He added that 10,000 tillers solar powered pumping machines were also procured and distributed to farmers to boost dry season framing.

In his remarks, the NUT President, Mr Audu Titus-Amba, commended the governor for the legacies he left behind in the NUT.

Titus-Amba identified one of the legacies as the extension of the years of service for teachers from 60 to 65 years.

“If not for the extension of the years of service for teachers, I wouldn’t have been here today; I would have long retired,” he said.

He described the emergence of Idris as governor of Kebbi as divine and a blessing to the state.

While thanking Idris for elevating six teachers to the rank of Permanent Secretaries, the NUT president argued that the people of Kebbi did not make a mistake of electing a teacher to be their leader.

He described Kebbi as a “second home” for teachers, adding that members of the union would continue to pray and support the governor to succeed.

Also, Dr Halima Bande, Commissioner, Ministry for Basic and Secondary Education, commended the governor for the huge investment in the education sector.

Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Magaji-Na-Yelwa, the commissioner urged Idris to sustain the investment to ensure a better future for all children in the state.

Earlier, the acting Chairman of NUT in the state, Alhaji Usman Koko, also commended the governor for being an education and teacher-friendly governor.

According to him, Idris has recorded significant achievements in the last two years in office.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NEC meeting was held in Kebbi in honour of the governor, who was the immediate past president of the union.

While in NUT, Idris served as  the NUT State Chairman in Kebbi and later elected the National Treasurer of the union.

He later became the National President of NUT while serving at the same time as the Deputy President, Nigeria Labour Congress, before he was elected the governor of Kebbi. (NAN)

Edited by Philip Yatai

Anglican Primate suggests way to advance education
Education

Anglican Primate suggests way to advance education

By Angela Atabo

Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) says collaboration among government, private and religious sectors is key to educational advancement.

Ndukuba stated this at the Diocese of Abuja, Anglican International Academy (AIA), Zhidu, Abuja’ maiden graduation ceremony on Sunday.

The clergy emphasised the need for the government to collaborate with private and religious institutions to move education forward in the country.

He said the collaboration would lead to a more holistic and accessible education system and address both academic and moral development needs.

Represented by Venerable Ernest Onuoha,the Supervising Priest and the Vicar of All Saints Church, Wuse, Ndukuba said the collaboration would be a game changer in the education sector.

According to him, the Church has historical involvement in education and its existing infrastructure, potential would promote values-based learning.

“In the national policy of education 2004, it was stated that no nation can rise above the level of education it has.

“The AIA is the contribution from the church to that policy by providing a type of education with morals that will enable the students to fit adequately into the wider society,” he said.

The clergy called upon the newly graduated students to become “beacons of hope” and serve Nigeria.

“They are going into the world to serve and become beacons of hope and light.

“They will also be the epistles of the Church written in the hearts of men and to be learned by all.”

Ndukuba urged the students to always identify with their alma mater and then come and make their own contributions in the future.

He called on the government to help in fixing the road from Idu to Zhidu where the school is situated.

Also speaking, the Principal of the School,Venerable Nelson Akinwande, said AIA has nurtured the students in character, in learning, in faith and with quality hands.

Akinwande said that the school created platforms where it was able to curb issues of immorality among students.

“Integrity and character has been the bedrock of what AIA is known for and we thank God for that.

“Upbringing of children is very important because the children of today are the leaders of tomorrow.

“They are those that will become presidents, governors, senators and those that will lead a different sphere of the society.

“So it is important to give quality education to our children so that tomorrow we will be proud to have good leaders in the society,” he said.

Akinwande advised the students to always remember the values that have been deposited in them.

The graduating Head girl of the school, Denileah Den-Walter, commended the school and the teachers for impacting knowledge and grooming them for the next level. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

RUWASSA, Wastebox campaign against open defecation hits Abuja streets, motorparks
Environment

RUWASSA, Wastebox campaign against open defecation hits Abuja streets, motorparks

 

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Directorate (RUWASSA), in collaboration with Wastebox ltd, a waste management company, on Monday, took the campaign against Open Defecation to Abuja streets and motorparks.

The campaign tagged, “Clean FCT: Use the Toilet” began from Area 1 temporary motorpark, through several motorparks in Garki District.

Drivers and commuters in the motorparks, including traders and residents on the streets were reached with key messages on the dangers of open defecation.

Mrs Chika Ibe from the waste management company explained that the move was to accelerate the attainment of Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in FCT by 2030.

Ibe urged the FCT Administration to strengthen collaboration with concerned citizens, development partners and non-governmental organisations and other government agencies to take the campaign to the door steps of residents.

This, according to her, will significantly improve interventions geared towards ending ODF in the FCT before 2030.

She pointed out that the practice of open defecation, particularly in rural communities with little or no toilets was worrisome.

She said that the ugly practice was predisposing rural dwellers to life-threatening diseases like cholera and other infectious diseases.

Ibe stressed the need for stakeholders to intensify efforts in ending open defecation as soon as possible.

“Nigeria is one of the countries that are still practising open defecation.

“The initial target to end open defecation was 2025 but extended to 2030.

“I am sure we will achieve it if we strengthen our collaboration, intensify our interventions and carry out massive sensitization campaigns.

On her part, a Sanitation Officer from FCT RUWASSA’s Sanitation Department, Mrs Esther Shettima, noted that open defecation still persists despite the availability of public toilets in strategic locations across the FCT.

Shettima, however, acknowledged a significant improvement in ODF status across the territory “but if we relax and don’t do anything about it, we will not be able to achieve the ODF status.

“This is why we are partnering with relevant stakeholders to help drive the message to every household on the dangers of open defecation,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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