NEWSAN Inaugurates Task Group on Water Sanitation and Hygiene in Kano
By Sulaiman Hussain-Kano
November 19, 2024.
In a bid to ensure communities in Kano State have access to clean, adequate, and hygienic water, the Network on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (NEWSAN) inaugurated a Task Group on Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) at an event held at Grand Central Hotel, Kano.
The task group comprises representatives from various ministries, government parastatals, non-governmental organizations, vulnerable groups, and other stakeholders committed to improving water, sanitation, and hygiene in the state.
In his welcoming address, NEWSAN Coordinator Hamza Mustapha emphasized the need for the task group to work tirelessly to eliminate open defecation and ensure access to clean water in communities. He commended the Kano State Government’s dedication to eradicating the menace and urged members to prioritize safeguarding public health.
Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, represented by the Deputy Director of Rural Water Sanitation, Engr. Adeyemi O., described the inauguration as “timely and vital.” He highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including government officials, development partners like UNICEF and Self-Help Africa, civil society organizations, and private sector actors, to ensure impactful and sustainable WASH interventions in the state.
The minister also stressed the critical role of WASH in national development, noting that despite progress, Nigeria still faces significant challenges. He commended Kano State for achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in 26 local government areas and encouraged continued efforts to rid the state and country of open defecation.
Representing the Kano State Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engr. Abdulrazak Ahmed, reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting programs that directly impact citizens’ lives. He attributed the state’s ODF achievements to strong support from the government and urged the federal government to provide additional assistance.
He charged the task group with working collaboratively to identify and address gaps in the WASH sector while ensuring continuous progress.
Inclusive Representation
Speaking on behalf of the inaugurated members, Magaji Shehu, representing people with special needs, expressed gratitude to the organizers for including vulnerable groups in the initiative. He assured that the group would discharge its duties diligently to achieve the goal of eliminating open defecation in Kano State.
The inauguration underscores the commitment of stakeholders to improve water sanitation and hygiene services, enhancing public health and fostering sustainable development in Kano State.
