Borno, UNICEF launch roadmap to end open defecation

Borno State Government, in partnership with UNICEF, is set to launch a comprehensive roadmap to eliminate open defecation, aligning with this year’s World Toilet Day on November 19.

The initiative, themed “Countdown to 2030,” aims to accelerate access to sanitation and hygiene services, with the ultimate goal of making Borno an Open Defecation Free (ODF) state. The campaign highlights sanitation as a cornerstone of public health, with a special focus on improving the lives of women and children.

Speaking during a media briefing on Tuesday, Mamita Thakkar, UNICEF’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Manager, underscored the dire consequences of open defecation.

“Open defecation harms physical health, diminishes productivity, hinders school attendance, and affects overall quality of life,” Thakkar said.

She added that nearly half of Borno’s population still lacks access to basic toilets, exposing communities to waterborne diseases like cholera. According to the 2021 WASH NORM report, 53% of Borno residents use basic latrines, while the rest rely on unsafe disposal methods. Public spaces, including schools, markets, and health centers, are similarly affected, exacerbating health risks.

Despite these challenges, Borno has made notable strides, with two local government areas already declared ODF. Thakkar credited the progress to the state’s commitment under Governor Babagana Zulum’s administration, which aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6—universal access to water and sanitation by 2030.

“The roadmap reflects a structured approach to enhancing sanitation infrastructure and service delivery,” she explained. “Sustaining this momentum will require speed, scale, equity, and sustainability.”

Thakkar commended Borno’s leadership and urged the government to prioritize sanitation as a key policy objective, emphasizing that achieving ODF status would enhance health, nutrition, and education outcomes while building community resilience.

“UNICEF pledges continued support in implementing the ODF roadmap,” she added. “Sanitation is not just about health—it’s about unlocking the potential of every child and driving socio-economic development.”

With this roadmap, Borno is setting a bold example in the fight against open defecation, aiming to create healthier, more resilient communities statewide.