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Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has described the declaration of the State as Open Defecation Free (ODF) and the presentation of the National ODF Trophy as a historic milestone that underscores his administration’s unwavering commitment to public health, environmental sanitation and the dignity of the people.
The Governor made this remark while receiving the ODF Trophy at a formal ceremony in Katsina, attended by representatives of UNICEF and other development partners, traditional rulers, members of the committee, top government officials and key stakeholders in the SURWASH sector.
He recalled that the ODF declaration was formally made during the 6th Anniversary of the Clean Nigeria Campaign and the 2025 World Toilet Day Commemoration, organised by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in collaboration with the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign and other key SURWASH stakeholders.
“This achievement, by the grace of Almighty Allah, is the result of the collective efforts of our institutions, communities and development partners. It is a landmark success that will significantly improve the health, well-being and dignity of our people,” Governor Radda said.
He noted that the declaration has positioned Katsina among the leading states supporting the Clean Nigeria Campaign and advancing the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal Six (SDG 6) on access to clean water and sanitation for all.
“Katsina is proud to be among the states driving this national agenda. This ODF status shows that with strong political will, community participation and effective partnerships, we can meet global standards in public health and sanitation,” the Governor stated.
Governor Radda commended the Katsina State Ministry of Water Resources and its agencies, including RUWASSA, STOWASSA, SEPA and the SURWASH Programme, as well as development partners such as UNICEF, the World Bank and WaterAid, for their dedication, technical support and teamwork that culminated in the ODF declaration.
“This success will remain an indelible mark in the history of our State. The discipline, professionalism and commitment displayed by all stakeholders reflect our shared resolve to place Katsina among the foremost states in sanitation, environmental health and human development in Nigeria,” he added.
The Governor stressed that while attaining ODF status is a major milestone, sustaining it is even more critical.
“Declaring ODF is one thing; sustaining it is another. I therefore call on the Ministry, relevant agencies, traditional institutions and Local Government Chairmen to ensure continuous community engagement, behavioural change and strict monitoring so that this achievement is sustained for generations to come,” he said.
He further emphasised that all WASH projects must not only be completed but must also be functional and properly maintained.
“Under the SURWASH Programme and other interventions, many water and sanitation facilities have been provided across our communities. These facilities must be operational and well maintained. Public funds and donor resources have been invested, and our people must fully benefit from them,” Governor Radda stated.
He also directed that contractors handling ongoing projects, including those under Zobe Phase 1B and other critical SURWASH infrastructure, be closely monitored to ensure quality delivery, timely completion and strict adherence to standards.
Earlier, the Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr. Bishir Gambo Saulawa, traced Katsina’s long-standing commitment to development and environmental order, recalling that as far back as 1910 during the reign of Sarki Dikko, efforts were already being made to promote structured development and environmental management.
“Today, Katsina is firmly on the national map, not only by location but by achievement, reform and good governance. We commend His Excellency for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of our people. The ODF declaration is a significant step towards improving sanitation, public health and the overall quality of life in the State,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the ODF/ODS Committee, Abubakar Suleiman Abukur, explained that the committee, in collaboration with development partners and relevant agencies, carried out rigorous assessments and intensive community mobilisation to ensure the attainment of ODF status across the State.
“Several local government areas were certified ODF in 2020 and 2021 after meeting the required standards. With the coming of the present administration, the pace of implementation was greatly accelerated. Today, by the grace of God and with the support of UNICEF and other partners, all requirements have been met, and Katsina State has been officially declared Open Defecation Free in line with the 2025 national target,” he said.
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