By Ahmed Liman Kingimi
As the world marked Global Handwashing Day 2025, UNICEF, in partnership with the Borno and Katsina State Governments, rallied communities to make handwashing a daily habit — calling it one of the simplest and most powerful ways to save children’s lives.
At a lively event held at Yerwa Central School, Maiduguri, UNICEF’s Officer-in-Charge and Chief of Field Office, Dr. Marie Marcos, urged renewed investment in hygiene infrastructure, stressing that handwashing with soap can prevent up to 30% of diarrheal diseases and 20% of respiratory infections.
“This year’s theme, ‘Be a Handwashing Hero!’, is a rallying call for everyone — from children to community leaders — to make clean hands a daily commitment,” Dr. Marcos said.
Despite progress, she lamented that only 17% of Nigerian households and 20% of schools in Borno have access to proper handwashing facilities. Globally, over 2 billion people still lack basic hygiene access.
In her remarks, Hajja Gana B. Mala, Director of Hygiene at RUWASSA, reminded communities that hygiene is a shared responsibility. “When one person washes their hands properly, everyone benefits. It’s a simple act that protects us all,” she said.
UNICEF revealed that through partnerships in Borno, structured group handwashing has been introduced in 50 schools, reaching over 20,000 children. Officials reaffirmed commitment to expanding access to water, soap, and sanitation — not just for the day’s celebration, but all year round.
“Investing in handwashing,” Dr. Marcos concluded, “is investing in the health, dignity, and future of our children.”
About The Author
