Abuja National Mosque Joins FG’s Campaign To End Open Defecation By 2030

The Abuja National Mosque has pledged its full support for the Federal Government’s campaign to eliminate open defecation by 2030. This initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, is part of the broader Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene nationwide.

Islamic Leaders Advocate for Cleanliness and Sanitation

During an advocacy visit by Engr Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, the Murshid of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Shehu Galadanchi, applauded the government’s efforts and emphasized that Islam strongly promotes cleanliness and sanitation. Represented by Prof. Kabir Adam, he assured the Minister of the mosque’s full commitment to the campaign.

According to Galadanchi, the Abuja National Mosque has already taken significant steps by providing sanitation facilities for over 6,000 worshippers daily. These include modern toilets, ablution areas serving 300 individuals, and designated spaces for funeral rites and cleansing of the deceased.

He further stated:

“We will encourage Imams across Nigeria to incorporate this sanitation campaign into their sermons and community programs. Ensuring a clean environment is a collective duty, and we are committed to making Nigeria open defecation-free by 2030.”

Federal Government’s Commitment to Ending Open Defecation

Minister Joseph Utsev reiterated the government’s determination to achieve an open defecation-free Nigeria, highlighting that the campaign is a top priority for President Bola Tinubu. He noted that 142 local government areas have already been declared open defecation-free, with Jigawa State leading the way as the first state to fully achieve this milestone.

Expressing optimism, he called for collaboration among religious leaders and emphasized the pivotal role of the Abuja National Mosque in influencing behavioral change within communities. He urged religious leaders to include sanitation and hygiene awareness in their teachings to ensure widespread adoption of proper sanitation practices.

“Through sermons, public teachings, and community engagement, the mosque can serve as a powerful platform to promote hygiene and sanitation across Nigeria. Beyond places of worship, we encourage individuals to uphold cleanliness in their homes and workplaces, fostering a culture of sanitation.”

The Path to a Clean Nigeria: A Collective Responsibility

With the government, religious institutions, and the general public working together, Nigeria is on track to achieving its 2030 open defecation-free target. The role of faith-based organizations like the Abuja National Mosque is crucial in driving awareness and ensuring sustained behavioral change.

For more details on the Clean Nigeria Initiative, visit the official website of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation: Water Resources and Sanitation Ministry