Why FCT Will Enforce Adherence To Open Defecation Policy – RUWASSA Boss

BY EVELYN DADU – The Executive Director of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency RUWASSA, Dr. Mohammed Ali Dan-Hassan, has declared that adherence to open defecation policy is not negotiable in the nation’s capital.

Dan-Hassan, who stated this on Thursday, January 18, 2024 while speaking with journalists in his office, said those still engaging in open defecation must as a matter of policy, desist from such acts, otherwise the sanitation bylaws and sanctions would be appropriately applied.

The Executive Director said the Agency will implement and enforce stringent penalties for open defecation to deter individuals from engaging in such unhygienic practices.

Dan-Hassan further said that the FCT Administration has been investing in the development of proper sewage management systems and waste disposal infrastructure to ensure efficient disposal of human waste.

He assured that the Agency would ensure upgrades in the household sanitation ladder, especially in rural communities and expand public convenience facilities to accommodate the growing population, in line with the FCT Infrastructural development plan.

Dan-Hassan also said that the FCT Administration has made provisions for public toilets in strategic locations in various parts of the city, satellite towns and rural communities, stressing that open defecation poses significant health and environmental risks.

The RUWASSA boss noted that addressing the issue was paramount for the well-being of communities in the FCT, adding that the current commitment is to make at least three out of the six Area Councils Open Defecation Free (ODF) this year (2024).

In the words of Dan-Hassan; “Presently, there are 117 out of 774 Local Government Areas that have been certified and declared ODF in Nigeria.

“Well maintained public toilets in strategic locations across the FCT are to ensure convenient access to the residents.

“We need to encourage residents to take ownership of their health and personal hygiene and work collectively to maintain cleanliness.

“Together, a Clean FCT is possible,” he said.