FG Seeks Private Sector Partnership To Advance WASH Sector

The Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, has called on private sector partners and financial institutions to collaborate with the government in advancing Nigeria’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector.

Speaking at a two-day consultation workshop in Lagos, themed “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet,” Goronyo emphasized the need for greater involvement from the private sector to bridge the funding gap and enhance the impact of WASH initiatives.

Goronyo highlighted the success achieved in Jigawa State and 126 local government areas, which are now open defecation-free, as evidence of the effectiveness of public-private partnerships.

He stressed that the government cannot achieve its WASH goals alone and requires the support of private sector partners.

The Minister emphasized the crucial role of the WASH sector in improving living standards and socio-economic development, noting that access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene directly impacts both rural and urban communities.

“This goal takes on greater significance when we consider the risks faced by women and girls, who are often exposed to indignity and danger due to the absence of proper sanitation facilities,” he added.

The Minister while emphasizing the SDG Goal 6, which focuses on providing equitable access to water and sanitation, stressed the need for collective action, particularly to end open defecation.

“This goal takes on greater significance when we consider the risks faced by women and girls, who are often exposed to indignity and danger due to the absence of proper sanitation facilities,” he added.

Goronyo who explained that the Federal Government has implemented several measures to address the challenges in the WASH sector, including the “Clean Nigeria Campaign” emphasized that these efforts are insufficient.

He acknowledged the challenges in the WASH sector and the need for significant investment to meet Nigeria’s WASH goals, estimated at $10 billion annually. However, he expressed optimism that with active participation from the private sector, the nation can meet these challenges.

The Minister who lauded the ongoing partnerships with UNICEF and microfinance banks urged all private sector stakeholders to join the noble cause,by  partnering with the government to create a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria.”

Georgina Humphrey. Edited By Shakira Alabi