The National Task Group on Sanitation has officially validated Ona-Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State Open Defecation Free (ODF), marking a major breakthrough in the State’s campaign to improve sanitation, hygiene, and public health.

The announcement was confirmed recently by the Clean Nigeria Campaign.

Speaking on the development, on Wednesday, the Chairman of OYORUWASSA, Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, attributed the milestone to the effective execution of Governor Makinde’s “Omituntun 2.0” development agenda.

He noted that the administration views access to clean water and proper sanitation as fundamental human rights essential to public health, economic growth, and human dignity.

Afobaje added that the validation aligns with the commitment of the Oyo State Government, to achieve an open-defecation-free status across all 33 local government areas by 2028, an agenda central to the State’s broader environmental and public health reforms.

The ODF confirmation followed a rigorous exercise carried out by the National ODF Task Group in collaboration with the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), Ona-Ara Local Government, and with technical support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The evaluation confirmed 100% access to functional and hygienic toilet facilities in households and public institutions across Ona-Ara.

Afobaje highlighted that Ona-Ara’s success was driven by the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach—an evidence-based model focused on behavioral change and community ownership rather than infrastructure alone.

“Today, Ona-Ara stands as a beacon of hope and an exemplary model for other local governments in the State,” he said. “This achievement has significantly reduced the prevalence of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea, especially among children and the elderly”, he said.

Reaffirming the sustainability of the ODF status, the General Manager of OYORUWASSA, Mr. A.M. Adeduntan, disclosed that the agency has constructed multiple solar-powered motorized boreholes across the local government to ensure reliable access to clean water.

“Sanitation outcomes cannot be sustained without adequate clean water supply. The State remains committed to closing this gap to preserve long-term impact,” Adeduntan stated.

OYORUWASSA further revealed that similar sanitation interventions are ongoing in other local government areas, including Ibarapa East and Egbeda, where efforts are being intensified through a combination of environmental law enforcement and expanded access to standard toilet facilities in public and private spaces.

The declaration of Ona-Ara as Open Defecation Free represents a significant public health victory for Oyo State and serves as a compelling call to action for other regions to adopt and replicate the strategies that made this achievement possible.

E-signed:

Alh. Babalola Afobaje,

Chairman,

OYORUWASSA.

The Oyo State Government, in partnership with UNICEF, has reaffirmed its commitment to ending open defecation and expanding access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services in Ibarapa East Local Government Area.

Chairman of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, said the strong collaboration between the agency and the local government is critical to the success of WASH interventions.

He disclosed that Ibarapa East is a priority area, with UNICEF investing significantly in water access, including the installation of ten solar-powered boreholes.

He added that UNICEF is supporting three LGAs in Oyo State towards Open Defecation Free (ODF) certification, noting that four wards in Ibarapa East are yet to attain the status.

Alhaji Afobaje urged communities to take ownership of the facilities through proper maintenance and active participation of WASH Committees, stressing that collective responsibility is essential to achieving and sustaining ODF status.

The Eleruwa of Eruwa Land, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola, commended the interventions but noted that the existing boreholes are insufficient to meet growing water demands.

He appealed for more facilities, pledged increased community sensitization on toilet use, and called for stronger monitoring to prevent vandalism.

Also speaking, Ibarapa East Local Government Chairman, Hon. Arogundade Kazeem Owolabi, appreciated OYORUWASSA and UNICEF, assuring that the council would closely monitor projects and intensify sensitization efforts in collaboration with traditional leaders.

UNICEF WASH Facilitator, Dr. Orimoloye Emmanuel, noted that only two LGAs in the South-West have attained ODF certification, stressing the need for stronger commitment from local governments, communities and traditional institutions.

He added that sustained community ownership would encourage UNICEF to expand its support across Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government, through the State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Lagos Field Office, and SATO, a brand under LIXIL, has called on stakeholders to prioritize safe sanitation as a critical tool for disease prevention and environmental protection.

The Chairman of OYORUWASSA, Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, stated this on Wednesday during the 2025 World Toilet Day Celebration held at the Local Government Staff Training School Conference Hall, Secretariat, Ibadan. This year’s theme is “We’ll Always Need the Toilet.”

Afobaje underscored the enduring importance of safe, functional, and dignified sanitation systems in all communities. According to him, toilets are not just facilities but “life-saving infrastructure” essential for public health, environmental protection, climate resilience, and human dignity.

He commended existing partnerships particularly with UNICEF for progress in driving the Open Defecation Free (ODF) campaign across Oyo State. However, he stressed the need for intensified efforts to deliver climate-resilient sanitation systems and achieve a total end to open defecation by 2028.

He acknowledged the role of stakeholders at the event, noting their professional contributions as vital to sustaining safe sanitation services in the face of population growth, rapid urbanization, and climate related challenges.

In his welcome address, the General Manager of OYORUWASSA, Mr. Adeniyi Adeduntan, reaffirmed that access to safe toilets remains a constant necessity, regardless of technological or societal changes. He explained that sanitation must be firmly integrated into long-term planning, budgeting, infrastructure development, and behavioural change initiatives.

Adeduntan highlighted the consequences of inadequate or malfunctioning sanitation systems, which often lead to pollution and disease outbreaks. He noted that women and girls are disproportionately affected through heightened risks of abuse, poor health outcomes, and school absenteeism due to the absence of safe and hygienic toilets.

He emphasized that toilets are a basic human right and form the foundation for public health, gender equality, and sustainable development.

The workshop focused on reviewing the current sanitation and faecal waste management situation in Oyo State, identifying gaps and opportunities, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders and developing actionable strategies to expand toilet access and sustain ODF status across all local government areas.

In a keynote presentation, Mr. Victor Oyejide, Co-founder of Recycledge and Partnership Lead of the Young Water Professionals (International Water Association), called for continuous education and awareness on dignified sanitation. He outlined challenges faced by vulnerable groups especially women, girls, and young people who lack access to clean and comfortable toilet facilities.

Oyejide noted that many schoolgirls miss classes during their menstrual periods due to inadequate WASH facilities. He urged greater government and private sector investment in innovative sanitation solutions, including mobile and static toilet systems. He also encouraged the public to adopt safe toilet practices, maintain personal hygiene, and use protective items such as hand sanitizers, soap, and tissue paper.

He added that sanitation should be viewed not only as a health priority but also as an economic opportunity for innovation and entrepreneurship.

At the end of the workshop, stakeholders expressed confidence that the discussions and new partnerships formed would accelerate efforts toward achieving an Open Defecation Free Oyo State and improve sustainable faecal sludge management across communities.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Hon. Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State.
November 19, 2025

The Oyo State Government, through the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), in partnership with Hershima & Partners Ltd. and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Lagos Field Office, has called on community leaders across the State to end the stigmatization of adolescent girls during their menstrual cycle.

The call was made at the closing session of a four-week step-down training and capacity-building programme on improved Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) for schools and communities in Egbeda and Ona-Ara Local Government Areas. The programme, held at the Local Government Staff Training Centre, Secretariat, Ibadan, focused on equipping girls, parents, teachers, and community stakeholders with essential knowledge and skills to support menstrual hygiene.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, described menstrual hygiene as a fundamental aspect of human development.

“Menstruation is a natural sign of life and growth. Our girls must understand that it is nothing to be ashamed of. They deserve support, not stigma. They also need to know how to care for themselves and maintain good hygiene for healthy living,” he said.

Alhaji Afobaje noted that while the agency’s core mandate includes ending open defecation, improving menstrual hygiene among schoolgirls has become an important area of focus. He stated that the provision of separate toilet facilities for girls will be implemented gradually across the State, but awareness and education remain the most crucial steps in the immediate term. He therefore urged parents, guardians, community leaders, and schools to support adolescent girls, noting that not all menstrual cycles come without discomfort or pain.

He added that OYORUWASSA will intensify sensitization efforts to ensure girls are better understood, protected, and cared for.

The Chief Executive Officer of Hershima & Partners Ltd., Mrs. Ada Oko-Williams, explained that the workshop adopted a human-centred design approach that empowered female students to identify challenges and develop practical menstrual hygiene solutions.

“We worked with students, teachers, parents, and community leaders to co-create solutions. The girls analyzed their experiences and developed innovative ideas, such as reusable pads made from natural materials like banana fibre, communication tools for engaging boys, and mobile menstrual hygiene kits,” she said.

She highlighted children as strong agents of change, noting that many took the knowledge home to educate their families and neighbors. She also mentioned innovations created during the programme, including hot-water bottles for menstrual cramps, relaxation spaces for menstruating students, and improved communication strategies that involve boys in menstrual hygiene awareness.

In his welcome address, the General Manager  Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, Mr. Adeniyi Adeduntan, commended the programme for enhancing the menstrual hygiene knowledge of young girls and out-growing mothers who previously lacked adequate information. He stated that the training covered key areas such as making reusable pads, personal hygiene practices, proper washing of underwear, and recognizing physical signs that indicate the onset of menstruation.

He urged parents, especially mothers, to pay closer attention to the girl child, whom he described as “more fragile and in need of guidance.”

Students who participated also shared testimonies. Miss Abiola Opemiposi of Elekuro High School, Ona-Ara, and Miss Chidule Praise of Christ Anglican Secondary School, Egbeda, said the training improved their understanding of menstrual hygiene and boosted their confidence to educate other girls.

They identified major challenges affecting menstrual hygiene, including the high cost of sanitary pads, lack of clean toilets, inadequate water supply, and stigma caused by soaked pads.

As part of their innovative outputs, the students produced reusable and biodegradable menstrual pads, pad banks, biodegradable disposal pits, menstrual-cycle calendars, washable reusable pads, and a mobile “toilet on wheels.”

The event also featured the announcement of winning innovation schools. In Egbeda LGA, Community High School, Alarere, took first place; Christ Anglican Secondary School, Akinfenwa, came second; while Community High School, Alakia, placed third. In Ona-Ara LGA, Community High School, Oke-Ogbere, emerged first; Community High School, Sawia, came second; and Elekuro High School placed third.

Certificates and prizes were presented to outstanding participants. Community High School, Alarere, emerged the overall State winner and received a sewing machine, while Community High School, Oke-Ogbere and Community High School, Sawia, came second and third respectively.

The ceremony concluded with a song composed and performed by the students, titled “My Period is My Pride,” emphasizing that menstruation is natural, clean, and a symbol of womanhood.

The Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA) in collaboration with United Nations Children Funds (UNICEF) has joined the rest of the world to commemorate Global Hand washing Day, emphasizing the importance of regular hand washing for healthy living.

The 2025 Global Hand washing Day celebration, held at the Western Hall of the Oyo State House of Assembly Complex, Secretariat, Ibadan, focused on promoting proper hand hygiene and increasing public awareness about the prevention of infectious diseases.

The annual event, themed “Be a Hand washing Hero,” brought together stakeholders from government agencies, health institutions, schools, and the private sector, all emphasizing the importance of regular hand washing with soap as a simple yet powerful tool for safeguarding health. Participants were encouraged to take personal responsibility for maintaining cleanliness, adopting healthy hygiene practices, and inspiring others to do the same in order to build a healthier and more resilient society.

The Chairman of Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, said the event was organized to educate residents on the benefits of maintaining proper hand hygiene as an effective way to prevent diseases.

He noted that consistent hand washing helps protect against illnesses such as diarrhea, cholera, and other infections. He urged people to make hand washing a daily habit, especially after cooking, using the toilet, or touching objects and surfaces.

“Being an advocate of hand washing means being conscious and consistent with washing your hands at every opportunity,” he said.

Afobaje explained that, OYORUWASSA has continued to sensitize the public through radio campaigns, community outreach programmes, and the distribution of educational materials to promote hand hygiene across the state. He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to ensuring that residents have access to clean water and soap for proper hand washing.

Highlighting its achievements, the Chairman revealed that OYORUWASSA has provided 10 solar-powered boreholes  in Ona-Ara, Egbeda, and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas, particularly in primary schools and health centres.

He added that the Agency has also visited communities to educate leaders, teachers, and health workers on protecting and maintaining the boreholes for sustainable use.

In his goodwill message, The State WASH Facilitator, Mr. Sakiru Otusanya representing Mr. Monday Johnson, the WASH Specialist based in Lagos, appreciated all dignitaries present. He acknowledged the presence of officials from the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), representatives from the private sector, traditional leaders, market leaders, school authorities, and health workers.

He noted that October 15th is globally recognized as Global Hand washing Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness and promoting proper hand washing practices. This year’s theme, “Be a Hand washing Hero,” calls on everyone to champion hygiene and healthy living within their communities.

He explained that according to 2021 national data, only 8% of Oyo State residents had access to hand washing facilities. However, through the collaborative efforts of UNICEF, RUWASSA, local governments, and other partners, the state has made remarkable progress, recording 772 Open Defecation Free (ODF)-certified communities.

He also emphasized that hand washing remains a vital indicator of public health and that clean, safe water is essential for the practice, as contaminated water undermines hygiene efforts. He commended UNICEF’s continued support in promoting climate-resilient water systems and improving sanitation across Oyo State.

The Facilitator described hand washing as a simple, affordable, and effective way to prevent diseases, particularly those linked to poor sanitation. He cautioned against the habit of merely rinsing hands with water without using soap, stressing that proper hand washing must be done with clean water and soap to remove germs effectively.

He concluded by urging all community members, leaders, and health workers to continue promoting good hygiene and to remain true hand washing heroes in their various communities.

In his goodwill message, The General Manager of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Mr. Adeduntan Adeniy, has emphasized the importance of handwashing as a vital practice for maintaining good health and preventing diseases.

Speaking during the commemoration of Global Handwashing Day on October 15th, he noted that the United Nations set aside the day to promote hygiene globally. He added that Oyo State, under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde,  UNICEF and RUWASSA, joined the rest of the world to mark the day with the theme: BE A HAND WASHING HERO ”

Adeduntan urged citizens to embrace regular handwashing at critical times—before eating, after using the toilet, and before breastfeeding—stressing that it is a simple but powerful act that saves lives by preventing diseases.

Speaking on the agency’s efforts to improve water and sanitation across the state, He stated that RUWASSA, in partnership with UNICEF, has executed several projects including the construction of solar-powered boreholes and toilet facilities in schools and communities. He added that the agency recently inspected completed projects in Ona Ara, Egbeda, and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas to ensure quality and sustainability.

He reaffirmed RUWASSA’s commitment to expanding access to clean water, promoting hygiene, and supporting Oyo State’s drive to achieve the Open Defecation Free (ODF) target and other WASH goals.

In a renewed effort to combat the effects of climate change, the Oyo State Government has unveiled plans to inaugurate a Task Force Committee on Climate Change as part of measures to safeguard the environment and strengthen resilience in schools and communities.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, disclosed this during a two-day capacity-building workshop on climate change resilience, mitigation, and adaptation, organized by RUWASSA in partnership with UNICEF Lagos Field Office. The programme, held at the Local Government Staff Training School Hall II, Secretariat, Ibadan, brought together key stakeholders from schools and communities across the State.

Alhaji Afobaje noted that the initiative was timely, given the increasing havoc caused by climate change. He stressed that RUWASSA is committed to collaborating with development partners to provide essential infrastructure such as toilets and boreholes in schools, thereby ensuring access to clean water and reducing pollution in the State’s water systems.

He commended UNICEF for supporting the State Government, describing the partnership as a major step towards strengthening the capacity of schools and communities to respond to climate-related challenges. According to him, “all hands must be on deck to reduce the damages caused by climate change, and this programme is a clear demonstration of our collective commitment.”

In his good will messages, State WASH Facilitator, Mr. Sakiru Otusanya, highlighted the importance of local-level action in tackling climate change. He explained that efforts at the sub-national level feed into global reporting, adding that schools play a crucial role in shaping community-wide responses. He encouraged participants to share their ideas and experiences, stressing that the goal was to catalyze climate action across schools and, by extension, communities in Oyo State.

Delivering a technical session,  National WASH Facilitator, Mr. George Bekinbo, spoke on climate-resilient planning, mitigation, and adaptation strategies. He emphasized the need for individuals, schools, and communities to plant trees in their surroundings to combat deforestation and environmental degradation.

Also speaking, another  National WASH Facilitator, Mrs. Anita Enyekwe, focused on plastic waste management and climate action monitoring. She urged participants to embrace recycling and adopt sustainable waste practices, noting that “what is seen as waste today can become a source of wealth tomorrow.”

Adding his voice, Co-Founder of Recycledge, Mr. Victor Oyejide, pointed out that children and young people are central to achieving climate goals and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He described the training as a timely platform for knowledge-sharing, particularly in advancing resilience, mitigation, and adaptation measures in line with the 2030 Agenda.

The two-day workshop featured technical sessions, knowledge-sharing discussions, and a symbolic tree-planting exercise. Participants left with renewed commitment to champion climate action within schools and communities, reinforcing the vision of a greener, more climate-resilient Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has commenced the construction of a 400,000-litre capacity elevated Braitwaite water tank at Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan. This initiative is part of efforts to upgrade the airport towards achieving international status.

This was disclosed by the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Water Corporation, Hon. Elias Adeojo, during a meeting with engineers of the Corporation overseeing the project.

Hon. Adeojo explained that the water supply project is being implemented in three phases. The first phase currently involves the excavation of trenches for pipeline laying and backfilling. The second phase will cover the welding and installation of pipelines to key locations across the airport premises,while the third and final phase involves the construction of the 400,000 litre capacity elevated braitwaite tank, which will supply water to the airport using gravity based distribution.

He added that all aspects of the project are set to run concurrently to ease execution and maintain quality standards.

Hon Adeojo emphasised that the project is of strategic importance to Governor Seyi Makinde, who has shown strong commitment through sustained support. He therefore urged the engineers to put in their best and deliver quality output across all phases of the project.

The water project according to the Chairman would be fast tracked and once completed, is expected to significantly improve water supply at the airport and contribute to its readiness for international flight operations.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State

The General Manager of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), Mr. Adeduntan Adeniyi, marked his birthday with a modest yet heartfelt celebration attended by colleagues, friends, and well-wishers. The event, held at the Agency, reflected Mr. Adeduntan’s humility, leadership, and commitment to service. It was an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie as staff gathered to honour a man who has continually demonstrated excellence and integrity in public service.

In his remarks, Mr. Adeduntan expressed profound appreciation to the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni, for her unwavering support and inspirational leadership. He described her as a pillar in the state’s civil service structure whose encouragement and guidance have positively impacted his professional journey. “I am deeply grateful to the Head of Service, Mrs. Oni, for her kind words and support. Her leadership has been a great source of motivation not just to me but to the entire public service,” he noted.

The celebration also provided an opportunity for staff members to express their admiration for Mr. Adeduntan’s visionary leadership at OYORUWASSA. Many acknowledged his efforts in advancing water and sanitation projects across the state, particularly in rural communities. His tenure has been marked by progress, accountability, and a passion for development, aligning with the vision of the present administration in Oyo State.

As the event concluded, prayers and good wishes were offered for continued success, good health, and long life for Mr. Adeduntan Adeniyi. The gathering reaffirmed the unity and shared purpose within OYORUWASSA under his leadership, as the Agency continues to work toward sustainable water and sanitation access for all.

The Oyo State Government in collaboration with the United Nations’ Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commissioned newly completed solar-powered boreholes and toilet facilities at Egbeda, Ona Ara, and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas of Oyo State to improve sanitation and hygiene.

While commissioning the projects, the Chairman, Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, emphasized the importance of the projects in advancing the health and socioeconomic well-being of rural dwellers.

He said his agency and UNICEF are committed to expanding access to clean water and improving sanitation infrastructure in rural and peri-urban communities.

Afobaje explained that the facilities were constructed under a joint initiative by the Oyo State Government and UNICEF, aimed at delivering sustainable and inclusive water and sanitation services.

Alhaji Afobaje reiterated that the commissioning is just one milestone in an ongoing effort to expand water and sanitation services across all 33 Local Government areas of the State.

He added that the solar-powered boreholes are designed to provide safe and clean drinking water to thousands of residents, while the gender-sensitive toilet facilities promote hygiene, dignity, and public health in the beneficiary communities.

The Chairman noted that access to clean water and adequate sanitation is not only a basic human right but also a cornerstone of sustainable development- particularly in underserved areas where such amenities are lacking.

He said, “This symbolic commissioning represents our Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every citizen of Oyo State, regardless of location, has access to basic services like clean water and proper sanitation. These solar-powered boreholes and toilets are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and community-focused. We are not only solving today’s problems but building a healthier future.”

In his remarks, the General Manager, Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, Mr. Adeniyi Adeduntan, stated that the event marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts to improve access to clean water and sanitation across Oyo State.

He said the projects, undertaken by OYORUWASSA and UNICEF, are designed to directly address the pressing needs of rural communities and improve public health outcomes.

“The solar-powered boreholes will provide reliable and sustainable access to safe drinking water, while the toilet facilities are part of our broader campaign to promote hygiene and end open defecation”, he said.

He said the projects, undertaken by OYORUWASSA and UNICEF, are designed to directly address the pressing needs of rural communities and improve public health outcomes.

“The solar-powered boreholes will provide reliable and sustainable access to safe drinking water, while the toilet facilities are part of our broader campaign to promote hygiene and end open defecation”, he said.

Orimoloye emphasized the need for sustained political will and community ownership to maintain and scale the gains made.

He urged Local Governments, traditional leaders, and civil society to prioritize long-term investments in WASH infrastructure and monitoring systems. “To ensure lasting impact, we must go beyond installations, we must foster a culture of maintenance, education, and inclusivity,” he added.

Community leaders, traditional rulers, and Local Government officials who attended the events expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government, OYORUWASSA, and UNICEF for the intervention.

They noted that the facilities would significantly reduce the burden of water scarcity and improve hygiene standards, particularly for women and children who are most affected by inadequate infrastructure.

They promised to take ownership of the facilities, ensure proper maintenance, and uphold hygienic practices.

Across the three Local Government areas, ten solar powered boreholes and eleven toilet facilities were commissioned.