A traditional ruler in Benue State, Tyo-or Tsambe Ward, Tyav Aondoakaa, has praised the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and its partners for their efforts in the campaign to eliminate open defecation.
During a promotional campaign for improved sanitation across the 12 wards in Vandeikya Local Government Area, the monarch urged his people to adopt toilet use in order to end the practice of open defecation. The campaign was organized by the Benue State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, in collaboration with UNICEF and LIXIL, the sponsor.
He emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating, “The message from UNICEF and its partners is one we must all embrace for our own benefit. We must start building safe toilets in homes that lack them to stop open defecation, which has been a widespread issue.”
The monarch pointed out that this practice is directly linked to diseases caused by water and air pollution, urging immediate action to create healthier communities.
“I am personally grateful to UNICEF for enlightening our people and encouraging changes in behavior and lifestyle that ensure better health, a safer environment, and improved well-being,” he added.
The Acting General Manager of Benue RUWWASSA, Mr. Tony Mkpen, represented by the UNICEF Desk Officer, Mr. Adzaagee Douglas, also commended the people of Tsambe Council Ward for their strong support for the campaign.
“This large turnout demonstrates that the community has accepted the program. I also thank LIXIL for choosing the 12 council wards in Vandeikya LG for this sanitation initiative and UNICEF for its continuous advocacy for women and children in Benue State,” he said.
Mkpen encouraged the people of Tsambe to adopt toilet use in their homes, noting that building improved toilets is a step toward a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
Nanen Gangese, the Team Lead, highlighted the numerous benefits of improved sanitation, including socio-economic, health, and environmental advantages. He explained that open defecation significantly contributes to diseases such as diarrhoea, cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever.
The Principal of Universal Basic Education, Junior Secondary School, Gbem Tsambe, also praised the initiative, calling the campaign to stop open defecation the best development for the community.
