Ikenne serves as the pilot local council for Open Defecation Free (ODF) validation in the state, as part of the goal to eliminate open defecation in all local government areas by 2025.
During their visit to the Ministry in Abeokuta, Commissioner for Rural Development, Mrs. Olufemi Ilori Oduntan, emphasized the state's commitment to creating a safer and cleaner environment. The state has already constructed numerous toilet facilities in the local council to promote proper hygiene, with plans to replicate these efforts across all local councils.
The Commissioner called the community to embrace a change in behaviour toward personal hygiene, recognizing its importance in promoting a healthier and more prosperous society.
She also encouraged well-meaning Nigerians to collaborate with the state government in providing additional public toilets to combat open defecation.
Mr. Adetayo Adewale, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, acknowledged that open defecation was previously a norm in some communities due to the lack of sanitation facilities.
However, he noted significant progress made through various federal, state, and local government interventions toward achieving an Open Defecation Free society by 2025.
Responding the spokesperson of NTGS, Mr. Chibuike Nwayanwu said the validation review exercise is to ascertain the level of commitment of the state and the community in ending open defecation and to give final verdict which will place Ikenne local council as the second local government area in the south west to attain ODF status.
Earlier in his address, the Programme Manager, Mr. Sola Ogunbo said the state commitment to end open defecation is gradually yielding results, commending the State government for the enduring effort.
