The Honorable Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo Esq., has called on private sector partners and financial institutions to collaborate with the government in advancing Nigeria’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector, a crucial element in the nation’s socio-economic development.
Speaking at the two-day consultation workshop themed, “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet,” today in Lagos, Goronyo highlighted the pivotal role of the WASH sector in improving the living standards of Nigerians.
He noted that the government has made substantial investments in this area because access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene directly impacts both rural and urban communities.
“The WASH sector is essential to our national development. As part of our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are tasked with ensuring clean water and sanitation for all by 2030,” Goronyo stated.
Emphasizing the SDG Goal 6, which focuses on providing equitable access to water and sanitation, the Minister of State 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 remarked.
While the Federal Government has implemented several measures to address the challenges in the WASH sector, including the “Clean Nigeria Campaign”, Goronyo acknowledged that these efforts alone are insufficient.
He called for greater involvement from the private sector and financial institutions to close the funding gap and enhance the impact of these initiatives.
“The government cannot do it alone. This is why we are urging the private sector to play a crucial role in bridging the gap. We have seen the success that can be achieved when we work together, as evidenced in Jigawa State and 126 local government areas, which are now open defecation-free,” he said.
Rt. Hon. Goronyo highlighted the significant investment needed to meet Nigeria’s WASH goals, noting that an estimated $10 billion annually is required to achieve universal access to basic services by 2030—eight times the current investment.
However, he expressed optimism, stating, “With active participation from the private sector, we believe we can meet this challenge.”
He added, “We are confident that the private sector can contribute up to 50% of the required investment, which will accelerate our progress and enable Nigeria to meet its commitments under the SDGs.”
The Minister of State also lauded the ongoing partnerships with organizations like UNICEF and microfinance banks, which are already contributing to the sector’s progress.
He invited all private sector stakeholders to join this noble cause, working alongside the government to create a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria.
“Your involvement will be remembered as a cornerstone in the success of this campaign. History will recognize your contributions to the nation’s progress,” Goronyo concluded.
Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan
Director Information and Public Relations
