By Isaac Uzaan
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has called on Benue people to create a healthier environment for themselves by imbibing a culture of safe water, Sanitation, and hygiene practices.
Governor Alia made the call Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at St. Francis’ Primary School, Otukpo during the celebration of Open Defecation Free (ODF) statuses of Ohimini and Ado Local Government Areas.
Represented by the Commissioner, for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Ugwu Odoh, Governor Alia said securing Open Defecation Free status for the two Local Government Areas was a significant milestone and a testament to his administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Benue citizens.
He appreciated the collaborative efforts of stakeholders, including community leaders, UNICEF, Self-help Africa and WaterAid, adding that their expertise and resources significantly contributed to the success of the exercise.
In her remark, the Chief WASH UNICEF Nigeria, Jane Bevan commended the efforts of Benue State Government in eradicating open defecation and creating a healthier environment for the people of Benue State.
She said with the new record, eleven states have so far been declared open defecation free in Benue State, even as she appealed to Benue State Government and other Stakeholders to sustain their support with a view to ensuring that the remaining twelve Local Government Areas are also eradicated of open defecation.
