The General Manager of the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), Chief Olorunfemi Oladipo, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving sanitation and hygiene practices across Kwara State, as he delivered remarks at the ongoing “Say No to Open Defecation” Campaign Sensitization Programme held at a major market square.
The programme, organized by the Kwara for Kwarans Initiative in collaboration with RUWASA, brought together market leaders, traders, women groups, and community stakeholders, with the aim of educating residents on the dangers of open defecation and the need for cleaner, healthier environments.
Speaking at the event, Chief Oladipo described the initiative as timely and impactful, noting that it aligns with the state’s broader goal of promoting public health and environmental sustainability. He commended the organizers for championing a cause that directly affects the wellbeing of communities.
According to him, the campaign represents a significant step toward transforming local communities from unhygienic conditions to cleaner and safer environments. He emphasized that proper sanitation practices would not only improve public health but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
“This is a great idea for the betterment of Kwarans. RUWASA highly commends this initiative, as it will help move our people from dirty environments to clean and healthy communities,” he stated.
The RUWASA boss assured participants that the agency would continue to play its part by providing necessary support, particularly in the provision of sanitation facilities and access to clean water. He stressed that infrastructure development must go hand-in-hand with public awareness to achieve lasting results.
Chief Oladipo also expressed appreciation to market leaders and women in the marketplace for their active participation and cooperation, urging them to take ownership of the campaign and sustain the message within their communities.
“Let us all keep our environment clean. Together, we can build communities we are proud of,” he added.
In a related development, the Kwara State Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Usman Yunusa Lade, also addressed participants at the event, where he applauded the vision behind the programme and its potential to drive meaningful change at the grassroots level.
Hon. Lade commended individuals and groups who conceived the initiative, describing it as a thoughtful and impactful intervention for community development. He noted that such programmes demonstrate the power of collective thinking and action in addressing societal challenges.
He further extended his appreciation to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his continuous support for youth-driven initiatives and community-based development programmes. According to the Commissioner, the Governor’s commitment to improving the lives of Kwarans has created an enabling environment for impactful projects to thrive.
“Our Governor is a great leader who deserves commendation for his unwavering support for the people, especially the youth. I am confident that if this project is presented to him, he will support it in ways that will positively surprise everyone,” he said.
The Commissioner called on residents to embrace the campaign and work collectively to eliminate open defecation across the state. He stressed the importance of community participation in achieving sustainable sanitation goals.
He concluded by urging all stakeholders to join hands in promoting hygiene, maintaining clean surroundings, and building healthier communities for present and future generations.
Earlier in his opening remarks, Amb. Anjorin Samuel Babatunde, Convener of Kwara for Kwarans Initiative, highlighted the importance of collective efforts in achieving a cleaner and healthier environment, he appreciated Kwara State Government, The Rural Water Supply Sanitation Agency [RUWASSA] and The Majority Leader of Kwara State House of Assembly Hon.Barr Oba Mogaji for their love for Kwarans, especially the Oja Tuntun Market.
9japarrot reports that The “Say No to Open Defecation” campaign continues to gain momentum, as stakeholders express optimism that sustained awareness and collaboration will lead to a cleaner and more sanitary Kwara State.
