Borno Partners with UNICEF to Eliminate Open Defecation, Launches Statewide Roadmap

The Borno State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has launched an ambitious campaign to eradicate open defecation across all 27 local government areas of the state.

Speaking at the unveiling in Maiduguri on Tuesday, Governor Babagana Zulum, represented by his deputy Umar Kadafur, called on residents to support the initiative to achieve an Open Defecation-Free (ODF) Borno.

Highlighting his administration’s six-year commitment to transformative projects in education, health, infrastructure, and sanitation, Zulum described the initiative as a legacy effort.

“This campaign reflects our dedication to creating a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Borno. I urge everyone to take this message to their communities and champion behavioral change,” he said.

The governor also directed government agencies to align their activities with the ODF objective, emphasizing the need for a unified approach to sanitation.

UNICEF’s Chief of the Maiduguri Field Office, Gerida Birukila, praised Borno’s progress, noting that two local government areas—Biu and Shani—are already certified open defecation-free. She emphasized the impact of open defecation on children’s health, including malnutrition and diseases like diarrhea, and stressed the importance of community engagement.

“It’s not just about toilets and water; it’s about understanding their value. A collective commitment is key to achieving this goal,” Birukila said.

James Donoghue, Education Adviser to the British High Commission, commended UNICEF’s broader efforts in Borno, including the Teaching at the Right Level initiative, which has significantly improved literacy and numeracy among children.

The roadmap is set to drive collective action toward a healthier, more hygienic Borno, with government agencies, traditional leaders, and the public pledging support for the initiative.