In a gathering of the Rotary Club of Abuja Maitama, chaired by the club president Mrs Ijeoma on Wednesday, the spotlight shone brightly on the imperative issue of water and sanitation, echoing the urgent call for a Clean Nigeria. The meeting, graced by esteemed guests and speakers, resounded with the fervent determination to combat open defecation and drive positive change across the nation.
The guest speaker, Mr. Peter Bassey, a member of the Organized Private Sector in Water Hygiene and Sanitation (OPS-WASH), was represented at the Rotary Club of Abuja Maitama by Dandali Garba Isaac . The focus of his address was on how Rotary Clubs can contribute to making Nigeria Open Defecation Free (ODF).
Isaac informed attendees that Peter is not only a Rotarian but also the Founder/CEO of P I B Global Services LTD. He expressed Peter’s unwavering determination to eradicate open defecation in Nigeria, citing Nigeria’s unfortunate status as the headquarters of open defecation.
Mr Peter, through his representative at the event, eloquently articulated the vision of achieving an Open Defecation Free Nigeria, urging concerted efforts towards this noble goal. Highlighting the stark reality of 40 million Nigerians still practicing open defecation, he emphasized the need for collaboration and partnership to tackle this pressing issue.
The concept of providing free services of public toilets, coupled with innovative solutions like the free sharing of toilet facilities offer a pathway towards sustainability. By harnessing bio-gas and biochar from human waste, Nigeria can pave the way for a greener, more prosperous future, while simultaneously addressing the scourge of open defecation.
Peter has also spearheaded various projects in the WASH sector, including the installation of the first-ever Free Public Urinal at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja. This innovative urinal converts human urine into organic fertilizer and is currently operational, thanks to sponsorship from the Rotary Club of Abuja Wuse II.
Mrs Okpara, the National Coordinator, Clean Nigeria Use Toilet Campaign Secretariat, Federal Ministry of Water Resources who was also a speaker at the event, underscored the critical role of collective action in ending open defecation. Drawing attention to Nigeria’s unfortunate ranking as the second-largest country in the world and the number one in Africa with open defecation practices, Mrs. Opara urged stakeholders to join hands in revolutionizing sanitation practices and spurring economic growth. With over 40 million Nigerians practicing open defecation, the shift towards sustainable sanitation practices holds immense promise, not only in environmental stewardship but also in economic empowerment.
Mrs Opara’s insights into the economic implications of open defecation resonated deeply, as she highlighted the potential for turning human waste into organic fertilizer
Also at the event was the official inauguration of the investiture committee of the incoming president of the chapter. The inauguration of the investiture committee further solidified the commitment of Rotary Club members to drive change. The committee which was inaugurated at the meeting by the incoming president had members charged to ensure that a befitting ceremony is achieved. The committee is entrusted with the noble responsibility of spearheading diligent jobs.
Ultimately, Mr. Peter was awarded a certificate for his role as a guest speaker.
As the Rotary Club of Abuja embarks on this journey towards a Clean Nigeria, the members are charged with a sense of purpose and urgency. With dedication, collaboration, and innovation, they stand poised to make a profound impact, transforming lives and communities for generations to come. Together, they march forward, unwavering in their commitment to build a nation where every citizen has access to clean water and sanitation, and where the dignity of every individual is upheld.
