The Oyo State Government has stepped up efforts to eliminate open defecation following a call by the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi.
In response, the state government, through the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, launched a renewed sanitation campaign with the construction of a public toilet facility at Ojoo Market in Ibadan, the state capital. The initiative was officially flagged off on Saturday.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, the project forms part of the government’s broader strategy to improve sanitation and promote public health across the state.
While inaugurating the facility, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, said the project aligns with efforts by the state government and the United Nations Children’s Fund to eradicate open defecation.
Aderinto noted that the state aims to become free of open defecation by 2031 and urged residents and visitors to support the government’s initiative in order to meet the target.
He explained that installing public toilets in busy areas such as markets is a key step toward curbing open defecation while protecting environmental and public health. He added that the government remains committed to strengthening sanitation infrastructure and implementing policies that will ensure cleaner public spaces and a healthier environment for residents.
The commissioner also praised the management of Open Public Spaces for supporting the state’s environmental agenda and contributing to efforts to keep the state clean.
He called on traders, residents, and visitors at Ojoo Market to make proper use of the facility and cooperate with authorities in maintaining good sanitation practices.
The project, executed by Open Public Spaces under the leadership of Abdulateef Abdulganiyu, is expected to provide traders, residents, and visitors with a convenient and hygienic alternative to indiscriminate sanitation practices.