By League for Social Justice
It is both alarming and disheartening to confront the reality that nearly 179 million Nigerians—more than three-quarters of the population—live amidst unclean environments. This staggering figure, as revealed by the State of the Nigerian Environment (STONE) report, is a clarion call for urgent and transformative action.
A National Emergency
In a country blessed with abundant natural resources and a resilient, youthful population, the prevalence of overflowing dumpsites, poorly maintained drainage systems, and indiscriminate waste disposal is a national failure. From Lagos to Kano, Ibadan to Port Harcourt, the daily struggle against filth is a shared reality for urban and rural communities alike.
The statistics are damning:
48 million Nigerians still engage in open defecation, making Nigeria the global leader in this shameful practice.
54.5% of the population lacks access to basic sanitation, exposing millions to preventable health risks.
89% of Nigerians have no access to proper waste management systems, leading to contaminated water, degraded agricultural lands, and recurring cholera outbreaks.
This crisis transcends political affiliations, religious beliefs, and ethnic divides. It demands a united response from all sectors of society.
The Human and Environmental Costs
The consequences of this environmental degradation are far-reaching:
Health Risks: Poor sanitation and contaminated water are breeding grounds for diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and polio. The impact on children is particularly severe, with preventable diseases claiming thousands of young lives each year.
Economic Impact: The decline in agricultural productivity and the costs of treating sanitation-related illnesses strain families and the national economy.
Environmental Damage: Clogged waterways exacerbate urban flooding, while the burning of waste contributes to air pollution and climate change.
What Needs to Be Done
To address this crisis, a multi-pronged, collaborative approach is essential:
Strengthen Waste Management Infrastructure
• Establish and enforce effective waste collection systems in urban and rural areas.
• Promote recycling programs to reduce waste volumes and create jobs.
Invest in Sanitation Facilities
• Ensure public access to clean and functioning toilets, particularly in schools, markets, and transportation hubs.
• Expand open-defecation-free (ODF) initiatives across all 774 Local Government Areas, with clear timelines and accountability mechanisms.
Community Engagement and Education
• Educate citizens on the importance of proper waste disposal and hygiene practices.
• Promote community-led sanitation projects to foster ownership and sustainability.
Leverage Technology and Innovation
• Explore cost-effective waste-to-energy solutions to address waste buildup while generating power.
• Implement digital platforms to monitor sanitation progress and ensure transparency.
Policy and Enforcement
• Implement stricter regulations to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and pollution by industries.
• Hold both public and private entities accountable for environmental violations.
A Call to Action
The time for complacency is over. “Living in dirt” should not be a defining characteristic of Nigeria, a nation with so much potential. It is time for citizens, civil society, and the government to rise together and declare: Enough is enough.
This is not just a fight for cleaner streets; it is a fight for health, dignity, and the future of our children. Every Nigerian has a role to play, from proper waste disposal in our homes to holding our leaders accountable for systemic reforms.
Let this be a turning point. Share this message, engage in your community, and demand the change Nigeria deserves.
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