The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminate open defaecation in Nigeria by 2030, revealing that over 45 million Nigerians still practice the habit, while only about 25 per cent of the population has access to safely managed sanitation facilities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this during a press briefing to mark the 2025 World Toilet Day, themed “Sanitation in a Changing World” with the tagline “We’ll Always Need the Toilet.” Represented by Permanent Secretary Mahmud Kambari, Lawal highlighted that the theme reflects the mounting pressures of climate change, rapid urbanisation, and social inequalities that weaken sanitation systems.

According to the minister, safe toilet access remains fundamental to public health and environmental protection. “Toilets hygienically remove human waste, reduce exposure to diseases, and uphold human dignity. Yet, in many areas, sanitation systems are underfunded, poorly managed, or neglected,” he said. Globally, about 4.2 billion people lack access to safe toilets, with Nigeria accounting for over 45 million practicing open defaecation.

Lawal noted that many schools, healthcare centers, and public institutions either lack functional toilets or have facilities in disrepair. In urban areas, insufficient sewerage infrastructure has led to unsafe wastewater disposal, contaminating rivers and streams, and contributing to diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea, typhoid, and intestinal worm infections, which disproportionately affect children under five.

The Federal Government’s commitment is reflected in the Presidential Declaration of a State of Emergency on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene and Executive Order No. 009 (2019) aimed at achieving an Open Defecation Free Nigeria, which is currently under review. The Ministry of Environment has also updated the 2005 National Environmental Sanitation Policy to include improved guidelines for safe excreta and sewage management.

Dr Bahijjahtu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, emphasized the serious health and environmental risks posed by inadequate sanitation, particularly to women, children, and vulnerable groups. “World Toilet Day offers an opportunity to assess progress and renew our commitment to ending open defaecation by 2030,” she stated.

Abubakar Kende, Secretary General of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, described access to sanitation as a human right, stressing the urgency to address challenges including climate stress, poor funding, overcrowding, and cultural barriers.

At the state level, Oyo State, through OYORUWASSA in partnership with UNICEF and SATO, called on stakeholders to prioritise safe sanitation. Chairman Alhaji Babalola Afobaje highlighted toilets as “life-saving infrastructure essential for public health, environmental protection, climate resilience, and human dignity,” urging intensified efforts to achieve an open defaecation-free state by 2028.

General Manager Adeniyi Adeduntan pointed out the disproportionate impact of inadequate sanitation on women and girls, citing heightened health risks, vulnerability to abuse, and school absenteeism. Mr Victor Oyejide, co-founder of Recycledge, further called for increased education, awareness, and investment in innovative sanitation solutions, including mobile and static toilet systems, to ensure dignified access for all.

Nigerian rapper Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, has revealed why he avoids investing in emerging artistes. Speaking on the Adesope Live show, Zlatan described such investments as risky, expressing uncertainty about their potential returns.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

He noted that his primary focus in the music industry is business and financial security. “I will rather go buy a house than put money on these artistes that I’m not sure will be successful or not,” Zlatan said, highlighting his commitment to financial stability and responsibility. He also reflected on the early challenges of his career, including pressures and anxieties he faced while trying to find balance.

Despite his stance on investments, Zlatan confirmed his willingness to collaborate with upcoming talents, recalling that he received similar support when starting his own career.

In a separate revelation, Zlatan disclosed that he quit smoking about four years ago. During a Snapchat session with fans, he explained that although questions about his smoking habits frequently arise, he made the personal choice to stop and respects those who continue the practice.

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to take immediate steps in preparing the national team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to sports analysts, Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifying campaign ended in disappointment after a 4-3 penalty defeat to DR Congo in the African play-offs. The match had ended 1-1 after extra time, denying the country a return to the global stage following its absence from the Qatar 2022 tournament.

Speaking with Footy-Africa, Shorunmu urged the NFF to focus on future challenges and prioritize rebuilding the squad without delay. He emphasized that the federation must act swiftly to develop a strong strategy for the upcoming AFCON.

“What has happened is behind us now, and it is important for Nigerian football to look ahead,” Shorunmu said. “The Africa Cup of Nations is approaching, and proper planning and preparation are essential for the team to perform at its best.”

He noted that time is a critical factor, stressing that fans expect a determined response from the Super Eagles following recent setbacks. Shorunmu believes the players are aware of the nation’s expectations and will strive to redeem themselves at the continental tournament.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Shorunmu acknowledged the widespread disappointment and blamed inadequate preparation for the result. “In terms of preparation, things were a little sloppy,” he said, urging the NFF to prioritize early planning for major competitions moving forward.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to kick off their 2025 AFCON campaign against Tanzania on December 23, before facing Tunisia on December 27 and concluding the group stage against Uganda on December 30 in pursuit of their fourth continental title.