Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyo State
The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and WaterAid Nigeria, has initiated the review, finalization, and validation of its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) policy to enhance access to clean water and sanitation services across the state.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in Ibadan, the Chairman of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Babalola Afobaje, described the initiative as a significant milestone in strengthening the institutional framework for WASH services.
According to Afobaje, the revised policy document will serve as a strategic blueprint for attracting local and international investments to improve water accessibility, sanitation, and hygiene while working towards an open defecation-free state.
“This document is crucial in ensuring sustainable WASH services, as it outlines the state’s commitment to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene while fostering partnerships with development agencies,” he stated.
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Afobaje further emphasized that the state is committed to translating the WASH policy into actionable laws through an executive order, ensuring long-term sustainability and effective implementation.
The validation process represents a critical step in advancing sustainable development and climate resilience in Oyo State and the broader sub-region. The workshop brought together key stakeholders to ensure the policy is inclusive and meets the diverse needs of communities across the state.
In his goodwill message, UNICEF representative Monday Johnson reiterated UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Oyo State in developing and implementing the WASH policy. He emphasized the importance of documenting actionable steps to drive progress in the sector.
Similarly, the representative of WaterAid Nigeria, Adebayo Alao, reaffirmed the organization’s long-standing partnership with the state in improving WASH services, noting that their support dates back to 1990.
“Today’s engagement marks a defining moment in finalizing a policy that aligns with stakeholders’ expectations and facilitates a coordinated approach towards improving the sector,” Alao stated.
The validation of the WASH policy is expected to provide a structured framework for executing WASH initiatives across Oyo State. It will serve as a guide for environmental sustainability, public health improvement, and long-term socio-economic benefits.
The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Oyo State Water Corporation, Hon. Elias Adeojo; the General Manager of RUWASSA, Mr. Adeduntan; and other key stakeholders committed to advancing the state’s WASH agenda.
With this renewed commitment, Oyo State is poised to make significant progress in ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation, reinforcing its dedication to public health, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic development.
