Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has reaffirmed his government’s dedication to addressing flood control and improving sanitation, calling them key priorities for his administration.
He made this known while hosting the National Task Group on Sanitation (NTGS) monitoring team at the Government House in Dutse.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, Governor Namadi highlighted the active roles of the Ministry of Environment and a specially formed Flood Mitigation Task Force in managing flood risks throughout the state.
“We have established task forces at both the state and local government levels. The state team includes external experts in water management who advise the government on best practices, while local task forces implement these recommendations by constructing barricades and other physical structures to divert floodwaters away from communities,” he explained.
On the topic of sanitation, the governor acknowledged the state’s Open Defecation-Free (ODF) status as a major achievement but noted that maintaining it would require continued effort, innovation, and investment.
“Achieving ODF status was not an easy feat. Maintaining it is even more challenging. I want to assure you that the Jigawa State Government has put in place comprehensive strategies—backed by strong political will and resources—to ensure the sustainability of our ODF status,” Governor Namadi said.
He added that a high-level Steering Committee and a Technical Committee, made up of key permanent secretaries and experts, had been established to oversee and monitor the state’s sanitation and hygiene efforts.
Governor Namadi reiterated Jigawa’s commitment to promoting sanitation, enhancing public health, and building environmental resilience, positioning the state as a model for others across Nigeria.
NTGS Team Leader, Benson Attah, praised Jigawa State for reaching the ODF milestone, describing it as a significant accomplishment and an example for other regions.
He encouraged the government to sustain progress through steady policy implementation, active community participation, and infrastructure development.
Mr. Attah also commended the strong political support from the Namadi-led government, pointing out that it has helped create favorable conditions for effective WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs.