By Samuel Luka
The Bauchi State Government has launched an advocacy campaign against open defecation in Tafawa Balewa, calling on traditional institutions to drive behavioral change for improved sanitation and hygiene.
The campaign was flagged off on Tuesday at the Palace of the Gung Zaar of Zaar Chiefdom, Mhrim Namchi, in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area.
Representing the Commissioner of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Mohammed Dambam, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry conveyed the commissioner’s apology for his absence due to another official engagement.
“It is with great honor and profound respect that I stand before you today on behalf of the Bauchi State Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to officially flag off this important advocacy campaign against open defecation in Tafawa Balewa,” he said.
He commended the Gung Zaar for his commitment to the health, dignity, and well-being of his people, stressing that traditional institutions play a critical role in promoting health behaviors and mobilizing grassroots support for public health initiatives.
The ministry also acknowledged the support of WaterAid Nigeria for partnering with the state government to improve sanitation and hygiene practices.
“Their dedication to promote access to clean water, decent sanitation, and improved hygiene is making a positive impact across our communities,” he added.
The campaign aims to strengthen community awareness, encourage behavioral change, and foster stronger collaboration between government, traditional institutions, community stakeholders, and development partners to achieve an open defecation-free status.
“We recognize that sustainable success can only be achieved through the active involvement and leadership of our traditional rulers. Your voice carries great influence in getting communities to embrace proper sanitation practices and protect the health of future generations,” the permanent secretary stated.
He noted that Governor Bala Mohammed has instituted several interventions to address public health challenges in the state.
A state cholera technical working group under the Ministry of Health has also been given full support to tackle disease outbreaks linked to poor sanitation.
The ministry urged all stakeholders present to work with renewed commitment toward building cleaner, healthier, and more dignified communities for the people of Bauchi State.
In his remarks, the Gung Zaar of Zaar Chiefdom, His Royal Majesty, Marcus Kokko Yake, described the campaign as a landmark initiative for public health and community development.
“I charge all my district heads that when they return to their areas, they will ensure, supervise, and do whatever is possible within their districts to make sure there is compliance,” Yake said.
He stressed that launching the campaign was only the first step and that sustainability must remain a priority.
Speaking at the campaign launch, WaterAid Team Lead Mashat Mallo, represented by Alex Kassim, described the initiative as timely and commendable.
“This campaign demonstrates a strong commitment to improving public health, sanitation, and hygiene practices within our communities,” Mallo said.
Mallo said open defecation and cholera remain major public health challenges affecting the well-being, dignity, and economic productivity of residents, particularly women and girls.
