World Toilet Day: tNJF Calls for United Action to End Open Defecation in Nigeria

As the world marks the annual World Toilet Day, The Nation Journalism Foundation (tNJF), a non-profit organization committed to media advocacy and social change, has renewed its call for collective efforts to eradicate open defecation in Nigeria.
In a statement released by its Programme Officer, Ademola Oyeledun, tNJF announced plans to publish an exposé that sheds light on the alarming prevalence of open defecation in Nigerian communities. The report, based on extensive fieldwork and research, seeks to uncover the root causes of the issue, its public health consequences, and the urgency for coordinated interventions.
“Through in-depth interviews, data analysis, and on-the-ground reporting, our team of journalists exposes the factors driving open defecation and its devastating impact on public health,” Oyeledun stated. “The findings of this report are a rallying cry for policymakers, stakeholders, and individuals to take decisive action against this critical issue.”
Open defecation remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with severe implications for public health, the environment, and human dignity. Despite numerous interventions by governmental and non-governmental organizations, the practice continues to thrive in many communities.
The health risks associated with open defecation are staggering. According to Oyeledun, diarrhoea is the second leading cause of death among children under five in Nigeria, with 88% of cases linked to poor sanitation and hygiene. A World Bank report from 2012 revealed that approximately 121,800 Nigerians, including 87,000 children under five, die annually from diarrhoea, with nearly 90% of these deaths directly attributed to inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene practices.
“Open defecation contaminates water sources, spreads diseases, and diminishes human dignity. It is a preventable crisis that we can no longer ignore,” Oyeledun emphasized.
The Nation Journalism Foundation is leveraging the power of storytelling to drive awareness and inspire action. The upcoming exposé delves into the cultural, social, and infrastructural barriers that perpetuate open defecation while highlighting stories of communities and individuals working to overcome these challenges.
“Stories have the power to inspire change. Our report will not only highlight the dire consequences of open defecation but also showcase potential solutions and the resilience of affected communities,” Oyeledun said.
tNJF is urging Nigerians to join the fight against open defecation by spreading awareness about its dangers, advocating for behavioural changes, and practicing proper hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water.
“Ending open defecation is not just about building toilets; it’s about fostering a cultural shift and ensuring access to basic sanitation for all,” Oyeledun noted.
He also called on the government, private sector, and development partners to prioritize investment in sanitation infrastructure, public health education, and sustainable water management systems.
“By working together, we can create a healthier, more dignified future for everyone,” he concluded.
World Toilet Day, observed annually on November 19, aims to raise awareness about the global sanitation crisis and advocate for access to safe sanitation for all. This year’s theme emphasizes the intersection of sanitation, public health, and environmental sustainability, underscoring the need for urgent action.
As Nigeria continues its journey toward achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6, which includes ensuring clean water and sanitation for all, initiatives like tNJF’s exposé serve as a critical reminder of the work that remains. Through collective action and sustained advocacy, the vision of a Nigeria free from open defecation can become a reality.