The Lagos State Government has called for greater collective participation to enhance sanitation in schools, emphasising the need for stakeholders to work together in promoting awareness and mobilising resources.
The appeal was made at the Stakeholders Interactive Session on School Sanitation held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry Conference Centre in Ikeja.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji, highlighted the significance of good sanitation and hygiene practices as the foundation of a healthy learning environment.
He noted that schools play a critical role in shaping the lives of future leaders, making it essential to provide the right conditions that support both education and health.
“It is within the walls of our schools that the future of this nation is shaped. Thus, it is our shared duty to ensure that these young minds grow up under conditions that promote their overall well-being,” he stated.
He described this year’s theme, “Embracing Sanitation and Hygiene Behavior in Schools in Lagos State,” as timely, pointing out that schools are more than just centres of learning, but spaces where values and behaviors are developed.
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The commissioner stressed the need for coordinated efforts to establish and maintain high sanitation standards in schools, ensuring that every child, irrespective of gender or age, has access to clean and safe learning environments.
He acknowledged that while challenges existed, they were not insurmountable with the right partnerships.
“Together, we can create a school environment in Lagos that promotes good health, dignity, and equality for all children. This is our shared responsibility, and I am confident that united in purpose, we can achieve this vision for our children,” he said.
The event also featured presentations by experts, including the guest lecturer, Mr. Dare Oduniyi of Water Aid Nigeria, who spoke on the topic “Sanitation and Hygiene Best Practices in Schools.”
Oduniyi noted that optimal student performance could only be achieved in a sanitary environment that supports the physical, mental, and emotional health of the child.
