•A Bold Step Towards Ending Open Defecation, Says Hon Minister

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved the payment of N200m counterpart fund for the P-WASH (Partnership for Expanded Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene) program for 2023, according to a statement by the Kwara State Ministry of Water Resources.

The statement said the step underscored the unwavering commitment of the administration to providing potable water and sanitation, and a vital step in the campaign against open defecation in the state.

"Today, 26th October 2023, the Kwara State Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon Usman Yunusa-Lade, alongside the Kwara State General Manager of Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Mr. Olorunfemi Oladipo, on behalf of the State Government, officially presented this pledge to the Minister for Water Resources and Sanitation at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation Office in Abuja," the statement said.

"This commitment symbolizes the Governor's dedication to enhancing the lives of the people of Kwara State through improved access to clean water and proper sanitation."

The statement quoted the General Manager of RUWASSA as saying that the partnership signifies the determination of Kwara State to create a healthier and more sustainable future, ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all, while also thanking the Governor for his commitment to addressing the issue of open defecation.

The statement quoted the Minister for State Water Resources and Sanitation, Hon Bello Goronyi, as extending sincere commendations to the Governor for his bold and unwavering support for this critical cause.

"The Minister also assured Kwara State of the federal government's continued collaboration and assistance in achieving our shared goals," the statement added.

Also, present at the meeting were the directors of Water Supply and Support Services, Dr. N D Madu and Engr Ademoroti; the National Coordinator of PEWASH, Hajia Jumai Wakaso; Kwara State FMWR PEWASH Supervisor, Iwejuo Prisca; Saleh Waziri, member PEWASH coordinating team FMWR; and Yahaya Mumeen KWRUWASSA state programme officer.