The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting hand hygiene and achieving universal access to handwashing facilities across the country.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, stated this during a media briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2025 Global Handwashing Day, scheduled for October 15.

The briefing focused on ongoing national efforts to strengthen hygiene education and improve access to sanitation facilities.

Prof. Utsev commended the media for their consistent support in advancing the handwashing campaign nationwide.

He described Global Handwashing Day, endorsed by the United Nations, as a key platform to raise awareness about handwashing with soap as a simple, cost-effective way to prevent diseases.

He said handwashing with soap acts as an accessible “do-it-yourself vaccine” against illnesses such as diarrhoea, cholera, typhoid, and pneumonia, adding that it also improves community health and productivity.

Despite 99 per cent awareness of handwashing in Nigeria, the Minister noted that consistent practice remains low, particularly at critical times such as after using the toilet and before eating.

He underscored the need to scale up hygiene education and ensure access to soap and clean water in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 6.2.

To commemorate the 2025 Global Handwashing Day, the National Task Group on Sanitation (NTGS) and development partners have lined up a series of activities, including nationwide sensitisation, media campaigns, and a national event in Abuja on October 15.

The celebration will feature symbolic handwashing by dignitaries and public enlightenment exercises in markets, healthcare centres, parks, and communities.

Minister of Environment, Hon. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, represented by Mr. Aghogho Gbetsere, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to collaboration among stakeholders to implement Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programmes and drive behavioural change.

He urged local leaders, NGOs, and state governments to promote handwashing as a cultural habit through sustained education and advocacy.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, represented by Mr. Moses Jo Madugu, described hand hygiene as a shared responsibility crucial to public health and national development.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s leadership role in advancing hygiene advocacy and called on Nigerians to adopt regular handwashing as part of everyday life.

Mrs. Elizabeth Ugoh, represented by Mr. Habu Jamilu, commended partners and the media for their continued collaboration in promoting WASH initiatives.

The briefing was attended by directors, stakeholders, and development partners from the water resources and sanitation sectors.