NOA MOVES TO STOP OPEN DEFECATION IN IMO

The National Orientation Agency, NOA, in collaborating with UNICEF has commenced sensitization against open defecation in 12 selected communities in Onuimo Local Government Area of Imo State.

The campaign is aimed at educating the people on the dangers posed by indiscriminate deposition of human excreta and the need to construct toilet facilities in their homes.

Imo State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Mr. Vitus Ekeocha while addressing the people said poor hygiene was responsible for some of the diseases affecting Nigerians.

The UNICEF Programme Officer, Social Mobilization and Technical Committee in Imo State Mrs. Violet Igwe said opinion moulders made up of traditional rulers are now working as volunteers to assist in checking open defecation in their communities.

She explained that the campaign was also focusing on family essential practices like hand washing, family planning, antenatal care and full immunization of children.

The traditional ruler of Umuanumeze community Eze Louis Okeke described open defecation as a threat to the well being of his people and promised to work towards ending the practice.

The programme includes technical assistance on construction of healthy and cost effective toilets to ensure that all categories of persons owned the facility in their compound.

CHINAZO ILECHUKWU