The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has commissioned solar-powered boreholes and toilet facilities at Egbeda, Ona Ara, and Ibarapa East local Government areas of Oyo State.
Speaking during the commissioning of the projects, the Chairman, Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, said the project is aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene. He added that it help to advance the health and socio-economic well-being of rural dwellers.
Afobaje also stated that his agency and UNICEF are committed to expanding access to clean water and improving sanitation infrastructure in rural and outskirt communities.
He further noted that the facilities constructed under a joint initiative by the Oyo State government and UNICEF, were directed at delivering sustainable and inclusive water and sanitation services.
The Chairman however, emphasised that the inauguration of the projects is just one milestone in an ongoing effort to expand water and sanitation services across all 33 local government areas of the state.
He said, “This symbolic commissioning represents our government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every citizen of Oyo State, regardless of location, has access to basic services like clean water and proper sanitation. These solar-powered boreholes and toilets are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and community-focused. We are not only solving today’s problems but building a healthier future.”
Also speaking, the General Manager, Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, Mr. Adeniyi Adeduntan, said the projects undertaken by OYORUWASSA and UNICEF are designed to directly address the pressing needs of rural communities and improve public health outcomes
He also noted the event marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts to improve access to clean water and sanitation across Oyo State.
Quoting Adetuntan, “The solar-powered boreholes will provide reliable and sustainable access to safe drinking water, while the toilet facilities are part of our broader campaign to promote hygiene and end open defecation.
“Today’s commissioning is not just a celebration of infrastructure but a reaffirmation of our commitment to equity, dignity, and sustainable development for all. Let us continue to work hand in hand to ensure that the gains made here are preserved, maintained, and scaled across other communities in the state. Thank you all for being a part of this transformative journey
In appreciation, the UNICEF consultant, Mr. Orimoloye Emmanuel, commended the agency’s ongoing efforts and collaboration with international partners, especially in enhancing access to safe water and promoting hygiene behaviour change at the grassroots level.
“The achievements we are witnessing today are a result of strong partnerships, dedicated leadership, and community involvement,” the consultant stated, adding that “Oyo State is steadily becoming a model for integrated WASH interventions in Nigeria,” Orimoloyo said.
He emphasised the need for sustained political will and community ownership to maintain and scale the gains made.
He further urged local governments, traditional leaders, and civil society to prioritise long-term investments in WASH infrastructure and monitoring systems.
“He added, “To ensure lasting impact, we must go beyond installations; we must foster a culture of maintenance, education, and inclusivity.”
Community leaders, traditional rulers, and local government officials in attendance at the events expressed appreciation to the Oyo State government, OYORUWASSA, and UNICEF for the intervention, emphasizing that the facilities would significantly reduce the burden of water scarcity and improve hygiene standards, particularly for women and children who are most affected by inadequate infrastructure.