UNICEF Urges Continued Hygiene Funding to Prevent Return of Tropical Diseases in Osun
Story: Written by Peterson October 20,2025
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has emphasized the need for ongoing investment in hygiene and sanitation to stop the re-emergence of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Osun State communities.
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, made the appeal during a town hall meeting held in Faji, Odo-Otin Local Government Area, as part of the United States National Committee (US NATCOM) for UNICEF donors’ visit. The meeting was organized by the Osun State Ministry of Health in partnership with the Rural Water and Environmental Sanitation Agency (RUWESA), with UNICEF’s support.
Saeed commended Faji community for successfully halting the transmission of Onchocerciasis and Lymphatic Filariasis through improved hygiene practices and sanitation infrastructure. She described Faji’s open defecation-free status as a model for other communities.
“Faji proves that neglected tropical diseases can be prevented and treated when communities work together with their leaders and health workers. Sustained investment in hygiene—especially in toilets and handwashing facilities—is crucial to maintaining these gains,” Saeed said.
Also speaking, Michael Nyenhuis, President and CEO of UNICEF USA, said the visit allowed donors to witness firsthand how their contributions were improving lives in rural Nigerian communities.
“It’s inspiring to see community members, health workers, and leaders working hand in hand to build a healthier future,” he noted.
Odelola Ibidun, General Manager of RUWESA, attributed the success in Faji to the strong collaboration between her agency, the Ministry of Health, and traditional institutions, noting that every household in the town now has access to toilets and handwashing stations.
Abiodun Boladale, State Coordinator for NTDs, revealed that Odo-Otin Local Government had passed the Federal Ministry of Health’s transmission assessment for Lymphatic Filariasis, meaning the disease is no longer spreading locally. He added that six communities—Faji, Okuku, Asi, Asaba, Oyan, and Ilesa—had achieved open defecation-free status under the UNICEF-supported NTD-WASH integration programme.
Oba Moshood Olaleke II, the Afaaji of Faji, expressed gratitude to UNICEF, the state government, and development partners for their continuous support, saying their efforts have significantly improved health outcomes and sanitation in his community.
