The Oyo State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have commissioned new solar-powered boreholes and toilet facilities across Egbeda, Ona Ara, and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas to enhance water access and sanitation in rural communities.
The joint initiative delivered ten solar-powered boreholes and eleven toilet facilities designed to serve thousands of residents while promoting sustainable development in underserved areas.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Chairman of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, stated the projects’ significance for rural health and socioeconomic development.
“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,” Afobaje said. “These solar-powered boreholes and toilets are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and community-focused.”
The facilities are part of a broader state-wide expansion plan targeting all 33 local government areas in Oyo State. The solar-powered boreholes provide safe drinking water, while the gender-sensitive toilet facilities promote hygiene and dignity in beneficiary communities.
General Manager of OYORUWASSA, Mr. Adeniyi Adeduntan, described the commissioning as a milestone in improving public health outcomes across rural Oyo State. He noted that the toilet facilities support the agency’s campaign to promote hygiene and eliminate 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,” Adeduntan said.
UNICEF Consultant Mr. Orimoloye Emmanuel praised the collaboration between the state government and international partners, calling Oyo State “a model for integrated WASH interventions in Nigeria.”
Emmanuel emphasised the importance of sustained political will and community ownership for long-term success. “To ensure lasting impact, we must go beyond installations – we must foster a culture of maintenance, education, and inclusivity,” he said.
Community leaders, traditional rulers, and local government officials who attended the events expressed gratitude for the intervention, noting that the facilities would particularly benefit women and children who are most affected by inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure.
The community representatives pledged to take ownership of the facilities, ensure proper maintenance, and promote hygienic practices among residents.
Follow the AkweyaTV channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7m7dvJuyA7h5XMc22i
