By: Theresa Donatus, Uyo.
In a groundbreaking effort to enhance water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services at the grassroots level, the Akwa Ibom State Government has launched its first-ever WASH capacity-building workshop for officials across all 31 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
The two-day event, held at the Amunice Event Centre in Uyo, was themed “WASH Sector: Strengthening the LGAs Towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” It is part of the state’s broader strategy to meet SDG 6, which calls for universal access to clean water and adequate sanitation by 2030.
Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr. Ubuo E. Ubuo, described the workshop as a critical step toward decentralizing WASH services and building capacity at the local level.
“This administration under His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, is determined to ensure safe water and proper hygiene for all citizens, WASH must go beyond infrastructure to include inclusive governance and community ownership.” Dr. Ubuo said.
He also highlighted the state’s progress, including the ratification of key policies such as the Akwa Ibom WASH Policy, Monitoring and Evaluation Framework, and a roadmap to eliminate open defecation by 2030.
Head of the State Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, who delivered the keynote, stressed the need for empowered LGAs and community-driven action.
“WASH governance must be participatory and accountable. We need to equip local governments with the tools, training, and authority to lead effectively,” he stated.
Strategic focus areas discussed during the workshop include: Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS), Public-private partnerships for improved service delivery, Strengthened monitoring systems and Inclusive planning for vulnerable groups
The training has drawn participation from local officials, civil society groups, and development partners. Delegates are working to co-create a State Action Plan for WASH revitalization.
Speaking on behalf of the local councils, Ikono LGA Chairman, Hon. Engr. Oto-Obong Okon Essien, recounted challenges in water infrastructure and praised state efforts to mobilize grassroots solutions.
“Our communities still face challenges like vandalized water projects and lack of toilets. We’ve set up village taskforces to protect facilities, and I encourage other LGAs to do the same,” she said.
The Acting General Manager of AKRUWATSAN noted that while progress has been made in triggering communities for open defecation-free (ODF) status, many have relapsed.
“We are committed to restoring and sustaining ODF status in all 148 communities of Ikono,” he assured.
The workshop concluded with breakout technical sessions and resolutions aimed at guiding future WASH interventions across the state.