By Victor Okoye, News Agency of Nigeria, Abuja
The Model Primary School, Apo Legislative Quarters, on Thursday marked World Toilet Day with the commissioning of a renovated modern toilet facility by the Centre for School Health Education and Environmental Hygiene (CSHEEH).
Speaking at the event, CSHEEH Executive Director, Dr. Folasade Momoh, said the global theme, “Sanitation in a Changing World—We’ll Always Need Toilets,” stresses the urgency of safe sanitation.
“We live in a world where population growth and climate change are putting pressure on sanitation,” she said. “No matter how the world changes, humans will always need toilets.”
She said billions still lack safe toilets, warning that poor sanitation fuels diseases.
“Access to safe sanitation is a human right,” Momoh said. “Toilets protect communities from deadly germs and eliminate open defecation.”
Momoh said the upgrade reflects CSHEEH’s mission to improve school hygiene nationwide.
“These facilities give children dignity and safety,” she said. “We are committed to ensuring every Nigerian school has quality toilets.”
She urged pupils to maintain the facility.
“A clean toilet is not a luxury,” she added. “It is a necessity for health and well-being.”
The Headmistress, Mrs. Dupe Lawal, described the day as historic for the school.
“Our old toilets worried us for years,” she said.
“Today, Dr. Momoh has given our pupils a fortress of health and a citadel of dignity.”
She thanked the philanthropist for transforming learning conditions.
“You acted with compassion and without delay,” she said. “You have touched the lives of over 400 pupils.”
She appreciated the school’s neighbour, Dr. Babade Sentosa, for donating a water tank and alternative water source.
“You ensured our new facility will always function,” she said.
The Executive Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board (FCTUBEB), Dr Alhassan Sule, who was represented by DD (School Health), Baba Aboki at the event, praised the partnership.
“This is exactly the kind of community-driven support our schools need,” he said. “Good sanitation is foundational to quality education.”
He pledged FCTUBEB’s strengthened collaboration.
“We will continue to work with partners like CSHEEH to ensure every child learns in a safe and healthy environment,” he said.
Dr. Utane Adama of The Leprosy Mission stressed that the importance of clean toilets and health cannot be overemphasised, adding that, clean toilets are integral to health.
“They are not just facilities — they are a foundation for dignity, safety, and the prevention of disease.
“When we ensure that children have access to hygienic sanitation, we are investing in their future.
“The Leprosy Mission is happy to identify and support CSHEEH in ensuring that this project was successfully completed and handed over to the school.
“Partnerships like this show what is possible when organisations come together with a shared purpose of improving lives.
“As we commemorate World Toilet Day, I want to encourage us to continue in our commitment to creating safe and clean spaces in our environment.
“Every community deserves sanitation facilities that protect their health and uphold their dignity.”
“Our work does not end with the commissioning of these toilets. Sustainability is key. We must ensure proper maintenance, hygiene education, and continued community involvement so that these facilities serve generations to come.”
“At The Leprosy Mission, we believe every individual has the right to live in a healthy environment.
“Sanitation is not a privilege; it is a basic human right. And we will continue to support initiatives that advance this right for all.”
Ramatu Ajuji Habu, the Director, Special Duties, FCT Education Secretariat showered encomiums on Dr Momoh for her persistent efforts in health advocacy in the FCT.
“With the commitment of people like Dr. Momoh, she has truly kept us on our toes and inspired us to be intentional about ensuring clean, safe, and standard toilet facilities across all educational institutions in the FCT.
“Dr. Momoh’s persistent health advocacy has been a source of motivation for all of us within the Education Secretariat. Her dedication continues to push the boundaries of what we can achieve in promoting healthy learning environments.
“Her efforts have helped us rethink our priorities and adopt a more proactive approach toward hygiene and sanitation. We are now more deliberate in enforcing standards that safeguard the wellbeing of our students.
“However, installing the facilities is only the first step. We must remain committed to their maintenance and to continuous hygiene education. Only then will these investments have their full impact.
“We also deeply appreciate every stakeholder who has played a role in making this initiative successful. Your support demonstrates the power of partnership in building a healthier future for our children.”
Dignitaries present included the Executive Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council; the Director, Primary School Services; Director of UBEC; Director of Development Control; the Divisional Police Officer, Apo Division; Fire Service representatives; LEA Education Secretary; and members of the FCT Education Secretariat.
The Fire Service added excitement to the event with safety drills.
Officials conducted demonstrations and taught pupils fire-fighting basics.
“They must learn to protect themselves during emergencies,” one officer said.
Teachers and parents were also celebrated for their support during the renovation.
“Your patience kept us going,” the Headmistress said. “This facility is a gift of love for our pupils.”
A joint maintenance committee of staff and senior pupils was inaugurated to preserve the renovated facility.
“This project must stand the test of time,” she said.
The school appealed to authorities for more teachers, renovation of other structures, a second toilet upgrade, computers, home economics equipment and a larger water tank. (NAN)