Poor Access to Water and Sanitation Threatens Children, Communities

Access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene services, commonly known as WASH, remains a major concern for many communities across Nigeria, with children and young girls among the most affected.

Experts say inadequate access to safe water and sanitation contributes to child mortality, infections, malnutrition and poor school attendance. The situation can be particularly difficult for adolescent girls who require safe, private and hygienic sanitation facilities during puberty.

Beyond water scarcity, poor sanitation remains another serious challenge. Residents in affected communities say the lack of toilet facilities has forced some people to resort to open defecation, exposing families to environmental contamination and serious health risks.

One resident described the difficult reality of living without adequate sanitation facilities, explaining that many people are forced to go into nearby bushes, while rainfall can wash human waste into water sources used by members of the community.

Stakeholders say investment in WASH infrastructure is not only essential for public health but also strengthens economic productivity and community resilience.

They have called for stronger collaboration between governments, development partners, private organisations and local communities, stressing that government alone may not be able to address Nigeria's growing water and sanitation challenges.

Experts also emphasised the importance of accountability and community ownership, noting that communities benefiting from water and sanitation projects should play an active role in maintaining and monitoring the facilities.

Water remains central to basic hygiene practices, while inadequate sanitation facilities continue to contribute to the persistence of open defecation in several communities.

The consequences, stakeholders warn, are particularly severe for Nigerian children, who remain vulnerable to waterborne diseases and other illnesses associated with unsafe water and poor sanitation.

Despite the challenges, residents remain hopeful that improved access to clean water, functional toilets and proper hygiene facilities will transform their communities, improve health outcomes and create better opportunities for future generations.

The growing calls for action underline the need for sustained investment in WASH infrastructure as Nigeria works to protect the health, dignity and future of its citizens—especially its children.