Field Note: Achieving State-Wide Open Defecation Free Status in Nigeria

The document discusses Jigawa State in Nigeria achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status across all 27 Local Government Areas (LGAs), a significant milestone given the state’s high poverty levels and challenging environmental conditions. The success is attributed to a comprehensive approach involving government commitment, community participation, evidence-based advocacy, results-based monitoring, and strong policies and laws. UNICEF’s support through the Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach and market-based sanitation strategies played a crucial role. The document highlights the need for a sustainability plan to maintain ODF status and improve sanitation services further. It also emphasizes the importance of sharing Jigawa’s experience to inspire similar progress in other regions. Key elements of Jigawa’s success include strong leadership, policy environment, capacity building, community monitoring, and engagement of local leaders. The document serves as a case study for eliminating open defecation and improving sanitation in challenging contexts.