The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has stated that a more comprehensive approach is needed to prevent the spread of diseases, citing that poor environmental sanitation is responsible for a significant percentage of communicable diseases in the country.

Lawal asserted this at the briefing to commemorate the 2025 National Environmental Sanitation Day in Abuja, explaining that vector-borne diseases, such as malaria, Lassa, and dengue fevers, are exacerbated by poor environmental sanitation, which provides breeding grounds for rats and mosquitoes.

He urged proper hygiene practices, safe waste disposal, and effective management of sanitation facilities to protect public health, adding that sanitation-related diseases cause morbidity and deaths each year, among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

“A large number of children die yearly due to these, and more than 3.5 million children suffer from diarrheal diseases in Nigeria. Children under five years old are more prone to such ailments. These diseases can have significant impacts on individuals, families, and communities, productivity, medical expenses, and reduced economic opportunities,” he said.

The minister expressed delight that they are increasing awareness and understanding of the importance of sanitation and hygiene as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases, save lives and ensure effective and quality sanitation delivery services, as well as meeting SDGs 3 and 6 by 2030.

According to him, the strategic plan reaffirms the collective resolve to eliminate cholera and create a healthier, safer Nigeria.

The minister commended the states that have reinstated the monthly environmental sanitation exercise to keep our environment clean and promote public health.

“Poor sanitation can also lead to contamination of water sources, soil, and air, leading to long-term environmental degradation. You will agree with us that the issue of sanitation and hygiene in Nigeria cannot be overemphasised,” he said.

Explaining further, the minister emphasised that access to safe sanitation is a fundamental human right, essential for upholding human dignity, health, and well-being. Unfortunately, many communities still lack access to basic sanitation facilities, putting them at risk of waterborne diseases and other health hazards.

“In this regard, we call on the media to play a pivotal role in propagating sanitation and hygiene campaigns, and awareness, leveraging their platforms to drive positive behaviour change and inspire a nationwide commitment to environmental sanitation,” he added.