• Thursday, May 09, 2024
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NBC keys into Federal Government’s quest to end open defecation, commissions sanitary facilities

NBC reaffirms commitment to women empowerment in Nigeria

The Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd recently keyed into Federal Government efforts to end open defecation as the company with its implementing partner, the Organized Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), commissioned two state-of-the-art sanitary facilities in Lagos recently.

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The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6 places a priority on achieving clean water and sanitation for all. According to UNICEF, more than 46 million people still practise open defecation in Nigeria. Recognizing the need to address this vital requirement in the community, NBC took the initiative to provide dignified sanitary and hygiene facilities, to underserved locations across Nigeria.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Lagos, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director of Nigerian Bottling Company, Oluwasoromidayo George, emphasised the company’s commitment towards water sustainability, stewardship, and environmental hygiene.

She said “At NBC, we are deeply committed to the cause of water sustainability, stewardship, and environmental hygiene. Today, we take a significant step towards a cleaner, healthier Nigeria by donating toilets and sanitary facilities, to support the Federal Government’s mission to eradicate open defecation”.

Also speaking at the event, OPS-WASH National Coordinator, Nicholas Igwe, remarked on NBC’s efforts towards water sustainability and expressed delight in the collaboration between the organisations. He said, “We are proud to collaborate with NBC on this project, which will not only improve the quality of life for millions of Nigerians but also contribute significantly to the goal of ending open defecation. The partnership also underscores the power of private-sector engagement in addressing critical social and environmental challenges in Nigeria. Together, we are setting a strong example for corporate responsibility and sustainable development in the region.”

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The Representative of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of The Environment and Water Resources, Office of Environmental Services, Omoyeni Balogun, commended NBC on its water sanitation, hygiene, and stewardship agenda.