Self Help Africa, SHA, has launched its 2024 Global Handwashing Campaign, enlisting young Nigerians, particularly National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, members, to lead hand hygiene advocacy across communities nationwide.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja, SHA’s Country Director, Joy Aderele, stressed the significance of youth in championing hygiene.
“With 63% of Nigeria’s population under 25, this demographic, though vulnerable to hygiene issues, has incredible potential to drive behaviour change. Through the NYSC scheme, we’re empowering young Nigerians to promote proper hygiene practices in their communities,” she said.
Hand hygiene remains critical in Nigeria, where diseases like diarrhoea, cholera, and respiratory infections are prevalent.
Health Adviser at the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office,FCDO, Dr. Chidera Chukwu, said,
“Research shows 80% of germs are spread through unwashed hands, yet only 8% of Nigerians practice proper handwashing, despite 99% knowing when to wash their hands.
“Our campaign calls on youths, especially NYSC members, to become hygiene advocates.”
The campaign, launched digitally on Instagram with health influencer Aproko Doctor (Dr. Chinonso Egemba) and SHA’s Head of WASH Programmes, Shadrack Shaaperaga Guusu, has already reached thousands of Nigerians. Government officials also expressed support, including the Honourable Minister of State for Youth, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, and the Honourable Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Muhammad Goronyo.
“Through initiatives like SHA’s Global Handwashing Campaign, we are ensuring that Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, WASH, remains a priority,” said Olawande.
In partnership with the FCDO-supported WASH Systems for Health (WS4H) programme, the campaign will continue with on-ground activities, including a WASH Hackathon, drama competitions, and a WASH Music Festival, culminating on World Toilet Day, November 19.
Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, reinforced the importance of this campaign: “The simple act of washing hands can be the difference between life and death for millions. We’re committed to equipping young leaders to bring this message to communities across Nigeria.”
For over 25 years, SHA has advanced WASH programs in Nigeria, empowering communities to improve sanitation and hygiene, combat disease, and promote resilience. The Global Handwashing .
