Jigawa Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Improve WASH Facilities in Public Schools

By Hamza Lawan Ahmad, Dutse

The Jigawa State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the provision of adequate Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in all primary and junior secondary schools across the state under the administration of Governor Malam Umar Namadi.

The Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Professor Haruna Musa, made this known during a media dialogue held in Dutse, the state capital. The event was organized by UNICEF following an assessment tour on the availability and functionality of WASH facilities in selected schools and healthcare centres across some local government areas of the state.

According to findings from the media tour, many schools lack basic WASH facilities necessary for a healthy learning environment.

Observations revealed inadequate access to potable water, absence of hand-washing points, and non-functional or poorly maintained toilet facilities. In some schools where WASH facilities were provided, neglect and poor maintenance were identified as major factors leading to their deterioration.

Speaking at the dialogue, Professor Musa explained that Governor Namadi’s administration places high priority on basic education, which led to the separation of the Ministry of Basic Education from the Ministry of Higher and Medium Education to ensure operational independence and improved service delivery. He assured that the board is fully prepared to address the challenges facing the sector through strategic planning and professional expertise, noting that several inherited challenges have already been tackled.

Professor Musa also commended UNICEF for its continued support and commitment to improving education and WASH standards in Jigawa State. He further appreciated the role of media practitioners, describing them as key partners in promoting accountability and guiding government efforts toward effective service delivery.

The dialogue underscored the need for sustained investment, proper maintenance culture, and collaborative efforts to ensure safe and functional WASH facilities in schools and healthcare centres across the state.