The Ambassador of Switzerland to Nigeria, Patrick Egloff, has said the future of Nigeria rests in the hands of its young people, particularly pupils in primary schools.
Egloff made the remarks during the commissioning of two eight-stall toilet blocks at LEA Nomadic Primary School in Apo Dutsen-Garki and LEA Primary School in Kabusa, Abuja.
The sanitation facilities were built by Create that Change Development Initiative (CCDI) with funding support from the Swiss governments.
Speaking at the event, Egloff praised CCDI’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s children.
“The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of its pupils.
“Providing them with a place for education and proper sanitation is vital for their development and for the community at large,”Egloff said.
He added that though the toilet project may seem small, it marks an important step in creating a conducive learning environment.
“We are honoured to partner with CCDI, who are working directly with communities,” Egloff stated.
CCDI Executive Director, Sharon Ayeni, said the goal was to ensure that pupils in both schools have access to clean, functioning toilets.
Ayeni explained that CCDI has handed over the facilities to the schools and communities, who have pledged to maintain them.
She noted that electricity and water connections were also addressed to ensure the toilets remain operational.
Head teacher of LEA Primary School Kabusa, Hajiya Bisala Rukkiyya, expressed gratitude for the project, saying it would help end open defecation among pupils.
“I’m deeply grateful. Now, our pupils have a safe and decent place to use,” Rukkiyya said.
