Oyo Govt, UNICEF commission solar-powered boreholes, toilets in three LGAs

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has commissioned solar-powered boreholes and toilet facilities in Egbeda, Ona Ara, and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas to improve sanitation and hygiene.

Chairman of the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (OYORUWASSA), Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, said the agency and UNICEF are committed to expanding access to clean water and improving sanitation in rural and peri-urban communities.

He explained that the solar-powered boreholes will provide safe drinking water to thousands of residents, while the gender-sensitive toilets are designed to promote hygiene, dignity, and public health.

General Manager of OYORUWASSA, Mr. Adeniyi Adeduntan, noted that the project marks a major milestone in efforts to improve access to clean water and end open defecation in the state.

“The solar-powered boreholes offer reliable access to safe drinking water, while the toilets are part of our broader campaign to improve hygiene and public health,” he said.

UNICEF Consultant, Mr. Orimoloye Emmanuel, also commended the collaboration, praising the joint efforts to improve water access and promote hygiene behavior at the grassroots.

Community leaders, traditional rulers, and local government officials present at the event expressed appreciation to the state government, OYORUWASSA, and UNICEF for the intervention.