Gombe: The Gombe State government has introduced a new initiative aimed at transforming faecal sludge management (FSM) to promote wealth creation and environmental sustainability. Alhaji Mohammed Fawu, Commissioner for Water, Environment and Forest Resources, announced this development during a faecal sludge management sensitisation exercise held in Kwami Village, Kwami Local Government Area.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the exercise was organised by the Gombe State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA) in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Represented by Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, Director of Water Resources in the ministry, Fawu emphasized the importance of effective FSM in areas such as sanitation, health, economy, education, gender equity, and climate resilience.
The initiative’s key strategies include the construction of sludge treatment plants, collaboration with the private sector, capacity building for sanitation workers, and ongoing community outreach. Fawu highlighted the risks associated with inadequate faecal waste management, including environmental pollution, groundwater contamination, and health hazards, which often result from the improper use of pit latrines and septic tanks.
Fawu stated that the state government views these challenges as opportunities to convert sludge into wealth. “We are exploring innovative approaches to turn waste into wealth. Treated faecal sludge, when properly managed, could be converted into energy, bio-fertiliser, or even water for non-potable use,” he said.
The commissioner also mentioned the establishment of a 320MW Small Hydro Power Project by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) as evidence of the state government’s dedication to sustainable, climate-smart infrastructure. He expressed appreciation for UNICEF’s support of the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programs in the state.