NATIONAL OPEN DEFECATION FREE (ODF) CERTIFICATION PROTOCOL
Act · Water
A Protocol sets standards and verification processes for certifying communities as Open Defecation Free in Nigeria. It targets rural communities, state water agencies, and local government officers. This aims to end open defecation by rewarding sustainable practices.
NATIONAL OPEN DEFECATION FREE (ODF) CERTIFICATION PROTOCOL
What Is This Policy?
A protocol establishing the standards, verification processes, and certification criteria for declaring communities, local government areas, and states Open Defecation Free (ODF) in Nigeria.
Who Does It Target?
Rural communities aiming for ODF status State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agencies (RUWASSAs) Local government WASH officers Federal Ministry of Water Resources
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
End open defecation in Nigeria by providing a clear, credible certification framework that rewards communities achieving and sustaining ODF status.
Key Features
Certification Criteria: Defines the specific conditions a community must meet for ODF certification including zero visible faeces. Verification Process: Prescribes the steps for independent verification of ODF status before certification. Sustainability: Addresses how communities maintain ODF status after certification. Scaling: Provides pathway from community to LGA to state ODF certification.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active — many states pursuing ODF certification Coverage: Rural communities nationwide Beneficiaries: Rural households; child health; dignity Funding: Federal Government; World Bank WASH programme; donors
How to Access
Communities: mobilise for CLTS (Community-Led Total Sanitation) to achieve ODF LGA WASH officers: coordinate ODF verification and certification Access technical support through state RUWASSAs Application method: Engage your state RUWASSA or local government WASH office.
Important Terms
Open defecation is a leading cause of diarrhoeal disease and child stunting ODF status can be lost if communities revert — sustainability support is essential Nigeria has committed to national ODF status as part of SDG 6 targets
Impact & Metrics
Hundreds of communities and several LGAs across Nigeria have achieved certified ODF status, dramatically reducing open defecation.
Official Resources
Website: https://www.waterresources.gov.ng Contact: Federal Ministry of Water Resources / RUWASSAs
Legal Framework
Operates under the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Policy, the National Environmental Sanitation Policy, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency Act 2007, and the Universal Basic Education Act (for school WASH). Draws on WHO/UNICEF guidelines on open defecation free communities and the Sustainable Development Goal 6 targets.