70% of Nigerian Children Lack Clean Water and Hygiene Facilities, Save the Children Warns
Millions of children across Nigeria are facing increased health challenges due to limited access to safe water, hygiene and sanitation facilities, Save the Children International has warned.
The organisation raised concerns that about 70 per cent of Nigerian children lack access to basic WASH services, leaving many vulnerable to preventable diseases.
Children without clean water and proper sanitation are at higher risk of illnesses such as diarrhoea, cholera and typhoid. These conditions can affect their health, school attendance and overall development.
The warning comes as Nigeria continues to record cholera cases, with reports showing that more than 90 people have died and thousands have been infected since May. The situation has reportedly affected parts of the north-east more severely.
Save the Children’s WASH Deputy Country Director, Jane Mutua, said the lack of safe water facilities is putting children in danger and increasing their exposure to disease.
Child protection experts say access to clean water and sanitation is essential for every child’s safety and wellbeing. They have called for stronger investment in WASH infrastructure, especially in communities where children remain most vulnerable.
Providing safe water, toilets and hygiene education remains a key step toward protecting children and improving public health outcomes.
