Despite the implementation of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) program, students in Lagos schools continue to face significant challenges with accessing clean drinking water and functional toilets. This issue persists, particularly in Mobolaji Bank Anthony Junior High School in the Sabo, Yaba area, where inadequate sanitation facilities affect students’ daily lives.
Oreoluwa, a Junior Secondary School (JSS) student at Mobolaji Bank Anthony Junior High School, shared her experience of having to urinate on the floor due to the poor state of the school’s toilets. According to her, the cleaner forbids students from using the water closets to avoid the hassle of cleaning them. The principal and the cleaner denied these allegations when confronted, but multiple students corroborated Oreoluwa’s story, highlighting a broader issue within Lagos public schools.
Girls face additional challenges during menstruation, often waiting until they return home to change sanitary pads due to the inadequate facilities. The lack of proper menstrual hygiene management leads to discomfort and can impact their academic performance and attendance.
The situation at Mobolaji Bank Anthony Junior High School is reflective of a wider problem. A 2021 UNICEF report revealed that only 11% of schools in Nigeria have basic water supply, sanitation, and hygiene services, with just 8% of these schools providing appropriate facilities for menstrual hygiene management. This deficiency directly impacts students’ health, dignity, and learning outcomes.
A visit to the school revealed neglected washbasins, damaged toilets, and an overall lack of maintenance. Students are forced to fetch water from tanks downstairs to flush the toilets, a task that is both burdensome and unsanitary. Similar conditions were observed at Onike Girls Junior High School, where students also face difficulties accessing functional toilets and clean water.
Drinking water at Mobolaji Bank Anthony Junior High School is another major concern. Students describe the water as having a bleach-like odor, making it unappealing and potentially unsafe. While the principal insists the water is treated and safe, students often resort to bringing water from home or buying sachet water when they can afford it.
Experts emphasize the importance of regular water testing and reducing the amount of sterilizing agents used to ensure the water is both safe and palatable. The reliance on untreated or poorly treated water poses health risks and undermines students’ trust in the school’s provision of basic necessities.
Waste management is another pressing issue. Overflowing waste bins and infrequent collection by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) contribute to an unhygienic environment. Proper waste management practices, including regular collection and segregation, are essential to prevent health hazards.
The proximity of Mobolaji Bank Anthony Junior High School to Sabo Market exacerbates the sanitation issues, with odors from the market affecting the school environment. This situation underscores the need for robust WASH facilities and effective waste management to maintain a healthy learning environment.
The Lagos State Government and school management must prioritize the provision and maintenance of adequate WASH facilities. Collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Water Resources, along with increased funding and support from donor agencies, are crucial to addressing these challenges.
A culture of sanitation, along with the availability of clean water, is essential for ensuring a conducive learning environment. Advocacy and reporting, supported by organizations like the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, play a vital role in bringing these issues to light and prompting necessary action.
This report was facilitated by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) under its Collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusivity, and Accountability (CMEDIA) project.