The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) Lagos Chapter, in collaboration with WaterAid, has launched a comprehensive environmental and waterways sanitation initiative in the Aiyetoro, Makoko community of Lagos. The initiative aims to prevent potential cholera outbreaks and improve living conditions.
Mrs. Atinuke Owolabi, Chairman of the APWEN Lagos Chapter, made this announcement in a statement released to the press on Sunday in Lagos. She highlighted that the association also conducted a workshop to educate residents on measures to prevent cholera outbreaks.
“The deteriorating and hazardous living conditions in Aiyetoro, Makoko, prompted us to take action to prevent a cholera outbreak,” Owolabi stated. She emphasized that until every community is safe from cholera, no one is completely secure, as people frequently interact in various public places.
The initiative, led by the Young Engineers of APWEN Lagos, aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) VI, focusing on clean water and sanitation. Owolabi expressed concern that the community lacks potable water and toilet facilities, posing a significant health risk.
APWEN, in collaboration with WaterAid, is committed to supporting the community in any way possible. “Most organizations only provide food and clothing to this vulnerable community. As engineers, we chose to empower and educate them on cleaning their environment and waterways,” Owolabi said. The community has committed to making the area more conducive within two weeks, although they estimate needing N350,000 for major improvements.
The chairman further mentioned that APWEN would provide additional support, including helping students who dropped out of school and empowering individuals with skills to improve their living standards. Scholarships will also be offered to girls passionate about STEM, following mentorship programs.
Mrs. Owolabi called on well-meaning individuals and organizations to support APWEN’s efforts in addressing these critical environmental and health issues.
Mr. Adebayo Alao, Head of the Lagos Programme at WaterAid, emphasized the importance of good hygiene practices. He noted that this initiative marks the beginning of an ongoing sanitation campaign for the residents of Aiyetoro.
The Community Development Association (CDA) Chairman will appoint 50 residents as environmental sanitation officers. These officers will be empowered by WaterAid, in collaboration with the Yaba Local Council Development Area, to enforce proper sanitation practices within the community.
This initiative aims to not only improve the immediate health conditions in Aiyetoro but also foster a long-term culture of cleanliness and hygiene among its residents.
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