How We Cope With MDGs Challenges

Thursday, July 3, 2014

As the global community winds down the efforts towards the Millennium Development Goals, countries’ efforts are coming under scrutiny. In this interview with OLUOKUN AYORINDE, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on the Millennium Development Goals, Dr. Precious Kalamba Gbeneol, gives insight into the progress so far recorded by the country and others

The goal on water, sanitation and environment sustainability is considered as one of the most challenging, with Nigeria perceived to the lagging. How are you tackling this?

Dr. Precious Gbeneol, SSAP-MDGs:

Yes, Goal 7 is challenging but we are tackling it from all fronts and I must also say that this goal, especially the area of environmental sustainability, requires all hands on deck. For example, we have strongly advised against open defecation, which can lead to contamination of food and water, which is also a primary cause of diarrhoea – a disease like cholera – known to be a major source of infant mortality. The bid by the government to stop this habit has prompted the construction of the numerous VIP toilets across the country.

Nigerians must also imbibe the culture of protecting the environment for sustainability. With increasing global threats of climate change, drastic decline of biodiversity and the extreme vulnerability, Nigerians must challenge themselves to step up efforts to protect and preserve the eco system through usage of biodegradable and eco-friendly products as well as recycling of plastic products. We need concerted efforts towards addressing issues relating to the acceleration of biodiversity loss caused by climate change for the benefits of the society.

Source: The News Nigeria (link opens in a new window)

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Health Care
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public health