Identification of Problems Associated with Open Defecation and Its Related Solutions: A Case Study of South-West Nigeria
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Abstract
Background: Open defecation, a persistent sanitation challenge in South-West Nigeria, drives health, environmental, and economic burdens. Despite interventions, structural, economic, and cultural barriers endure, necessitating evidence-based solutions to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).
Methods: This quantitative study surveyed 500 respondents across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti using stratified random sampling to balance urban (30.2%), semi-urban (36.4%), and rural (33.4%) representation. Structured questionnaires assessed prevalence, determinants, and impacts of open defecation. Factor analysis (KMO = 0.78) and regression models, adhering to STROBE guidelines, identified key predictors.
Results: Prevalence varies, with Ekiti highest (21.2% frequent) and Lagos lowest (4.3%). Key determinants include lack of toilet access (β = 0.52, p < 0.001), high construction costs (β = 0.41, p < 0.001), weak sanitation law enforcement (β = 0.47, p = 0.002), and cultural practices (β = 0.34, p = 0.012). Health impacts include cholera (19.0%), dysentery (17.2%), and diarrhoea (15.6%); economic losses involve healthcare costs (26.0%) and reduced agricultural productivity (25.8%). Most respondents (53.0%) oppose paying for public toilets, with 41.3% favouring government subsidies.
Conclusion: Open defecation’s multifaceted drivers demand integrated solutions: enhanced infrastructure, subsidies, culturally sensitive education, and robust policy enforcement. While these align with SDG 6, their success hinges on overcoming governance challenges, underscoring the need for sustained, community-driven efforts to ensure sanitation access.
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