The Create That Change Development Initiative (CCDI), a non-governmental organisation based in Abuja, in partnership with the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria, has inaugurated two newly constructed eight-stall toilet facilities for pupils in low-income public primary schools in the capital.
The project marks the first phase of CCDI’s Public School Revival Initiative (PSRI)—a flagship programme aimed at revitalising public primary education in Nigeria through critical infrastructure improvements.
The new toilet facilities were commissioned at LEA Nomadic Primary School, Apo Dutsen-Garki, and LEA Primary School, Kabusa.
During the unveiling ceremony, Sharon Ayeni, Executive Director of CCDI, expressed satisfaction with the successful completion of the intervention.
“In the LEA nomadic school, they didn’t have electricity. So, we connected them to the grid,” Ayeni said.
“At the Kabusa school, they had a borehole but no running water. We reconnected them to water supply before constructing the toilets.”
She added that CCDI has discussed maintenance strategies with the school authorities and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), who have committed to up keeping the facilities.
“We’ll be checking in regularly and offering support if needed, but the facilities have now been handed over to the schools and their communities,” Ayeni said.
Speaking at the event, Patrick Egloff, Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, commended CCDI’s dedication to improving education infrastructure.
“The future of Nigeria lies with its children. Giving them a safe and dignified learning environment is vital for their growth and the country’s development,” Egloff stated.
“We’re proud to contribute to this change—especially for young girls, who suffer the most from lack of sanitation in schools.”
Bisala Rukkiyya, head teacher at LEA Primary School, Kabusa, described the intervention as transformational.
“Before this, the toilet situation was terrible. When CCDI asked about our biggest challenge, I said: the toilet. Within a month of showing them the site, the facility was ready. I’m beyond grateful,” she said.
The commissioning ceremony at the nomadic school in Dutsen-Garki drew support from community leaders including the Chief Imam and the Hakimi, both of whom offered prayers and thanked CCDI for the intervention.
Jasper Ogbonna, a board member of CCDI, highlighted the broader impact of the sanitation project.
“This effort aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supports children’s education by reducing health risks and improving focus,” he said.
“Our grassroots efforts reflect the goals of Agenda 2030.”
Other dignitaries present at the event included Tunde Ayeni, Senior Pastor of Graceville Christian Centre; Nkechi Ilochi-Kanny, Director of Business Development and Innovation at ActionAid Nigeria (representing Country Director Andrew Mamedu).