Cleanliness, key to healthy campus—Abdulraheem
By Abubakar Abdulquadri
A Senior Lecturer at the Department of Health Promotion and Environmental Health Education, University of Ilorin, Dr Adjiat Mojisola Abdulraheem, has called on staff and students of the University to prioritise environmental cleanliness and avoid habits that promote inactivity.
Dr Abdulraheem made the call last Monday (April 20, 2026), while speaking with UNILORIN Bulletin in her office.
According to her, maintaining a clean environment is a shared responsibility. She noted that by working together and adopting proper sanitation habits, members of the University community can create a safer, healthier, and more conducive environment for all.
Dr Abdulraheem added that “cleanliness is next to godliness,” stressing that every small action counts.
She emphasised the need for individuals to keep their surroundings clean and encourage others to do the same, noting that a clean environment fosters a healthy community.
The don reiterated that environmental sanitation is not solely the responsibility of cleaners or University authorities, but a collective duty of all. She added that while the University provides facilities and services, their effectiveness depends largely on how well individuals use and maintain them.
Dr Abdulraheem further noted that students, in particular, should serve as role models within the University community, adding that by demonstrating good sanitation practices, they can positively influence their peers.
“A clean environment is more than just pleasant to see; it is essential for good health, productivity, and safety. In a large and vibrant community like the University of Ilorin, where staff and students interact daily, environmental sanitation plays a critical role in preventing diseases and promoting well-being,” she said.
While emphasising the importance of keeping surroundings clean, the don advised all that utmost priority should be given to proper waste disposal, access to clean water, and effective drainage systems. She also stressed the need to maintain tidy offices and public spaces to prevent the spread of diseases such as malaria, cholera, and typhoid fever.
Dr Abdulraheem also lamented that one of the most common challenges on campuses is improper waste disposal. She noted that throwing refuse outside designated bins or allowing waste to pile up creates an unhealthy environment, attracting flies, rodents, and other disease-carrying pests.
She, therefore, urged staff members to lead by example, noting that simple actions such as proper use of waste bins, avoiding littering, and encouraging others to adopt good sanitation practices can make a significant difference.
