WorldStage Newsonline– The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed commitment to ensuring water and food security in the country, with a strong focus on climate resilience and sustainable water management.
Speaking at the 31st Regular Meeting of the National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation (NCWRS) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev reaffirmed the emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, “Water and Food Security: Challenges and Opportunities in the Face of Daunting Climate Change.” He highlighted the severe impact of climate change on water availability and agriculture and underscored the crucial role of both federal and state governments in managing water resources. He advocated for stronger collaboration, policy development, and investment in innovative solutions to address these challenges.
The minister outlined the progress made since the 30th Council Meeting in February 2024, including the completion of over 40 water supply projects across rural, small-town, and urban areas. Additionally, 44 projects were implemented under the PEWASH programme, 45 under the SURWASH programme, and 64 projects were funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Inclusive Basic Delivery System for Development and Livelihood Empowerment Improvement Project.
He also highlighted advancements in water quality, sanitation, and hygiene, such as the completion of National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Asaba and Umuahia, the monitoring of Nigeria’s Atlas of Rivers and Open Waterbodies, and the Clean Nigeria Campaign, which has now validated 142 Local Government Areas (LGAs) as Open Defecation Free (ODF).
In the area of flood control and dam development, Prof. Utsev reported ongoing nationwide dam safety assessments, adding that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) issued forecasts promptly before the onset of the rainy season to serve as preventive measures necessary to improve the safety of lives and property.
He also emphasized the ministry’s role in boosting food security and poverty reduction through irrigation projects, noting the completion of the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori Irrigation Schemes, the near completion of the Middle Rima Valley Irrigation Phase 2, and the commencement of new irrigation projects in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.
The minister further highlighted key initiatives, including hosting the 4th Regional Workshop on Water Users’ Associations (WUAs) in Uyo and preparations for the ICID-6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja (April 2025).
He urged state governments to intensify efforts to achieve Nigeria’s irrigation, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and climate resilience targets.
Declaring the 31st Regular Meeting of the National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation open, the Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Umo Bassey Eno, emphasized the critical link between water and food security and the need for a coordinated, sustainable approach to tackling these challenges.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the ARISE agenda, which prioritizes efficient water management for irrigation, fisheries, livestock production, and climate resilience. He highlighted efforts to strengthen the state’s water sector, including the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the implementation of policies that enhance access to clean water and sanitation.
Rt. Hon. Sada Soli, Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources, expressed his delight in representing the 10th House Committee at the 31st National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation, emphasizing the importance of the event’s theme amid growing global climate challenges. He commended the organizers for their dedication to shaping policies that enhance water resource management and ensure sustainable development. Recognizing Nigeria’s abundant water resources, he stressed the urgent need to address inefficiencies in management through effective partnerships, increased public awareness, and strategic investment in sustainable infrastructure.
In his vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, expressed deep gratitude for the successful hosting of the 31st National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation. He acknowledged the efforts of all participants, including government officials, development partners, and stakeholders, in contributing to the meaningful deliberations and progress made during the event.
