By Fatima Saka
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to water and food security, with a focus on climate resilience and sustainable water management.
The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, FNSE, made this declaration at the 31st Regular Meeting of the National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation (NCWRS) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Thursday.
Delivering his keynote address on the theme “Water and Food Security: Challenges and Opportunities in the Face of Daunting Climate Change,” Prof. Utsev highlighted the severe impacts of climate change on water resources and agriculture. He underscored the need for stronger federal and state collaboration, policy innovation, and increased investment in sustainable solutions to tackle these challenges.
Progress in Water and Sanitation Initiatives
The Minister outlined key achievements since the 30th Council Meeting in February 2024, including:
Completion of over 40 water supply projects across rural, small-town, and urban areas.
Implementation of 44 projects under the PEWASH programme and 45 under the SURWASH programme.
Execution of 64 projects funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Inclusive Basic Delivery System for Development and Livelihood Empowerment Improvement Project.
Advancements in water quality, sanitation, and hygiene, including the establishment of National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Asaba and Umuahia.
The Clean Nigeria Campaign, which has now validated 142 Local Government Areas (LGAs) as Open Defecation Free (ODF).
Flood Control and Irrigation Efforts
Addressing flood management, Prof. Utsev noted ongoing dam safety assessments nationwide and emphasized the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency’s (NIHSA) early warning forecasts as crucial preventive measures.
In support of food security, he highlighted key irrigation projects, including:
Completion of the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori Irrigation Schemes.
Near completion of the Middle Rima Valley Irrigation Phase 2.
Commencement of new irrigation projects in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.
He also announced Nigeria’s hosting of 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).
Calls for Collaboration and Sustainable Policies
Declaring the 31st NCWRS meeting open, Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Umo Bassey Eno, emphasized the critical link between water and food security. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the ARISE agenda, which prioritizes:
Efficient water management for irrigation, fisheries, and livestock production.
Strengthening the state’s water sector through the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
Implementation of policies that enhance access to clean water and sanitation.
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The Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources, Rt. Hon. Sada Soli, praised the event’s relevance amid global climate challenges. He called for effective partnerships, increased public awareness, and strategic investments to improve water resource management and ensure long-term sustainability.
In his vote of thanks, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, expressed gratitude to participants, including government officials, development partners, and stakeholders, for their contributions to the event’s success.
With climate change intensifying water-related challenges, the 31st NCWRS underscored the urgent need for coordinated policies, sustainable investments, and collaborative action to secure Nigeria’s water and food future.
