The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with UNESCO, has inaugurated the Chair in Integrated Flood Management and Water Resources to strengthen water resource management, improve food security, and promote sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative is domiciled at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, and seeks to advance research, capacity building, and innovative approaches to flood and water resource management in Nigeria.
Objectives of the UNESCO Chair and arms is to: Enhance understanding of the Niger Basin’s hydrological system.
Develop tools for flood management, including early warning systems and multi-hazard response strategies.
Equip policymakers with evidence-based knowledge for informed decision-making.
Build institutional capacity and raise public awareness through web-based platforms.
The inauguration workshop, held on December 4-5, 2024, in Abuja, brought together stakeholders and experts to discuss strategies for addressing Nigeria’s flood challenges.
The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, emphasized the critical role of the Chair in fostering knowledge and research to manage flood risks effectively.
He noted that increasing floods worldwide are driven by climate change and global warming, making it imperative for Nigeria to adopt knowledge-based solutions and evidence-driven strategies.
“This initiative serves as a collaborative platform to advance research, training, and knowledge dissemination in water and environmental sectors. It is essential for mitigating flooding challenges and ensuring sustainable water use,” Prof. Utsev stated.
Prof. Utsev highlighted the Chair’s focus on: “Developing multi-hazard flood response strategies and Enhancing understanding of Nigeria’s river basins.”
Demonstrating the impact of UNESCO’s initiatives in addressing water-related challenges, He commended UNESCO’s ongoing support in advancing water science and urged participants to contribute innovative solutions to water resource management that prioritize food security and sustainable livelihoods.
Dr. Albert Mendy, representing Mr. Abdourahamane Diallo, Head of the UNESCO Abuja Office, underscored the importance of sustainable water resource management in combating climate change and achieving development goals.
> “Water plays a pivotal role in sustainable development, justice, and food security. Managing it effectively is critical in addressing the challenges of climate change,” he stated.
Prof. Onemayin David Jimoh, Chairman of the National IHP Committee, stressed the importance of collaboration and innovation in tackling Nigeria’s water management challenges. He called for
