Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government has announced plans to collaborate with the Nigerian Association of Hydrogeologists (NAH) on comprehensive groundwater mapping and data collection across the country, in a move aimed at strengthening water resource management and driving sustainable national development.
The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the President of NAH, Mrs. Fashe-Adam Francisca, and her delegation to his office in Abuja.
Utsev said the partnership would improve the regulation of water schemes implemented by individuals, communities, and all tiers of government, while ensuring sustainable groundwater development nationwide. He noted that accurate hydrogeological data is critical for planning, food security, and long-term water sustainability.
“The collaboration will enhance effective regulation and promote sustainable groundwater management, which is vital for national development,” the minister stated.
He commended the association for its longstanding contributions to groundwater exploration, protection, and advocacy, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to working with professional bodies to strengthen service delivery in the water sector.
The minister also highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the National Water Compact and environmental impact assessments for water-related projects, assuring that NAH would play a key role in their implementation.
To formalize the partnership, Utsev directed relevant directors in the Ministry to develop modalities for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will accelerate joint initiatives.
Earlier, NAH President, Mrs. Fashe-Adam Francisca, said the visit was to introduce the association’s new leadership and deepen collaboration with the Ministry. She emphasized the association’s nationwide presence and expertise in groundwater research, policy development, and advocacy.
Francisca called for technical collaboration on nationwide groundwater mapping, inclusion of certified hydrogeologists in government projects, and the minister’s participation in the association’s upcoming Annual General Meeting and International Conference.
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The meeting was attended by the Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Ali Ibrahim Dallah, alongside other technical directors of the Ministry.
Both parties expressed optimism that the collaboration would significantly boost sustainable water resource management, enhance food security, and support Nigeria’s broader development goals.
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