The Federal Government has deepened its collaboration with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) on water resources and sanitation management, in a renewed push to enhance food security and improve the well-being of Nigerians.
This was disclosed during a courtesy visit by an NESG delegation led by Mr. Nnana Ude to the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, in Abuja.
According to a press statement signed by Funmi Imuetinyan, Director, Information and Public Relation.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Utsev reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in advancing inclusivity, sustainable development, and food security. He noted that the administration continues to prioritise strategic partnerships with development partners, investors, and the private sector to drive economic growth and improve living standards.
According to the Minister, the Ministry’s core mandate remains the provision of safe water and improved sanitation services nationwide. He stressed that collaboration with the private sector and other stakeholders is critical to achieving these objectives.
Prof. Utsev further revealed that the Ministry is intensifying engagement with state governments and local communities to expand access to water supply and sanitation services. He highlighted the role of private sector participation in initiatives such as the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign.
He also urged investors to explore opportunities within Nigeria’s irrigation and agricultural value chain, noting that the country’s vast water and land resources position it for large-scale agricultural production capable of ensuring national food security.
Earlier, Mr. Ude underscored the longstanding partnership between NESG and the Ministry, citing joint efforts on key policy frameworks such as the CEO Water Mandate (2021/2022), Water Resources Master Plan, Catchment Management Plans, and Water and Sanitation Plans.
He emphasised the need for periodic review of existing policies to address emerging sectoral challenges, noting that the Water Resources Master Plan, developed with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), requires updating to reflect current realities.
Mr. Ude also called for enhanced collaboration in areas such as water resources management, flood control, and sustainable infrastructure development to support economic growth and environmental resilience.
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He informed the Minister of the forthcoming anniversary of NESG scheduled for October 2026 and invited the Ministry’s active participation in the event.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in advancing Nigeria’s water, sanitation, irrigation, and food security goals for the benefit of all citizens.
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