By Fatima Saka
One hundred Civil Society Groups have praised Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Professor Joseph Utsev for his innovative approaches and repositioning of agencies to enhance productivity.
Civil society groups across Africa have acknowledged the Minister’s pioneering initiatives in transforming Nigeria’s river basins.
Dr. Kolawole Alabi, the Executive Director of Transparency WASH Initiative (TWI), and Comrade Dangana Davies, the President of Good Governance Advocates in Africa (GGAA), conveyed this sentiment in a press release.
The groups highlighted that under Professor Utsev’s stewardship, the Ministry has introduced innovative strategies for the sustainable management and development of river basins, revitalizing failing irrigation schemes, and promoting integrated water resources management. “These endeavors have notably bolstered water security, agricultural productivity, and food security, benefiting millions of Nigerians.”
The groups also lauded the Minister’s proactive stance on water analysis, his dedication to addressing concerns, and his leadership in reorganizing the Ministry and its agencies for enhanced efficiency.
“We wish to express our deep appreciation for the innovative strategies and leadership exhibited by Professor Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, in the transformation of Nigeria’s river basins,” the statement read.”
According to the statement, Professor Utsev has introduced groundbreaking initiatives in the 12 Lower Benue River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs), prioritizing sustainable management and development of river basins. He has revitalized failing irrigation schemes through innovative solutions, thereby improving agricultural productivity and food security.
“A monitoring and evaluation framework has been implemented to monitor progress and identify areas for enhancement. Integrated water resources management has been promoted to ensure fair allocation and efficient utilization of water resources. State-of-the-art technologies have been introduced for water harvesting, storage, and distribution, reducing wastage and enhancing water supply.
“These innovations have had a profoundly positive impact on Nigeria’s river basins, leading to improved water security and availability for millions of people, enhanced agricultural productivity and food security, increased economic activities, and job creation in rural areas, improved water resources management and conservation, and reduced conflicts over water resources.
“Under Professor Utsev’s guidance, the Ministry has made significant advancements in water infrastructure development, irrigation projects, and water supply expansion, thus bolstering the nation’s water security.
“His commitment to ensuring a water-secure Nigeria has resulted in the implementation of innovative technologies and sustainable practices, guaranteeing equal access to clean water and sanitation for all citizens.
“We commend the Minister for constructing thousands of water schemes in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas, benefiting approximately 32 million people.
“His efforts in the sanitation sector have led to the construction of numerous sanitation facilities in institutions and public spaces, serving 550,820 individuals across 127 Local Government Areas.”
The Minister’s proactive approach to water analysis, aimed at safeguarding Nigerians and curbing the spread of Cholera, is particularly commendable. A recent inspection visit to the Dadin-Kowa Dam in Gombe State demonstrated his commitment to addressing concerns and ensuring the dam’s stability.
The groups urged the Minister to continue his exceptional work and encouraged other stakeholders to support his endeavors.
The statement concluded: “We recognize Professor Utsev’s exceptional leadership and innovative strategies, which have repositioned the Ministry and its agencies for enhanced productivity.”
“His contributions have significantly bolstered Nigeria’s water security and sanitation development. We urge the Minister to continue his exceptional work and encourage other stakeholders to endorse his initiatives.”
