From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Terlumun Utsev said Nigeria is endowed with enough water resources to boast food production and poverty alleviation.
Professor Utsev made this known in Abuja while declaring open a two-day workshop on the national action plan for harnessing water resources for food and security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.
The Minister stressed that the federal government is committed to harnessing these great water resources potentials to promote sustainable growth of the national economy
He further called for collaboration among states and other stakeholders in the water sector for the actualazation of the share goal of the present administration
Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, said the enhancement of water resources is a global best practice to address farmers challenges and promote sustainable development.
“I am optimistic that all the presentations outlined for today’s workshop will focus on the comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities that are essential to water resources management practices,” the Permanent Secretary stressed.
“Also, the workshop is expected to provide global best practices that would address the needs of our farmers and promote sustainable development. I have no doubt that justice would be done through the presentations and deliberations, considering the caliber of people gathered at the workshop today,” Pheelangwah stated
Engr. Christy Oduh, Director of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate, on her part expressed her appreciation to the Minister, the Permanent Secretary, and participants for their commitment to safe water and sanitation.
She stressed that collaboration and dedication are essential for advancing water resources development and achieving sustainable goals in the sector.
The workshop featured presentations by water resources experts, including Engr. Benson Ajisegiri and Engr. Elijah Aderibigbe, on irrigation expansion, water resource management, and revitalizing the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. The lead paper, Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security in Nigeria, was delivered by Mr. John Ochigbo, a retired Director of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation