From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The federal government has called for improved collaboration with state government catchments to enhance visibility and development in the water sector.
Minister of water resources and sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev stated this at the inauguration of new Governing Boards and Executive Management of the Twelve (12) River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs)
Professor Utsev stressed the need for mainstreaming of Integrated River Basin Management principles and practices at the catchment levels in the RBDAs;
“Improving collaboration with your catchment State Governments to enhance visibility and project ownerships” Professor Utsev stated.
“Increase irrigated agricultural activities and enhance support to farmers, compliance with Administrative Guidelines and Procedures in Public Service;Strict adherence to Procurement Due Process and Financial Regulations”
“Implementation of the new Performance Management System (PMS); and prioritize staff capacity building and welfare”
The Minister urged the Boards and Management to collectively look inward and identify other sources of funding innovative projects aside from the traditional budget system to shore up the revenue base of your respective Authorities for sustainable operations.
“To further emphasize the need to explore alternative funding sources, the Federal Government has approved the partial commercialisation programme for the twelve (12) RBDAs to strengthen operational efficiency by leveraging on public-private sector partnerships and funding for revitalization of the country’s agricultural landscape for self-reliance and economic development.
In his welcome address,the permanent secretary, Mr Richard Pheelangwah said
the retreat is designed to stimulate responsive and collective capacities to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
He added that the retreat is conceived not merely as an orientation exercise but as a strategic platform for fostering synergy, strengthening governance, and deepening understanding regarding the mandates, responsibilities, and expectations associated with the respective appointments.
“I encourage you to take this opportunity to share insights, take steps to clear grey areas, and deliberately commit to understanding the system workings to help you discover renewed energy and strategic focus throughout your tenure. At the mainstream, we will always be available to interact and provide all the necessary support and guidance” Pheelangwah emphasized.
“Over the next two days, we shall explore some key thematic areas, including the role of good leadership and government regulations, integrated river basin management for revitalizing the sector, understanding basic procedural standards and operational guidelines that would enhance a sound administrative system” he added.
Responding on behalf of the Chairmen of River Basin development Authority, Dr. Amos Yusuf appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for counting on them to bring their expertise in moving the water sector forward.