From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation said it has achieved significant milestones in dam management, irrigation, food security, and the provision of potable water for Nigerians.
The Minister, Professor Joseph Utsev, stated this during the 8th edition of the Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing at the National Press Centre in Abuja.
Professor Utsev, explained that priority has been placed on dam safety and development, noting that three dams have been completed to provide additional power supply, facilitate the movement of agricultural goods, and promote the development of cottage industries in the affected areas.
In the area of irrigation, the Minister stated that four irrigation projects have been completed in Zamfara, Gombe, Oyo, and Jigawa States to ensure year-round farming.
According to the Minister, some Nigerians have heaved a sigh of relief following the completion of water projects in Jigawa, Yobe, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Professor Utsev also highlighted the ministry’s remarkable progress in sanitation, with an additional 40 local government areas attaining Open Defecation Free ODF status, bringing the total to 142.
The Minister added that several other life-impacting projects are underway, including 14 dams, five irrigation projects, the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria SPIN Project, and the revitalization of the River Basin Development Authorities.
The mandate of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation is to address all water-related challenges and enhance the provision of sustainable water supply, sanitation, and hygiene WASH services, develop irrigation infrastructure, implement flood control measures, and manage water resources in line with Nigeria’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.