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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Federal government is set to implement policies and programmes aimed at improving water supply, sanitation and hygiene services to avert pressing issues in the sector.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev stated this at a press conference to commemorate the 2024 United Nations World Water Day, WWD, in Abuja.
Prof Joseph Utsev said implementation of good policies is paramount to increased Investment in water infrastructure, impact significantly on other sectors and also improve the economy of the nation.
He explained that the Ministry has developed several initiatives in partnership with government at all levels and critical Stakeholders in the water and sanitation sector aimed at improving funding for water resources projects and programmes, increasing resource mobilization and enhancing investment in water infrastructure geared towards actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“According to the United Nations, out of every 100 persons, 25 get their water from open streams and ponds. A good percentage relieve themselves outdoors or use dirty, dangerous or broken latrines, leading to human waste flowing into nature untreated, with disastrous health and environmental consequences.
Therefore, to avert these pressing water and sanitation issues, it is paramount to implement policies and programmes aimed at improving water supply, sanitation and hygiene services. Increased Investment in water infrastructure is also of importance, as it would impact significantly on other sectors and improve the economy of the nation. ”
“The importance of water cannot be achieved without proper hygiene and sanitation practices. Likewise, the challenges related to water resources management must be addressed to ensure country wide access, adequacy and sustainability.
“We must balance all of society’s water needs while ensuring that at-risk groups such as; women, our Indigenous Peoples, Differently-Abled Persons (DAP’s) and youths are not marginalized” the Minister added.
Prof Utsev therefore reiterated the commitment of this Administration to continue collaborating with development partners and donors in engaging with a range of stakeholders and supporting government strategic approach to proper execution of water policies in the country.
Presenting the United Nations World Water Development Report to the minister,, the Representatives of the UNESCO, Abdulrahman Dialo vowed to collaborate with Nigeria on sustainable management of its water resources.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Shinkafii who was represented by the Director water planning and technical support in the Ministry, called on Nigerians to join hands together to lift the nation high by adhering to WASH rules adding that the aim was to look for how to address the challenges faced in accessing WASH facilities.
Highlight of the event was the commissioning a borehole donated by LG Electronics at Durumi-3, FCT, Abuja, presentation of awards to three schools in Abuja for their outstanding performance in creating hygiene and Sanitation competition.
