The Federal Government has reaffirmed its resolve to deploy water resources as a catalyst for food production, clean energy, climate resilience and gender inclusion nationwide.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, made the declaration at the World Water Day 2026, stressing that water remains central to Nigeria’s economic growth and social stability.
He disclosed that over 1,500 Nigerians have been trained in drilling, pumping and water protection by the National Water Resources Institute to strengthen capacity in the sector.
Utsev also revealed that the Nigerian Integrated Water Resources Management Commission issued 24 water-use licences to ensure fair and efficient distribution.
In a major boost for food security, he said the 12 River Basin Development Authorities have developed over 154,000 hectares of irrigated farmland, empowering more than 1.6 million Nigerians to engage in all-season farming.The minister noted that the interventions align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Goal 6 on universal access to water and sanitation by 2030.
He identified increased funding, stronger collaboration among governments, and political will anchored on transparency and accountability as critical to unlocking the sector’s full potential.
Utsev stressed that women must be at the centre of water governance, noting that inclusive participation would improve service delivery nationwide.
“We are building a nation where water creates opportunities and sanitation is a right. Where water flows, equality flows,” he declared.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary, Emanaso Umobong, highlighted the harsh realities faced by women and girls due to poor access to water, linking it to lost education, reduced productivity and weak healthcare systems.In her presentation, UNICEF representative, Enang Moma, urged urgent action to improve water access, stressing that women and girls are most affected by shortages.
She called for full implementation of gender-sensitive water policies, increased funding, and improved data to guide solutions.
Quoting the World Water Development Report 2026, Moma noted that women remain underrepresented in water governance, limiting equitable access.
She urged stakeholders government, civil society and youth to act decisively to ensure water drives equality, health, education and national development.
Highlights of this year’s event was the sensitization campaign at the Lugbe Car wash and distribution of sanitary pads among others.
THE SUN
