By Stella Odueme
The Federal Government, through the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI) in Kaduna and the Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority in Yola, both parastatals of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has inaugurated the 11th National Water Conference under the theme “Water and Society.”
The Conference, which holds from October 29 to 31, 2024, brings together Water Resource experts, Government Officials, Private Sector Stakeholders, and Civil Society Representatives to address Nigeria’s water security challenges and develop sustainable management solutions.
Opening the Conference, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Pheelagwah, delivered a keynote address highlighting the critical role of water in societal well-being and national development.
“Water is more than just a resource; it is a cornerstone of life, civilization, and progress,” emphasizing the need for robust governance, innovative solutions, and collaborative partnerships to tackle issues like rapid urbanization and climate change.
A statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations,
Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan on Tuesday said that Prof. Utsev reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to sustainable water management as essential for promoting social equity and economic growth, declaring that “every citizen has the right to clean water and sanitation.”
He called for comprehensive solutions that integrate governance, technology, and partnerships.
Prof. Emmanuel A. Adanu, Director General of NWRI, represented by Engr. A. K. Ndahi, in his welcome remarks urged participants to view the conference as a catalyst for change to create a future where water becomes a source of abundance and prosperity for Nigerians.
He advocated for practical, innovative ideas to shape a blueprint for universal access to safe drinking water and effective management of public water schemes, which he noted would boost food self-sufficiency, reduce reliance on costly food imports, and generate employment opportunities.
He also disclosed that during the three-day event, attendees will participate in discussions, panels, and workshops on key topics, including:Water for Peace: Exploring the role of water resources in fostering stability; WASH and Waste Management: Addressing challenges in sanitation and waste management; Gender and Water Management: Examining the unique impacts of water access on women and children and Climate Change and Water Security: Exploring the effects of climate change on water resources and many more.
The Opening Ceremony was attended by key dignitaries , including Hon. Sada Soli, Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources, a representative of the Lamido of Adamawa, as well as various water experts and stakeholders.
