More Than Half of Nigerians Rely on Unsafe Water Sources Says FG, Calls For Urgent Action on Worsening Water Crisis
By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde
The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to be mindful of the sources of their drinking water, warning that immediate action is needed to address the country’s worsening water crisis.
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News gathered that at a workshop titled "Access to Clean Water and Improved Sanitation: The Role of Regulation and Management" in Abuja, Acting Executive Director of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC), Mrs. Sakinatu Suleiman Abbo Jimeta, raised concerns over the fact that more than 57% of Nigerians depend on untreated water, exposing them to serious health risks.
It emphasized the importance of protecting water sources and improving access to clean water and sanitation.
Mrs. Jimeta explained that climate change is exacerbating the situation, putting further strain on the country’s water supply. She called for immediate measures to safeguard drinking water sources to ensure public health, economic growth, and long-term sustainability.
She stressed the critical need for stronger regulations and oversight in the water sector to ensure access to safe water and improved sanitation, which she described as a fundamental human right.
"Our commission is dedicated to addressing these issues by working with stakeholders to develop and enforce stronger regulatory frameworks to protect Nigeria's water resources," Mrs. Jimeta said. She added that as the population grows and climate change continues to intensify, the need for effective water management will become even more urgent.
The workshop brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, water service providers, environmental experts, and international partners, to explore best practices for managing the country's water resources.
OTN News further gathered that NIWRMC’s Director of Corporate Support Services, Mr. Sunday Idowu, highlighted the severe health risks posed by inadequate access to clean water and sanitation, stating that the commission is actively pursuing initiatives to enhance water safety and promote sustainable water management.
Experts at the workshop, including Michael Ale and Kazeem Kolawole Raji, emphasized the need for community involvement in water management, effective regulation, and collaboration between the Government and private sector to address the water crisis.
Both warned that without prompt action, Nigeria's water issues would worsen, threatening future access to clean water for all.
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