The recent UNICEF report highlighting the alarming water crisis in Nigeria is a wake-up call for the nation to take swift action. According to the report, 78 million children are at high risk of water-related crises, such as waterborne diseases, malnutrition, and poor sanitation.
UNICEF Nigeria chief of WASH, Dr. Jane Bevan, in a statement on Monday, pointed out that if we continue at the current pace, it will take 16 years to achieve access to safe water for all in Nigeria.
According to her, Nigeria cannot wait that long, and the time to act is now by investing in climate-resilient water, sanitation, and hygiene services, not only as a matter of protecting children’s health today, but also ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come,” she said.
She said in Nigeria, one-third of children do not have access to at least basic water at home, and two-thirds do not have basic sanitation services.
The report also stated that Nigeria is one of the 10 countries that carry the heaviest burden of child deaths from diseases caused by inadequate Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), such as diarrhoeal diseases.
Also Nigeria also ranks second among 63 countries globally with the highest risk of exposure to climate and environmental threats.
In the considered opinion of this newspaper, these figures are not only staggering but also highlight the urgent need to address the root causes of the water crisis in Nigeria.
Access to clean water is a basic human right, and it is unacceptable that such a large percentage of Nigeria’s population is denied this right. The impact of this crisis is particularly severe on children, who are the most vulnerable to waterborne diseases and malnutrition.
It is essential to understand that the water crisis in Nigeria is not just an environmental issue, but it is also a social and economic issue. The lack of access to clean water hinders the development of individuals and communities, perpetuating poverty, and hindering progress.
Indeed, it is clear that Nigeria’s water crisis is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. In addressing this issue, several stakeholders must be involved, including the government, private sector, civil society organisations, and individuals.
First and foremost, the government must prioritise the provision of clean water and sanitation to its citizens. This can be achieved through the development of policies that ensure the effective management of water resources, including investments in water infrastructure, and the establishment of regulatory bodies to oversee the water sector.
It is gratifying to note that the federal government has developed several initiatives to improve access to water and sanitation, including the roll out of Partnership for Expanded Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) Programme, declaration of a state of emergency and the National WASH Action Plan to revitalise the WASH sector, roll out of the ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet’ Campaign and Executive Order 09, among others.
Others include the construction of over 2,300 additional water points and 6,546 sanitation compartments and hygiene facilities across the country. But more still needs to be done.
In addition to government’s efforts, the private sector must also play a significant role in addressing the water crisis in Nigeria. There are vast opportunities for private sector investment in the water sector, including the development of water treatment plants and the provision of water distribution systems.
Furthermore, civil society organisations can work with communities to increase awareness of the importance of water and sanitation and promote responsible water use.
Individuals can also contribute to addressing the water crisis in Nigeria by taking simple steps such as conserving water and adopting good sanitation practices. For example, individuals can reduce their water usage by fixing leaky taps, taking shorter showers, and using water-efficient appliances.
Moreover, individuals can also ensure that they dispose of waste properly, as this can significantly reduce water pollution.
It is crucial that all stakeholders work together to address the water crisis in Nigeria. This is not just a Nigerian problem, but a global issue that requires a collective effort. The international community must also support Nigeria’s efforts to address this crisis, including through the provision of financial and technical assistance.
Also, there is a need to increase effective and accountable systems, coordination, and capacities to provide water and sanitation services.
There is no denying the fact that the water crisis in Nigeria is a significant challenge that requires urgent attention. The UNICEF report’s findings are a clear indication of the severity of the situation and the need for immediate action.
Consequently, the government, private sector, civil society organisations, and individuals must work together to address this issue, ensuring that all Nigerians have access to clean water and sanitation.
Government at all levels should speed up the implementation of the UN-Water SDG6 global acceleration framework.
This will not only improve the health and wellbeing of citizens but also contribute to the overall development of the nation.
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