The Water Resources and Sanitation minister, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has called for protecting rivers from pollution, misuse, and extinction.
The minister made the call on Monday at an event in Abuja to mark the 2024 World Rivers Day, which will have the theme “Protect Our Rivers from Pollution.”
He emphasised the need for critical stakeholders to perceive rivers as living entities entitled to fundamental rights, legal guidance, and personal freedom, saying, “We are expected to extend and implement these rights to the well-being of the watersheds, rivers, basins, and streams.”
Prof. Utsev urged the populace, especially communities around rivers, streams, and lakes, to protect the country’s rivers from pollution, misuse, and extinction.
He noted that rivers play a significant role in the water cycle, especially in rain formation. He added that rivers enhance the economic survival of any region and serve as habitats for aquatic plants and animals.
The minister further stated that this year’s celebration is low-key, considering the recent flood that ravaged parts of the country’s forested areas on September 10, 2024.
He expressed the ministry’s solidarity with the government and people of Bono State over the unfortunate disaster that claimed lives and properties while stating that the ministry has embarked on an overall assessment of the Alau Dam to ascertain its integrity and take stringent measures to help prevent future reoccurrence.
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