As the world marks World Water Day, the federal government has called for urgent action to safeguard Nigeria’s water security, urging stakeholders to adopt sustainable conservation practices.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, who made the call at a press briefing in Abuja, stressed the need for collective efforts to ensure water security, improve local water conservation programmes, and promote water-saving habits nationwide.
This year’s World Water Day (WWD), themed: “Glacier Preservation,” sheds light on the importance of protecting glaciers, which store nearly two-thirds of the world’s freshwater. Though Nigeria has no glaciers, Utsev emphasised that their rapid melting contributes to extreme weather patterns worldwide, indirectly affecting countries like Nigeria.
“Glacier loss may seem distant from our immediate water challenges, but its impact is global. The effects of extreme weather, floods, and droughts are already being felt in Nigeria. We must act now to strengthen our water security,” he said.
Utsev highlighted key government initiatives aimed at improving water access, sanitation, and hygiene, including: Partnership for Expanded Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (PEWASH), National Action Plan for WASH, Nigeria Sustainable Urban and Rural WASH Programme.
He further stated that the country was investing in water infrastructure, modern irrigation systems, and hydrological research to ensure the efficient management of river basins and dams.
Calling for a united approach, he urged state governments to implement local conservation programs, while the private sector should invest in eco-friendly technologies. He also encouraged NGOs and research institutions to raise awareness and advocate for stronger environmental policies.
“As we commemorate World Water Day 2025, let us reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every Nigerian has access to safe and sustainable water. A water-secure Nigeria is a climate-resilient Nigeria,” Utsev said.
Also speaking at the event, UNICEF Nigeria’s Chief of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Dr. Jane Bevan, warned that climate change was already impacting Nigeria, making water conservation more critical than ever.
“Climate change is real, and it’s getting worse. We must rethink how we use water and encourage others to do the same,” she said.
The Director-General of UNESCO, Ms Audrey Azoulay highlighted that glaciers play an essential role in the global water cycle, storing nearly two-thirds of all the freshwater on Earth, they are the water towers of the world.
Azoulay who was represented by Dr Enang Momoh said that the organisation would continue to work with the government and stakeholders to implement a comprehensive programme to address the impact of climate disruption on glaciers.
