The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a call for innovative solutions to rejuvenate the water resources and sanitation sector, aligning it with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The appeal was made by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, during the inauguration of a three-day Top Management Retreat held in Abuja.
The retreat’s theme was “Strategic Planning for Achieving Ministerial Mandate.”
Represented by his Minister of State, Alhaji Bello Goronyo, Utsev emphasised that the retreat aimed to facilitate the exchange of experiences, best practices, and innovative ideas to fortify water governance in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s aspiration is to establish a future where every citizen enjoys access to clean water and sanitation services, ensuring a thriving environment for future generations.
Despite challenges such as population growth and climate change, the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation is committed to finding innovative solutions.
Minister Utsev stated, “Through knowledge exchange and collaboration, we can develop strategies and action plans that will lead to tangible improvements in the sector across the country.
“Let us work together to ensure that Nigerians have access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities, and sustainable irrigation practices for a healthier and more prosperous future.”
He provided insights into the ministry’s initiatives concerning improved access to clean water and sanitation, dam and irrigation projects, and climate change and flood management.
He said these efforts aligned with the eight presidential target areas and represent a significant step towards their achievement.
Minister Utsev encouraged participants to develop strategies and plans that align with the ministry’s expanded mandate and the current administration’s focus areas.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that the ministry’s policies, vision, mission, mandates, and functions are in harmony with the government’s objectives.
Dr. Didi Walson-Jack, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, highlighted the crucial role of the ministry in ensuring the sustainable management of Nigeria’s water resources and providing access to safe and clean water for all.
She urged all stakeholders to address the challenges related to water supply, irrigation, sanitation, and water-related hazards.
Walson-Jack emphasised the necessity of the retreat to reposition the ministry, especially in light of its recent redesignation.
She underscored the significance of the ministry’s vision, mission, mandate, and structure in shaping its programs and actions, contributing to overall water resources development and management.
The retreat was seen as an opportunity for dialogue and the formulation of a strategic framework in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.