The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, has warned that a decline in water availability could lead to a hunger crisis, affecting the livelihoods of many Nigerians.
Professor Utsev made this known at a news conference in commemoration of this year’s world water day in Abuja with the theme: “Glacier Preservation.”
He said that a World Bank report indicates that Nigeria loses substantial amount annually due to reduced agricultural yield linked to climate-related water shortages, which significantly affects the country’s total agricultural produce, particularly for perishable crops like fruits and vegetables.
Professor Utsev pointed out that to address water resources challenges in the country, the federal government is partnering with major water stakeholders to ensure that water resources are used judiciously and sustainably for agricultural production.
The Minister added that the ministry is improving water use efficiency in agriculture, which is essential for food security through the development and management of irrigation systems.
He also stated that modern irrigation techniques are being introduced to promote efficient water use, which are directed to mitigate the effects of climate change on agricultural productivity and ensure availability of water, where most needed.
Professor Utsev added that the Ministry has also made remarkable strides in advancing hydrological research and data collection across the country.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwah who said water is a local and global resource that requires adequate management for the development of any nation added that water plays a crucial role in the development of any nation.
“We are reminded that water is both a global and local resource that requires careful and thoughtful management. We may claim as a country that the effects of glacier loss do not directly affect us, but the larger environmental shifts that drive such changes sure do affect all nations” he added
He urged Nigerians to continue advocating for proper management and preservation of water resources for national growth, adding that the Minister, Professor Joseph Utsev is deeply committed to ensuring sustainability and efficient water management in Nigeria.
“I urge you to continue advocating for sustainable water practices and public awareness regarding the importance of preserving water resources, not just in Nigeria, but around the world. Your role in this regard can not be overemphasized. ”
On her part, the Director-General of UNESCO, Ms Audrey Azoulay, who was represented by Dr. Enang Momah said that the glacier melt threatens global water, food, and energy security.
Azoulay, who pledged to work with stakeholders and government agencies to preserve the glaciers, added that Nigeria must be interested in glaciers to ensure sustained life now and in the future.
There were goodwill messages from the World Bank, UNICEF, UNESCO, government agencies, and stakeholders, amongst others.
Highlight of this year’s celebration was the commissioning of a solar panel water tank at the National Youth Service Corps NYSC, Camp in Kubwa, Abuja.
