The Federal Ministries of Water Resources and Sanitation and Marine and Blue Economy have pledged to synergize their efforts to enhance food production in Nigeria.
This contained in a statement signed by the Director, Information and Public Relations in the water ministry, Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, in Abuja.
The statement explains that the strategic partnership is aims at strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector and ensure sustainable food production by leveraging the country’s vast water resources.
According to the statement, both Ministers emphasize the importance of Inter-Ministerial partnerships in enhancing water resource management, marine conservation, and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s blue economy.
It highlights the significance of the partnership, coming shortly after the National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation, which underscored the critical role of both Ministries in ensuring the sustainability of Nigeria’s water bodies.
According to the statement, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Prof. Joseph Utsev emphasizes that sustainable water and sanitation services are essential for public health, food security, job creation, and economic growth.
It stresses the strategic role of various departments within the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, which oversee initiatives such as the provision of clean and reliable water supply, development and management of irrigation systems, Hydropower generation, fisheries development and Flood control.
“These efforts are crucial to ensuring food security and economic resilience” he adds.
The statement expresses appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his visionary leadership in advancing the food security agenda noting that a joint Committee will be established by both Ministries to develop a working document with a clear template to guide this collaboration for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Also in his remarks, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasizes the untapped potential of Nigeria’s water bodies for fisheries, food security, and economic growth.
“Fish production in Nigeria will enhanced by stronger collaboration between both Ministries”
According to the statement, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, emphasizes the importance of collaboration in optimizing Nigeria’s coastal and inland waters.
