Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joesph Utsev says efficient hydrology is the bedrock of sustainable water management.
Professor Utsev made this known at the official launch of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, Hydro Club, in Government Secondary School, Kubwa, Abuja.
The minister who was represented by a deputy Director in the ministry, Abdulkadir Sodang Muhammad said
that it is time to change the narrative from wastefulness to stewardship, adding that every drop of water counts.
“I see this gathering not just as the birth of a club, but as the rise of a movement one that is rooted in the values of sustainability, resilience, and national development” he stressed.
“To manage water efficiently, we must invest in technologies and systems that enhance our ability to predict, plan, and protect. Real-time data, smart hydrological networks, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence must become part of our national water strategy” he stated.
“And this is where the Hydro Club can play a vital role by nurturing a generation of thinkers and doers who will transform hydrological knowledge into action
Water scarcity is no longer a distant concern” the Minister emphasized.
“We must change the narrative from wastefulness to stewardship. Every drop counts. Water conservation is not a responsibility for the ministry alone it is a shared duty that belongs to every citizen, every school, and every business” Professor Utsev added.
In his remarks, the Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, Umar Mohammed said the agency is committed to supporting educational system.
Mohammed who represented by his Technical Adviser, Jabo Stephen added that the Hydro Club is a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing the next generation of been environmentally conscious, and community-minded leaders.
He stressed that the platform will create an avenue for the students to discover their talents at early stages and acquire leadership skills.
“As we face global challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, environmental degradation, the role of young people in promoting sustainability has never been this important” he noted.
By choosing to be part of the NIHSA Hydro Club, you are already chosen to be part of the solution. Water is life, and yet it is often taken for granted. Through the NIHSA Hydro Club, you are learning not just about the science of water resources, but also about the responsibility that comes with knowledge, he added
In his presentation, the Save the children international Advocacy and campaign officer, Faith Osaretin commended the agency for building a platform that cretes scientific curiosity, enhancing climate literacy and prepare young people to contribute meaningfully to national environmental efforts.
“We are confident that the Hydro Club will spark a generation of young hydrologists, environmental advocates and children who will build a sustainable and disaster resilient Nigeria” Osaretin stated.
