Water crisis: FG begins nationwide consultation for sector-wide reforms

The Federal Government has begun a nationwide consultation process to create a National Water Compact, aimed at tackling Nigeria's ongoing water and sanitation issues and improving the country's water security. Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, revealed this during a stakeholders' workshop in Abuja.

The initiative aims to address problems such as rapid urbanization, population growth, climate change, environmental degradation, inadequate infrastructure, fragmented institutions, and funding shortages. These challenges have hampered Nigeria's ability to provide reliable water supply, sanitation services, and productive water use.

Water is essential for sustainable development, impacting public health, food security, economic growth, environmental sustainability, energy production, and national security. The government's efforts include enhancing coordination between federal and state governments, increasing investments in water infrastructure, and strengthening institutional arrangements.

The compact will integrate water supply, sanitation, irrigation, environmental protection, public health, and climate resilience, aligning with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

The African Union's Africa Water Vision and Policy 2025-2063 has prompted Nigeria to develop its own national compact, tailored to the country's unique needs and priorities. A National Technical Working Committee, made up of representatives from various sectors, has drafted the initial version of the compact. However, the success of the compact depends on the involvement and commitment of state governments and other stakeholders.

Utsev has written to the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum to secure the participation of the 36 state governors and the Federal Capital Territory.

The consultation aims to identify gaps in the draft compact, determine state priorities, propose strategic actions, and strengthen implementation arrangements. Participants are encouraged to offer practical recommendations to ensure the final document produces measurable improvements in Nigerians' lives.