By Muhammad Amaan
The Federal Government of Nigeria has partnered with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to tackle flood-related issues to enhance Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Services nationwide.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, stated this in a statement following a meeting with UNESCO Representative to Nigeria, Mr Abdourahammanne Diallo, and members of UNESCO entities in Abuja.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing flooding challenges and improving WASH services in view of their adverse impacts on both the populace and the economy.
Utsev outlined UNESCO’s pivotal role in various aspects of water management, including water supply, quality, irrigation, and hydrology, while appealing for assistance in strengthening flood management efforts.
The minister underscored the urgency of intensified collaboration between his ministry and UNESCO to advance groundwater management initiatives.
He explained that the ongoing Clean Nigeria Campaign, a national initiative is aimed at eradicating open defecation by 2025.
Prof. Utsev expressed the ministry’s dedication to closely collaborate with UNESCO to promote the campaign, construct additional sanitation facilities, and raise public awareness.
The minister stressed the importance of water conservation and urged increased cooperation between the two entities as World Water Day marked on March 22, approaches.
In response, Diallo acknowledged the pivotal role of WASH services in safeguarding the nation’s well-being and assured of continued support from UNESCO to assist the ministry in fulfilling its mandate in alignment with the national agenda.
