The Federal Government has called for more innovative solutions that will reposition the water resources and sanitation sector in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, made this call at the opening of a three-day Top Management Retreat on Thursday in Abuja.
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The theme of the retreat is, “Strategic Planning for Achieving Ministerial Mandate.’’
Utsev, represented by his Minister of State, Alhaji Bello Goronyo, said the retreat was an opportunity to share experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions to strengthen water governance in Nigeria.
According to him, Nigeria can build a future where every citizen has access to clean water and sanitation services, and the environment thrives for generations to come.
He said Nigeria was faced with numerous challenges, from population growth to climate change and it was the ministry’s duty to rise above these challenges and find innovative solutions.
“I believe that through knowledge exchange, and collaboration, we can develop strategies and action plans that will lead to tangible improvements in the sector across the country.
“I am confident that this retreat will not only equip us to meet the challenges of our expanded mandate, but will also strengthen our resolve to create positive change in the water resources and sanitation sector.
“Therefore, let us work together to ensure that Nigerians have access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities, and sustainable irrigation practices for a healthier and more prosperous future,’’ he said.
Utsev gave an insight into activities to promote improved access to clean water and sanitation, dam and irrigation, climate change and flood management.
Earlier, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Didi Walson-Jack, said the ministry’s role in ensuring the sustainable management of the country’s water resources by providing access to safe and clean water for all was crucial.
According to her, addressing the various challenges associated with water supply, irrigation, sanitation and water related hazards should be embraced by all.
“This retreat has become necessary to restrategise and reposition the ministry to deliver on its expanded mandate following its redesignation.
“We will focus on the federal ministry of water resources and sanitation’s programmes and other key policies and mandate that shapes our work”.
