Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring water and food security, with a focus on climate resilience and sustainability, as highlighted at the 31st Regular Meeting of the National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation (NCWRS) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, stressed the severe impact of climate change on water availability and agriculture. He called for stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments, along with increased policy development and investment in innovative solutions to tackle these challenges.
Professor Utsev outlined progress since the 30th Council Meeting in February 2024, citing the completion of over 40 water supply projects across rural, small-town, and urban areas. He also reported the successful implementation of 44 projects under the PEWASH programme, 45 projects under the SURWASH programme, 64 projects funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Inclusive Basic Delivery System for Development and Livelihood Empowerment Improvement Project.

Additionally, efforts to enhance water quality, sanitation, and hygiene were highlighted, including the establishment of National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Asaba and Umuahia, and the ongoing Clean Nigeria Campaign, which has validated 142 Local Government Areas (LGAs) as Open Defecation Free (ODF).
To mitigate the impact of flooding, Professor Utsev noted the ongoing nationwide dam safety assessments. He praised the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) for issuing timely flood forecasts, helping prevent damage and protect lives.
On food security, he emphasized the ministry’s role in poverty reduction through irrigation projects, including the completion of the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori Irrigation Schemes, the near completion of the Middle Rima Valley Irrigation Phase 2, and the commencement of new irrigation projects in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States
The minister also announced Nigeria’s hosting of the ICID-6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja in April 2025, underscoring the nation’s leadership in water management across Africa.
Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Bassey Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to efficient water management under the ARISE agenda, prioritizing irrigation, fisheries, livestock production, and climate resilience.
Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources, Mr. Sada Soli, emphasized the importance of this year’s NCWRS theme, “Water and Food Security: Challenges and Opportunities in the Face of Daunting Climate Change.” He stressed the need for effective partnerships, increased public awareness, and strategic investments to optimize Nigeria’s vast water resources.