By Abdullahi Lukman
The newly appointed Executive Director of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC), Dr. Abdulmumini Zaria, has pledged to prioritise domestic and community water supply in the country’s water allocation policy.
Speaking on Monday during his assumption of duty at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Zaria stated that ensuring access to safe water at household and community levels is essential for national health, dignity, and sustainable development.
“Water security is human security. Domestic and community needs must come before industrial and agricultural use,” he said.
Zaria outlined a three-pronged strategy focused on transparent water allocation, stronger private sector partnerships, and targeted local solutions such as small dams, rainwater harvesting, and community-led projects, especially in underserved areas.
To support this, the NIWRMC will implement a firm compliance framework involving improved licensing, regular audits of industries and irrigation schemes, and stakeholder education.
Zaria emphasized a collaborative enforcement model based on dialogue, monitoring, and innovation.
He also promised improved staff welfare, fair promotions, and an open-door policy, describing the commission’s work as vital to food security, public health, and economic resilience.
Zaria expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, whom he credited as a mentor.
Earlier, outgoing Acting Executive Director Mrs. Sakinatu Abbo-Jimeta commended the staff for their support during her tenure, highlighting achievements in regulatory enforcement and stakeholder engagement.
She described Zaria as a seasoned public servant capable of advancing the commission’s mandate.
Zaria’s personal assistant, Dr. Abdullahi Dangana, noted his people-focused leadership style and extensive background in workforce management, having retired as General Manager, Human Resources at NNPC Ltd.
His appointment comes as the National Water Resources Bill remains under consideration in the National Assembly.
Stakeholders believe the bill’s passage would strengthen NIWRMC’s role and improve equitable water access nationwide.
