By George George Idowu
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has reiterated the Federal Government’s (FG) commitment to partnering with UNESCO in addressing flooding, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) challenges in the country.
This assurance came during a courtesy visit to the Minister by UNESCO’s Representative to Nigeria, Mr. Abdourahammanne Diallo, and members of UNESCO entities in Abuja on Thursday.
Utsev urged UNESCO to join forces with Nigeria in flood management, stressing its adverse impact on both people and the economy.
He highlighted UNESCO’s crucial role in addressing various water-related aspects such as flood management, water supply, water quality, irrigation, and hydrology.
Emphasizing the urgency of collaboration, the Minister highlighted the need for enhanced groundwater management, particularly in line with the ongoing Clean Nigeria Campaign aimed at achieving open defecation-free status by 2025.
He expressed the Ministry’s readiness to work with UNESCO to promote the campaign, construct more toilets, and raise awareness among the populace.
Utsev underscored the importance of water conservation and called for increased cooperation between the Ministry and UNESCO in preparation for World Water Day on March 22.
On the part of Mr. Diallo, he acknowledged Nigeria’s progress within UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Programmes and assured continued support to help the Ministry fulfill its mandate in alignment with the national agenda.