By Abdullahi Lukman
The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for stronger collaboration and increased participation of women in water governance to ensure fair access to water and sanitation across the country.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, made the appeal during a press briefing to mark World Water Day 2026, noting that inclusive decision-making is vital for sustainable development.
He said the 2026 theme, “Water and Gender: Where
Water Flows, Equality Grows,” highlights the connection between water access, sanitation, and gender equality, in line with United Nations development goals.
According to him, water scarcity and poor sanitation disproportionately affect women and girls, limiting their health, safety, and economic opportunities.
Utsev disclosed that the ministry has implemented over 6,700 water projects, providing safe drinking water to more than 32 million Nigerians, alongside rural interventions benefiting over two million people.
He added that sanitation efforts include the construction of more than 5,200 public facilities and the certification of 162 local government areas as open defecation-free.
The minister further revealed that major infrastructure projects, including irrigation schemes and dams, are boosting agriculture, energy supply, and climate resilience.
He cited developments such as the Dadin Kowa irrigation project and hydropower generation from multiple dams contributing over 100 megawatts to the national grid.
He also noted progress in water quality monitoring with new laboratories, youth training programmes in water technology, and expanded irrigable land supporting over 1.6 million farmers nationwide.
Utsev stressed that sustained investment, policy coordination, and active involvement of women in planning and decision-making are essential to improving water access and sanitation services.
Also speaking, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Emanso Umobong, represented by Adebiyi Tajudeen, said gender-responsive water systems are key to building inclusive and resilient communities.
A report presented at the event by UNESCO warned that gender inequality continues to undermine global water security, with billions lacking safe drinking water and women bearing the burden of water collection.
The event also featured awareness campaigns, distribution of sanitary materials, and recognition of schools, with Glisten International School emerging as the top winner in a hygiene competition.
NAN