By Abdullahi Lukman
Experts have raised concerns over worsening water quality in Nigeria cities, citing rapid urbanisation, pollution and climate-related factors as major threats to safe water access.
At the 2026 Annual Water Quality Conference in Abuja, stakeholders warned that issues such as flooding, drought and environmental degradation are increasingly affecting both surface and groundwater
systems across the country.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, said the challenges require integrated and climate-resilient management of water resources to safeguard both quality and availability.
He described the conference as an important platform for dialogue and collaboration, stressing the need for science-driven solutions and stronger partnerships among stakeholders.
Also speaking, Victoria Uwadoka reaffirmed Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable water management and collective action.
She highlighted the launch of the National Water Quality Handbook, developed with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and OPS-WASH, as a step toward improving standards and promoting best practices.
The conference, held in Abuja, brought together partners including UNICEF, WaterAid, Society for Family Health, and SURWASH to address key issues such as access to clean water, climate impacts, and strategies for reducing contamination risks.
Participants also explored approaches like the “One Health” framework to strengthen resilience and improve water safety amid growing environmental pressures.
