Torkwase Nyiekaa, Abuja
Over 100 civil society organizations across Africa have lauded Professor Joseph Utsev, Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, for his transformative initiatives in the country’s water management sector, particularly his efforts to revitalize river basins and enhance irrigation systems.
In a joint press statement released by Dr. Kolawole Alabi, Executive Director of Transparency Watch Initiative (TWI), and Comrade Dangana Davies, President of Good Governance Advocates in Africa (GGAA), the groups commended Professor Utsev for his groundbreaking leadership and innovative policies aimed at ensuring sustainable water resources management across the nation.
According to the statement, Professor Utsev’s leadership has introduced forward-thinking strategies in the Ministry, particularly in sustainable river basin management and integrated water resources practices. These reforms, the groups noted, are key to revitalizing Nigeria’s ailing irrigation schemes, boosting agricultural productivity, and fostering efficient water use.
“Under Professor Utsev’s guidance, we have witnessed significant progress in the revival of irrigation systems and improved management of our river basins, all of which are vital for Nigeria’s food security and economic development,” said Dr. Alabi.
The civil society groups emphasized that the Minister’s initiatives align with global best practices, ensuring that water resources are managed more sustainably while addressing pressing challenges such as water scarcity and environmental degradation.
They further expressed optimism that his reforms would create lasting benefits for Nigeria’s agricultural and rural development sectors.
Comrade Davies added that the professor’s holistic approach to water management, which integrates irrigation, flood control, and conservation efforts, sets a new standard for governance in the sector, urging other African nations to draw lessons from Nigeria’s progress.
The civil society groups commended Professor Utsev’s proactive approach to water analysis, his commitment to addressing concerns, and his leadership in repositioning the Ministry and its agencies for productivity.
“Wish to express our profound appreciation for the innovative approaches and leadership demonstrated by Professor Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, in transforming Nigeria’s river basins,” the statement said.
Advertisement
“Professor Utsev has introduced groundbreaking initiatives in the 12 Lower Benue River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs), prioritizing sustainable management and development of river basins. He has revitalized ailing irrigation schemes through creative solutions, enhancing agricultural productivity and food security.
“A monitoring and evaluation framework has been implemented to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Integrated water resources management has been promoted, ensuring equitable allocation and efficient use of water resources. Cutting-edge technologies have been introduced for water harvesting, storage, and distribution, reducing waste and improving water supply.
“These innovations have had a profoundly positive impact on Nigeria’s river basins, including improved water security and availability for millions of people, enhanced agricultural productivity and food security, increased economic activities and job creation in rural areas, better management and conservation of water resources, and reduced conflicts over water resources.
“Under Professor Utsev’s leadership, the Ministry has made significant strides in water infrastructure development, irrigation projects, and water supply expansion, thereby enhancing the nation’s water security.
“His commitment to a water-secure Nigeria has led to the implementation of innovative technologies and sustainable practices, ensuring equal access to clean water and sanitation for all citizens.
“We commend the Minister for constructing thousands of water schemes in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas, benefiting approximately 32 million people. His efforts in the sanitation sub-sector have resulted in the construction of thousands of sanitation facilities in institutions and public places, serving 550,820 persons across 127 Local Government Areas.
“The Minister’s proactive approach to water analysis, aimed at safeguarding Nigerians and curtailing the spread of Cholera, is particularly noteworthy. Recently, the Minister’s inspection visit to the Dadin-Kowa Dam in Gombe State demonstrated his commitment to addressing concerns and ensuring the dam’s stability. “
The groups, however, urged the Minister to continue his outstanding work and encouraged other stakeholders to support his initiatives.
The statement added: “We recognize Professor Utsev’s exceptional leadership and innovative approaches, which have repositioned the Ministry and its agencies for productivity.
“His efforts have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s water security and sanitation development. We urge the Minister to continue his outstanding work and encourage other stakeholders to support his initiatives.”
To this end, thegroups called for continued support for Professor Utsev’s initiatives, stating that the success of his reforms is crucial to addressing the continent’s broader water management and food security challenges.
