AGS NEWS – The Federal Government highlighted the ongoing issue of unsafe water usage across Nigeria, revealing that about 25% of the population still relies on hazardous water sources.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, addressed this concern during a press briefing in Abuja for World Water Day.

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He emphasized the health and environmental risks associated with using unsafe water and inadequate sanitation facilities.

Utsev outlined government initiatives aimed at addressing the water crisis, including the Partnership for Expanded Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene program, as well as the Sustainable Urban, Rural, and Small Towns Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene program.

He mentioned the National WASH Action Plan to improve access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services nationwide. Utsev expressed the government’s commitment to resolving the crisis and urged collaboration with development partners and donors.

He also highlighted progress made in achieving Open Defecation-Free status in certain areas.

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Meanwhile, a UNESCO report for World Water Day revealed global challenges in access to safe drinking water and sanitation, stressing the potential for water scarcity to escalate conflicts.

The report estimated significant costs for achieving universal access to safe water and sanitation, underlining the importance of sustainable water management for peace and development.