By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Federal government has Inaugurated a ministerial technical working committee for the development of the National water compact as part of renewed efforts to strengthen sustainable water governance and improve access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services across Nigeria.
A statement by Funmi Imuetinyan, director information and public relations, said the inauguration ceremony which was performed by the minister of water resources and sanitation Prof Joseph Utsev in Abuja, marked a significant step towards deepening integrated water resources management, enhancing multi-stakeholder collaboration, and aligning Nigeria’s water sector reforms with international best practices.
Prof. Utsev described the proposed national water compact as a strategic framework that will provide a clear roadmap for sustainable development within the nation’s water sector.
according to the minister, the initiative is expected to define practical and coordinated measures aimed at strengthening water governance, improving institutional efficiency, and expanding equitable access to water and sanitation services nationwide.
He stressed the importance of synergy among relevant ministries, departments, agencies, development partners, sub-national governments, and other critical stakeholders
in ensuring the successful development and implementation of the compact.
Chairman of the committee and director of water supply and support services in the ministry, Babarinde Segun Mukaila, noted that the compact would play a vital role in strengthening water institutions, improving climate resilience, and identifying priority interventions necessary for sustainable sectoral growth.
Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that the initiative would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s water governance architecture and accelerate progress toward achieving sustainable and inclusive water, sanitation, and hygiene services for all citizens.
