The Federal Government has pledged to improve access to clean water and sanitation across the country, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring Nigerians have access to basic amenities.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, made the pledge on Saturday while inaugurating a solar-powered borehole at the National Youth Service Corps orientation camp in Kubwa, Abuja.
The project was carried out to mark the 2025 World Water Day, themed Glacier Preservation.
World Water Day, observed annually on March 22, raises awareness about access to safe water and the need for sustainable water management.
Utsev said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises infrastructure development, job creation, and economic growth.
He stated, “We are here to fulfill the mandate given to us by President Bola Tinubu in his Renewed Hope Agenda—providing basic amenities for Nigerians, creating jobs, boosting the economy, and enhancing food production.
“As part of our activities for World Water Day, we are providing water facilities in key areas, including the NYSC camp, where our youths undertake their mandatory service to the nation. Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation is our duty as a ministry.”
The minister noted that inadequate water supply remains a major challenge in NYSC camps, affecting sanitation, hygiene, and the overall well-being of Corps members.
Recognising the need for sustainable water solutions, he said the ministry embarked on the borehole project to alleviate water shortages in the Kubwa camp.
“I am confident that this facility will not only improve access to clean water in the NYSC camp but also promote better sanitation and hygiene practices. This aligns with the objectives of the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign, which cannot be achieved without access to safe and clean water,” Utsev said.
While acknowledging that Nigeria does not have glaciers, the minister stressed that melting glaciers worldwide have significant consequences, including rising sea levels, extreme weather conditions, and disruptions to the water cycle, all of which affect Nigeria.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to climate resilience and sustainable water management, urging Nigerians to use water resources responsibly.
“I encourage all Nigerians to join in advocating for sustainable water management and climate resilience,” he added.
Speaking at the event, NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, described the project as a demonstration of the Ministry’s commitment to improving access to clean water and sanitation.
Represented by the Deputy Director, Policy and Plans, NYSC, Ahmed Abdullahi, Nafiu said the camp had struggled with inadequate water supply, affecting Corps members and camp officials.
“The importance of water in sustaining life and facilitating daily activities cannot be overstated.
With this intervention, we are witnessing a significant step forward in addressing this critical need. Access to clean water is not just a basic necessity; it is essential for health, productivity, and sustainable development,” he said.
Nafiu noted that the initiative highlights the power of collaboration between government agencies in tackling national development challenges.
“Beyond its immediate impact on this camp, this project symbolises what can be achieved through partnerships. As a scheme, we will continue to work with the government and its agencies to drive national development,” he added.
He urged Corps members and camp officials to take ownership of the facility by ensuring its proper use and maintenance.