The Centre for Public Advocacy on Governance (CPAG) has applauded reforms in the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, which have resulted in 136 Nigerian local government areas achieving open defecation-free status.
CPAG, in a statement on Friday, said the Ministry, under the leadership of Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, has displayed a commitment to ensuring water and food security in Nigeria.
The statement, signed by Dr. Ifure Tansi Ikpa, observed that the Ministry has made significant strides in sanitation, water supply and flood control, showcasing a strong focus on climate resilience and sustainable water management.
The statement noted that 34 additional LGAs have been declared open defecation-free, bringing the national total to 136 LGAs in 2024.
CPAG described the achievement as a testament to the Ministry’s efforts to improve sanitation across the country.
In addition to the increase in the number of LGAs that have been rid of open defecation – a major health and environmental challenge in Nigeria – over 40 water supply projects have been completed across rural, small-town and urban areas, improving access to clean water for thousands of Nigerians.
“The Ministry has also implemented 44 projects under the PEWASH programme and 45 under the SURWASH programme, demonstrating its commitment to water and sanitation development.
“Additionally, 64 projects were funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Inclusive Basic Delivery System for Development and Livelihood Empowerment Improvement Project.
“In the area of water quality, sanitation, and hygiene, the Ministry has made notable advancements. The National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Asaba and Umuahia have been completed, enhancing water quality monitoring and testing.
“The Clean Nigeria Campaign has also achieved a significant milestone, with 142 LGAs validated as Open Defecation Free (ODF). The Ministry has also made progress in flood control and dam development.
“Ongoing nationwide dam safety assessments aim to ensure the safety and integrity of Nigeria’s dams. Completed irrigation projects include the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori Irrigation Schemes, with new projects commenced in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.
“The Ministry has hosted key initiatives, including the 4th Regional Workshop on Water Users’ Associations (WUAs) in Uyo. Preparations are also underway for the ICID-6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage, scheduled for April 2025 in Abuja.
“The Federal Government, UNESCO, and other partners have pledged support for groundwater management to ensure water security. This commitment was made during a two-day validation and capacity-building workshop organized by UNESCO,” the statement added.
The Centre for Public Advocacy on Governance, in the same vein, urged the minister, Utsev, to continue the to drive progress in the water sector by collaborating with key stakeholders.