FG Reaffirms Commitment to Safe Water as Utsev Opens 2026 Water Quality Conference
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable water for all Nigerians as he declared open the 2026 Annual Water Quality Conference in Abuja.
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Speaking at the opening ceremony, the minister described the conference as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among stakeholders working to safeguard Nigeria’s water resources.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Water Quality in a Changing Climate: Policies, Innovation and Practice,” comes at a critical time as climate change continues to impact water systems across the country.
Utsev highlighted growing threats such as flooding, drought, pollution, and rapid urbanisation, stressing the need for integrated and climate-resilient management of both water quantity and quality. He called for science-based approaches and stronger partnerships to address emerging challenges affecting surface and groundwater resources.
The minister disclosed that the ministry has made progress in implementing recommendations from the 2025 conference, including the rollout of climate-resilient community water safety plans in 100 communities in Bauchi State in collaboration with UNICEF. He also noted the adoption of the One Health approach to strengthen links between human, animal, and environmental health in water safety planning.
According to him, efforts are ongoing to strengthen water quality monitoring through the National Water Quality Reference Laboratory Network, with facilities across the six geopolitical zones. Plans are also underway to deploy a National Water Quality Dashboard within the WASH Information Management System to enhance transparency and data-driven decision-making.
Utsev further highlighted initiatives aimed at protecting water sources, including mitigation and contingency plans for polluted water bodies, as well as engagement with state governments to establish and strengthen regulatory agencies. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to implementing the Nigerian Roadmap for Water Quality Management nationwide.
In her welcome address, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Emanso Umobong, emphasised the urgency of addressing climate-driven challenges, describing access to safe water as both a public health priority and a fundamental human right.
Also speaking, Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation, Elizabeth Ugoh, presented updates on the implementation of outcomes from the 2025 conference, while Victoria Uwadoka reaffirmed Nestlé Nigeria Plc’s commitment to sustainable water management and collaboration.
The conference, organised with partners including SURWASH, UNICEF, WaterAid, Nestlé Nigeria, OPS-WASH, and the Society for Family Health, is addressing key issues such as access to clean water, climate impacts, and strategies for building resilience against contamination risks.
A major highlight of the opening session was the launch of the National Water Quality Handbook to support community sensitisation and promote best practices.
The conference is expected to continue until April 1, featuring a series of technical sessions and stakeholder engagements.
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Safe Water as Utsev Opens 2026 Water Quality Conference