By YANGE IKYAA
The minister of water resources and sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to support the management of water resources in the country.
Prof. Utsev gave the assurance during a familiarization visit to the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC), where he was accompanied the minister of state in the ministry, Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq.
Speaking during the visit, the Executive Director of NIWRMC, Engr. Bashir Magashi , stressed the need for increased budgetary allocations to enable the commission to effectively manage water resources and enforce proper regulations.
Magashi highlighted the commission’s accomplishments, including license issuance, demand notices, and license revalidation, despite challenges posed by vested interests.
He underscored the importance of ensuring that users of raw bulk water pay the appropriate charges for commercial use to bolster revenue.
In response, Utsev pledged his commitment to water resources management and his dedication to advancing the importance of the commission’s mandate to ensure the provision of safe and sustainable water for all Nigerians.
He promised to collaborate closely with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to expedite the passage of legislation to shape the future of water management in Nigeria.
On his part, Goronyo, acknowledged NIWRMC’s commendable achievements, despite limited funding and policy issues.
He emphasized that the ministerial visit aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and sought the commission’s support and guidance in fulfilling the mandate.
