Nigeria's Water Minister Urges Ecosystem Protection for Rivers

On Monday in Abuja, Prof. Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, representing the Federal Government of Nigeria, urged for integrated management of the nation's rivers, forests, wetlands, and watersheds during the commemoration of the 2026 World Rivers Day. He emphasized that sustainable water resources management necessitates coordinated efforts from governments, communities, traditional institutions, the private sector, development partners, and civil society.

The theme of the celebration, ‘No Forests, No Rivers, No Water, No Life,’ highlighted the interdependence of healthy ecosystems and sustainable water resources. Utsev identified various pressures threatening Nigeria's rivers, such as population growth, urbanization, and climate change.

He stated that sanitation is crucial for river protection and noted that 179 local government areas have been validated as Open Defecation Free under the Clean Nigeria Campaign. The minister called for responsible wastewater management and stronger collaboration among stakeholders, while also mentioning the government's plans for dam rehabilitation and construction.