Stakeholders Push for Urban Water Service Reforms in Nigeria

Stakeholders are advocating for enhanced urban water services in Nigeria, addressing significant challenges such as water scarcity, population growth, and climate change. During a two-day workshop in Abuja organized by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev noted that access to quality water services remains a major challenge despite ongoing investments and reforms.

Babarind Mukaila highlighted the need for concerted efforts in infrastructure investment and sustainable water management to achieve development goals. The workshop included representatives from various development partners, including the French Development Agency (AFD), World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), UNICEF, and others, who support urban and rural water projects across Nigeria.

Emem Bob, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Finance, discussed strategies to strengthen the water sector's financing and attract development support. Ubuo Ubuo emphasized the importance of learning from peer states to build partnerships for sustainable water service delivery.

Governor Umo Eno's administration is also expanding urban water infrastructure to serve residents effectively.