FG urges better protection of rivers for maximum economic benefits

The Federal Government has sought better protection of bodies of water for maximum economic benefits. Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, who made the appeal on the occasion of the 2023 Rivers Day in Abuja, observed that with the increasing negative impacts of climate change worldwide on ecosystems, it has become imperative to develop appropriate strategies for efficient management of scarce water resources.

According to him, the event is to draw attention to the world’s waterways or river courses through advocacy and sensitisation, as well as seek innovative ways of improving the quality and flow of waters. He stressed that a healthy environment is not only needed for aquatic life, but also to ensure efficient hydrologic connectivity.

The minister restated the government’s commitment to a robust campaign against negative practices that affect free flow of water. The focus of the awareness, he noted, would be on river cleanups, habitat restoration projects, tree planting and riverside celebrations.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Esther Didi Walson-Jack, stressed the need to protect rights of rivers. She lamented that rivers have been degraded, diverted and polluted at a high cost to the people and planet earth, hence the need for urgent redress. Walson-Jack said the sub-theme, “Rights of Rivers,” was apt and captured relevant declarations.