The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has called for collective action to protect Nigeria’s water bodies from pollution and flooding.
Utsev made the call during the 2024 World Rivers Day celebration in Abuja, themed “Protect Our Rivers from Pollution.”
He emphasized the crucial role rivers play in the water cycle, economy, ecosystem, and sustainable development.
“Our rivers are lifelines for communities, ecosystems, and economies across Nigeria. It’s our collective responsibility to prevent pollution, flooding, and other threats,” Utsev said.
Utsev also acknowledged the devastating floods in Borno State on September 10, 2024, which claimed lives and destroyed properties.
He stressed flood preparedness, particularly in states along the Benue River, and urged stakeholders to view rivers as “living entities” deserving legal rights and protections.
Dr. Bello Goronyo, Utsev’s state counterpart, highlighted the importance of protecting rivers and dams for national development.
Representatives from water resource agencies delivered goodwill messages, emphasizing collective action and regular monitoring.
The event featured symbolic tree planting and river clearing at Jabi Lake, FCT, Abuja.
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