This article discusses Nigeria’s pressing water crisis, highlighting the challenges of inadequate infrastructure and rapid population growth leading to unsustainable water management. Despite abundant resources, millions lack access to clean water, exacerbated by unchecked borehole drilling and pollution. The government aims to implement reforms and infrastructure projects to secure sustainable water access, as strategic management is crucial amidst increasing demand.
Water is an essential resource that faces significant threats due to climate change and human activities. Its importance extends beyond human survival, impacting economic growth, food security, public health, and environmental stability, especially in Nigeria. Despite the country containing vast water resources, many Nigerians still lack access to clean and safe water due to inadequate infrastructure and regulatory weaknesses.
Nigeria possesses an estimated water capacity of 359 billion cubic metres, yet millions are deprived of clean water due to poor supply systems and rising demand. Urbanization and population growth exacerbate the situation, compelling communities to rely increasingly on alternative sources, such as boreholes. The unchecked drilling in urban areas poses severe long-term risks to water reserves.
According to a UNICEF report, 70 million Nigerians lack safe drinking water. Urban residents, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), frequently turn to private boreholes due to the unreliability of public water supplies. However, indiscriminate drilling raises concerns regarding water quality and sustainability.
Women and children face significant challenges, often walking long distances for water, while cities like Lagos, surrounded by water, still experience shortages. The Nigerian government has shared responsibility for water provision among federal, state, and local levels, aiming to improve systems through budget allocations and infrastructure projects.
The FCT Water Board is currently working on the Greater Abuja Water Project, which seeks to expand potable water services to more districts. Additionally, public-private partnerships are being explored to enhance water billing and consumption efficiency. The Office of the FCT Minister reported a notable increase in monthly revenues aimed at addressing these water access issues.
To ensure effective water management, Nigeria established the National Water Policy (NWP), which emphasizes integrated resource management and collaboration among stakeholders. However, enforcement of regulations around groundwater extraction remains lax, resulting in increased borehole drilling without oversight.
As Nigeria looks for solutions, examples from countries like Kenya emphasize the importance of regulated borehole drilling alongside investments in comprehensive water infrastructure. Reports indicate that 33 percent of Nigeria’s water sources are polluted, raising alarms about health risks.
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation’s proposal for a ₦211.79 billion budget seeks to upgrade infrastructure and sanitation programs. Given Nigeria’s expected population growth, future water policies must focus on sustainable management and equitable access to clean water.
In summary, Nigeria faces a significant water crisis exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure, unsustainable resource management, and rising demand. With millions lacking access to clean water, the government must prioritize investment in modern water infrastructure and enforce existing policies to manage groundwater extraction effectively. As the population increases, a comprehensive and sustainable approach to water management is essential to safeguarding this vital resource for future generations.
Original Source: nannews.ng
