The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has initiated a two-day Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop in Nasarawa State to develop strategies for leveraging water resources to address food security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.
Speaking at the evFG Launches Workshop on Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security on Thursday, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, emphasized the importance of water in boosting agricultural productivity and socio-economic development.
He linked the workshop to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda, which prioritizes food security and poverty eradication.
“These programs represent a paradigm shift in water resources management, aiming to optimize the utilization of our river basin systems and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector,” Prof. Utsev stated.
Permanent Secretary Richard Pheelangwah highlighted water’s critical role in combating hunger and poverty, expressing hope for global best practices and innovative solutions from the workshop.
The event featured expert presentations on irrigation, water management, and revitalizing the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector.
The keynote paper, Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security in Nigeria, was delivered by Mr. A.J. Ochigbo, a former Director of the ministry.
The workshop underscores a renewed focus on water resource optimization to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector and improve livelihoods.
