Harnessing Nigeria’s Water Wealth: ACReSAL Visits Minister of Water Resources

Nigeria, a nation rich in water resources, is on the cusp of a revolution. The ACReSAL Project team, driven by a vision of a food-secure future and access to clean water, paid a courtesy visit to the Honorable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev.

Minister Utsev welcomed the team, emphasizing the ministry’s crucial role in Nigeria’s development. “Flooding and irrigation are pressing concerns. Supporting us means supporting Nigeria’s growth.” Nigeria’s abundant water resources hold immense potential for agriculture and development.

Abdulhamid Umar, National Project Coordinator for ACReSAL, briefed Minister Utsev on their progress. “We’ve crafted six strategic watershed management plans, a treasure for the nation.” The project aims to lift 3.4 million beneficiaries out of poverty by bolstering agriculture and value chains.

Key achievements include landscape investment activities restoring 77,271 hectares of degraded land in several states, and community revolving funds benefiting eight states with capacity building initiatives.

Minister Utsev assured, “Your work is crucial. Water is life. Without it, agriculture falters, and our environment suffers.” The meeting concluded with renewed determination to harness Nigeria’s water resources, ensure food security, and create a brighter future.

The ACReSAL team and the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation have embarked on a shared journey, aligned with Nigeria’s Water Resources Policy and the National Water Resources Master Plan. Their quest is to optimize water management, agriculture, and energy, positioning Nigeria for sustainable growth.