By Anthony Ochela
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, has commended UNICEF for supporting the ninistry to achieve its mandate which aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
Utsev made the commendation yesterday when he received the new UNICEF Country Representative, Ms Wafaa Saeed, who led a delegation on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
A statement issued by the Director, Information and Public Relations of the ministry, Mrs Funmi Imuetinyan, said Professor Utsev reaffirmed the ministry’s continuous partnership with UNICEF in key priority areas, particularly in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, WASH, sector.
Utsev stated that details of the ministry’s achievements in Dams, Irrigation, Water Quality and WASH would be compiled and forwarded to the new country representative to identify further areas of collaboration.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, who echoed the minister’s remarks, assured that the ministry would provide a detailed account of its achievements to UNICEF.
Also speaking in support were the Directors of Water Quality Control and Sanitation, Mrs Elizabeth Ugoh; Irrigation and Drainage, Engr Esther Oluniyi; and Water Resources Planning and Technical Support Services, Engr Adeyinka Adenopo.
They emphasized the positive impact of UNICEF’s collaboration with the ministry in WASH initiatives, including the World Water Day celebration and called for enhanced cooperation, particularly in water quality for irrigation purposes.
Earlier, Saeed explained that her visit was primarily to understand the ministry’s vision and priorities, and to receive feedback that would help UNICEF better support it in fulfilling its mandate.
She highlighted the importance of access to safe water supply and sanitation, as well as the potential of water resources for hydropower, which not only contributes to increased government revenue in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs, but is also vital for health, education and other critical sectors.
She assured that UNICEF would continue to strengthen its collaboration with the ministry in these areas.
Other directors present at the meeting include the Directors of Special Duties, Mr Chuks Mbaike, Dams and Reservoir Operations, Mrs Stella Arachie and the Deputy Director, Water Supply and Support Services, Engr Habu Hassan.
