Professor Joseph Utsev, Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, has emphasized that true national progress is impossible unless all citizens have uninterrupted access to safe and clean water.
Utsev, who was represented by Elizabeth Ugoh, Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation at the ministry, delivered this message at the official kick-off event for the Nestlé Water Quality Advocacy Campaign held in Abuja on Wednesday. He applauded Nestlé Nigeria Plc’s dedication to water quality, describing the campaign as an important partner effort that supports the government’s vision for clean and sustainable water across the country.
“Water is the essence of life, yet safeguarding this precious resource poses ongoing challenges both in Nigeria and worldwide,” Utsev remarked.
“Unsafe water remains a major contributor to avoidable diseases—such as cholera, diarrhoea, and typhoid—which have devastating effects on public health, productivity, education, and our broader development goals.
“Our journey toward sustainable growth can never be truly complete until everyone has access to safe water. That’s why this advocacy initiative is not only timely, but has the potential to drive real transformation,” Utsev stated.
The Minister outlined a series of government initiatives designed to tackle these challenges. These include the Nigerian Roadmap for Water Quality Management, opening 12 National Water Quality Reference Laboratories, regular monitoring of rivers and open sources, restoration of freshwater ecosystems, and introducing community-driven water safety plans.
Utsev underscored the necessity of strong partnerships, stating that achieving lasting water safety calls for combined efforts from government agencies, the private sector, civil organizations, and international partners.
Victoria Uwadoka, who leads Corporate Communications and Sustainability at Nestlé Nigeria, called attention to the gravity of the situation, noting that over 113 million Nigerians lack access to safe drinking water, with close to 87,000 children under the age of five dying each year from diarrhoea linked to unsafe water and inadequate sanitation.
“Only quality water can sustain life,” Uwadoka stressed, urging all segments—government, industries, researchers, civil society, and individuals—to work as one in addressing the urgent crisis.
Olutayo Olatunji, Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages’ Business Executive Officer, explained that the advocacy campaign is focused on empowering families, schools, and communities with vital knowledge to promote safe drinking habits, while reaffirming Nestlé’s pledge to water stewardship and the use of fully recyclable packaging.
Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator for OPS-WASH, added his endorsement, describing the advocacy campaign as a landmark achievement. He called upon all Nigerians to heighten public understanding and work together to improve water quality governance across the nation.
