Professor Joseph Utsev, Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, has emphasized that the nation’s development cannot be fully realized until every person enjoys access to clean, safe water.
Utsev’s message, delivered by Elizabeth Ugoh, Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation, came during the unveiling of the Nestlé Water Quality Advocacy Campaign in Abuja on Wednesday. He applauded Nestlé Nigeria Plc for driving such an important campaign, noting that it complements the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure safe, sustainable water across the country.
“Access to water is essential for life, but unfortunately, ensuring its safety remains a pressing issue both in Nigeria and around the world,” he said.
“Unsafe water continues to be a major contributor to preventable illnesses such as cholera, diarrhoea, and typhoid. These health challenges undermine not just the wellbeing of our people, but also impact our nation’s productivity, education, and overall growth.
“Progress towards sustainable development goals can only be achieved when everyone has access to safe water. That’s why this advocacy campaign is so relevant and vital,” Utsev remarked.
The Minister outlined several government projects in place to tackle water quality issues. These include the Nigerian Roadmap for Water Quality Management, establishment of 12 National Water Quality Reference Laboratories, ongoing monitoring of rivers and open water sources, freshwater ecosystem restoration, and community-led water safety planning.
He pointed out that lasting solutions require strong partnerships across government, private sector, non-governmental organizations, and development partners.
Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, revealed that more than 113 million Nigerians are still without safe drinking water, and approximately 87,000 children under five die annually due to diarrhoea resulting from poor sanitation.
“Quality water means quality life,” she emphasized, calling on government, businesses, schools, civil society, and individuals to join forces in tackling this challenge.
Olutayo Olatunji, Business Executive Officer for Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages, explained that the new campaign seeks to educate families, schools, and communities, empowering them to make informed water safety choices. He also reaffirmed Nestlé’s commitment to responsible water management and increasing the use of recyclable packaging.
Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, referred to the initiative as a significant step forward and called for broader public awareness and teamwork nationwide to improve water quality systems in Nigeria.
