Water scarcity poses a significant threat to Nigeria, impacting economic growth, health, and safety. Despite its estimated 359 billion cubic meters of water capacity, millions lack access to clean water due to poor infrastructure and regulatory oversight. Efforts are underway to enhance water supply management, yet sustainable practices are crucial to avoid future crises. A combination of governmental and private initiatives is essential to ensure long-term water security.
Water, an essential resource for human survival, is increasingly threatened by climate change and human exploitation. In Nigeria and globally, water is vital for various sectors including agriculture, economic development, and public health. Despite being abundant—covering over 71 percent of the Earth’s surface—predictions by former UN Secretary-Generals warn that future conflicts may arise over water scarcity due to its crucial importance.
Nigeria boasts an estimated water capacity of 359 billion cubic meters from rivers, lakes, and aquifers. Yet, millions lack access to clean water, primarily due to inadequate infrastructure and rapid population growth. The increasing reliance on alternative water sources such as boreholes, particularly in urban areas like Abuja, illustrates the crisis, leading to fears of depletion of underground reserves.
A recent UNICEF report indicates that about 70 million Nigerians do not have access to safe drinking water. In the Federal Capital Territory, many residents resort to private boreholes amidst an unreliable public distribution network. Weak regulations permit indiscriminate drilling, raising concerns regarding sustainability and water quality.
In cities, including Lagos, despite being surrounded by water, shortages persist, contributing to the booming bottled water industry. The responsibility for providing water lies among federal, state, and local governments, as well as private entities. The FCT Water Board has initiated efforts to boost water supply through funding and projects, including a ₦9 billion allocation for 2024 aimed at addressing water supply issues.
Current projects aim to extend potable water access to various districts in Abuja. The board is also exploring public-private partnerships to improve billing and efficiency. Nevertheless, rural areas continue to struggle with water supply, highlighting the need for improved management strategies and government intervention.
The National Water Policy (NWP) aims for integrated management of water resources but faces enforcement challenges. Many estates have individual boreholes, exerting pressure on groundwater. Local residents advocate for better regulation of borehole installations due to fears of unsustainable practices.
Editions from other countries demonstrate successful strategies in managing water resources, which Nigeria could emulate. Unregulated borehole drilling has led to crises in nations like India and Kenya, prompting those countries to implement stricter guidelines.
Additionally, residents rely on rivers and rainwater, often contaminated due to pollution, which exacerbates the public health crisis with diseases such as cholera. The NWP specifies regulations for borehole drilling, yet enforcement remains lacking. The Borehole Drillers Association has raised concerns about the negative implications of unregulated practices.
Experts recommend prioritizing the development of modern water infrastructure over continued drilling. The Federal Ministry of Water Resources has proposed a budget focusing on water supply and sanitation projects, recognizing the need for long-term investment. Currently, only about 30 percent of Nigeria’s urban population receives water from public utilities, emphasizing the urgency for reform.
With projections indicating a population of 400 million by 2050, addressing water resource management will become critical. Future policies should prioritize effective management and accessibility to secure water for all citizens in the long run.
The article underscores the critical state of water resources in Nigeria, highlighting the disconnect between abundant natural water sources and inadequate access affecting millions. Despite efforts to improve infrastructure and regulatory measures, challenges persist due to population growth and environmental factors. Stakeholders emphasize the need for robust policies focusing on sustainable management practices, reinforcing the urgent requirement to address the impending water crisis in Nigeria.
Original Source: nannews.ng
