The Federal Government has reinstated its commitment in strengthening water regulations to ensure water security for all Nigerians.
The Acting Executive Director, Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC) Mrs. Sakinatu Suleiman Abbo Jimeta made this known while delivering her opening remarks at the workshop on ‘The Regulation of Water Use Licence Terms and Conditions Act’ in Abuja.
She said in Nigeria, water use licences serve as an essential tool for regulating access to and use of water, noting that these licences set clear guidelines on water withdrawal and usage, helping to prevent over exploitation and pollution.
“It is not simply about issuing permissions, it is about ensuring that water use aligns with sustainable management practices so that our water systems can support both current needs and those of future generations,” she added.
Speaking during the workshop, Mrs Jimeta remarked that “the commitment to responsible water use is a goal that is becoming increasingly urgent as our population grows and demands on our natural resources continue to mount.”
The Acting Executive Director explained that “water is a lifeline for every sector, agriculture, industry, domestic use and energy generation all depend on this precious resource.
However, managing water resources effectively requires a framework that balances the needs of all users while safeguarding the response itself. This is where water use licencing and its regulatory terms and conditions come into play”.
Mrs Jimeta further stated that “the terms and conditions attached to these licences are designed to ensure that water usage is not only responsible but also equitable.”
According to her, “these conditions support environmental health, as they often include mandates for managing waste discharge, maintaining ecological balance, and preventing contamination of water bodies.”
The Acting Executive Director urged stakeholders to collectively support and strengthen the regulations to ensure water security for all Nigerians.
The Assistant Legal Adviser to the Commission, Mrs. Ekwere Bello Ikemhe while delivering her introductory speech said stakeholders from local water users to large scale industrial companies must understand and commit to the guidelines on licences.
“We need robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance and we must also invest in public awareness initiatives that educate water users about their responsibilities under the terms of their licences. Strengthening our regulatory capacity through technology and training for inspectors will be crucial as well,” she said.
Barrister Olumide Ologe made presentation during the workshop on ‘Regularisation of Licence Terms and Conditions: Enhancing Compliance and Strengthening Governance in the Water Sector.’
Barrister Winifred Alobo Agogo made presentation on ‘Regularisation of Licence Terms and Conditions in Nigeria’.
Fatimah Yusuf
Head (Information & Public Relations)