FG develops action plan for WASH sector

The Federal Government in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has carried out the Climate Risk Analysis for Nigeria. This is just as it also developed an action plan for climate resilience in the WASH sector.

Also, the states have been urged to ensure adequate implementation of the plan so as to enjoy a climate resilient WASH sector.

The action plan is expected to provide a comprehensive framework that assesses the current climate situation in each geopolitical zone of the country and proffer innovative solutions in order to improve the WASH services.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the National Workshop on the Development of Climate Risk Analysis and Plan of Action for the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector, Wednesday in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun, Utsev said the Climate Risk Analysis and Action Plan for the WASH sector in Nigeria is designed to address some of these concerns head-on so will be our guiding compass on this journey.

According to the Minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Aliyu Shehu Shinkafi, “This plan is not just about short-term fixes; it’s about long-term impact. It’s about ensuring that the boreholes we construct, the toilets we build, and the hygiene practices we promote are climate resilient and continue to serve generations to come.

“I therefore call upon everyone to play an active role in making this initiative a success. As a responsible Ministry, we shall continue to allocate resources, enact policies, and create an enabling environment for Climate Resilient WASH.

“I equally enjoin all our State Government and partners to mobilize communities, raise awareness, and most importantly hold stakeholders accountable on issues around WASH and Climate Change. The private sector can also contribute through innovative technologies, investments, and corporate social responsibility initiatives,” he said

Also, UNICEF’s WASH Manager, Mr. Chiranjibi Tiwari, said Nigeria is the second globally on countries with climate change vulnerability and that the water sector is more important than other sectors as it is at the middle of climate impact.

He said the action plan is very important for states and local governments to plan their part in the implementation.

The Director, Hydrology at the Ministry, Mr. Mukaila Babarinde, explained that the technical working committee for the analysis was set up in May 2024. He called for collaboration, saying that the SDG goals cannot be achieved without adequate collaboration.