Nigeria's rivers are under increasing pressure from various environmental challenges, including pollution, untreated wastewater, and deforestation, according to Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation. Speaking in Abuja on the occasion of the 2026 World Rivers Day, Utsev raised concerns about the deterioration of the country's rivers, which poses significant risks to water security, public health, agriculture, livelihoods, and biodiversity. The minister emphasized the need for urgent attention to address these challenges.
The theme of this year's World Rivers Day celebration, "No Forests, No Rivers, No Water, No Life," highlights the interconnectedness of healthy ecosystems and sustainable water resources. Utsev stressed that Nigeria's rivers should not be viewed merely as waterways but as critical national assets that support various sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, domestic and industrial water supply, livelihoods, and economic activities. He emphasized the importance of adopting a holistic approach to manage the country's watersheds and water resources.
The minister identified several factors contributing to the degradation of Nigeria's rivers, including population growth, rapid urbanization, untreated wastewater, indiscriminate disposal of solid waste, agricultural runoff, erosion, and sand mining. Additionally, changing rainfall patterns, flooding, and drought associated with climate change are compounding the challenges. Utsev noted that these activities have placed rivers and communities dependent on them under increasing pressure.
Utsev emphasized that healthy rivers depend on healthy catchments, which include forests, wetlands, floodplains, and groundwater recharge areas. These ecosystems play crucial roles in protecting river sources and regulating water flows. However, the degradation of these natural systems has exacerbated the challenges facing Nigeria's rivers. The minister stressed the need for a shift from fragmented interventions to integrated management of the country's watersheds and water resources.
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation is taking steps to address the challenges facing Nigeria's rivers. Utsev said the ministry is strengthening Integrated Water Resources Management and working with relevant agencies to protect and restore watersheds and river catchments. The minister emphasized that upstream activities can have consequences for communities downstream, as rivers do not conform to administrative boundaries.
The degradation of Nigeria's rivers has significant implications for the country's water security, public health, and economic development. Utsev noted that the situation requires a coordinated response from governments, stakeholders, and communities to address the root causes of the challenges. The minister called for a renewed commitment to protecting and preserving the country's rivers for future generations.
The Federal Government's efforts to address the challenges facing Nigeria's rivers are critical to ensuring sustainable water resources and healthy ecosystems. The ministry's initiatives aim to promote integrated water resources management, protect watersheds and river catchments, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. By working together, stakeholders can help safeguard Nigeria's rivers and the livelihoods of communities dependent on them.
Key points
- Nigeria's rivers face growing threats from pollution, deforestation, and climate change.
- The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation is strengthening Integrated Water Resources Management to address the challenges.
- The degradation of Nigeria's rivers poses significant risks to water security, public health, agriculture, livelihoods, and biodiversity.
