NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Ikenne LG celebrates open defecation free status
Environment

Ikenne LG celebrates open defecation free status

495 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Government has commended Ikenne Local Government Area (LGA) in Ogun state for achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, calling it a milestone for public health and community wellbeing.

At the formal celebration in Ikenne on Tuesday, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, acknowledged the importance of the achievement in improving the lives of women and children.

Utsev was represented by Mr Ibiyemi Olu-Daniels, a Director in the ministry.

He referenced the ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet’ campaign, which aimed to end open defecation by 2025, and said that 135 LGAs had now reached ODF status.

He urged the state to continue its efforts toward achieving ODF status across board, while emphasising the need for collaboration across sectors to ensure universal access to sanitation and hygiene.

He encouraged sustained efforts in the state to advance Nigeria’s development goals.

Ogun First Lady, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, spoke about the economic benefits of achieving ODF status and the ongoing initiatives to address sanitation issues.

Abiodun stressed the importance of teaching children hygiene practices, such as handwashing, and noted that only 135 out of 774 local governments in Nigeria had attained ODF status.

She acknowledged the success of community-led sanitation efforts, supported by the state government and UNICEF, which led to 171 communities being declared ODF-free.

She commended local government leaders and stakeholders for their contributions, and called for continued innovation and collaboration to sustain progress.

Mr Sola Ogunbo, Programme Manager of the Ogun State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWATSAN), praised the advancements in public health and environmental sustainability within the council.

He revealed huge improvements in residents’ quality of life due to initiatives aimed at eliminating open defecation and promoting access to sanitation facilities.

Ogunbo revealed that over 171 communities in Ikenne were now free from open defecation, leading to a substantial decline in such practices.

He also noted improvements in health outcomes, with malaria nearly eliminated and a decrease in other diseases, including neglected tropical diseases.

Citing World Health Organisation statistics, Ogunbo said that every dollar invested in sanitation yielded a 1.50 dollars return, noting the importance of ongoing investment in sanitation infrastructure.

He called for continued support from development partners, and encouraged investors to include sanitation facilities in their plans.

Ogunbo acknowledged the David Alaba Foundation for its 10 thousand dollars donation to construct ten biodegradable toilet facilities in Kara Market, Ogere.

According to him, such support is essential for sustaining public health and sanitation progress in Ikenne.

Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives from UNICEF, Satopan Lixil Technologies, and the Commissioners of Environment and Rural Development, as well as traditional rulers.

The event culminated in the formal presentation of a certificate, plaque, and flag to the First Lady and state representatives. (NAN) www.nannews.ng


Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Society applaud FG’s cancer control strides
Health

Society applaud FG’s cancer control strides

453 total views today

By Folasade Akpan

The President of Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS), Dr Abidemi Omonisi, has applauded the Federal Government’s initiatives in controlling the disease in the country.

He gave the commendation on Monday in Abuja during a news conference on the outcome of the society’s National Oncology Symposium and Annual General Meeting (AGM).

According to him, the National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) put in place by the Federal Government and encompasses policies, assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care has achieved good results.

He said that the plan, which was reviewed in 2023, helped to fill some required gaps.

He added that before the plan was operationalised, there were 33 cancer registries in the country but were now 44, making Nigeria the country with the highest number of registries that contribute data for global projection of cancers.

He noted that “in terms of treatment also, the Federal Government plans to establish six more cancer centres in the country, but we are saying that six is not enough, we must increase the number.”

Omonisi, however, said that state governments had not done enough in the cancer fight, as many had yet to domesticate the plan to achieve the expected result.

He said “there is this mentality that cancer control in Nigeria is the responsibility of the Federal Government alone.

“The Federal Government has done a lot, but many states do not even have a cancer control programme, and there is a huge gap between interventions by the Federal Government and state governments.

“However, NCS plans to interact with the Nigeria Governor’s Forum to get their committments on cancer control.”

Omonisi, therefore, urged ministries of education and health to incorporate psycho-oncology as part of the oncology curriculum in medical and nursing schools in the country.

He noted that most healthcare givers and policy makers do not recognise psycho-oncology in the management of cancer patients, which adversely contributed to the various challenges patients faced during transition from active treatment to post-treatment life.

According to him, stakeholders in the cancer space, especially healthcare givers, must pay attention to the evolving aspect of oncology.

He said this is because there is a transition from communicable diseases to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCS), particularly cancer, and that medical schools must be prepared for it.

He pointed out that “in our old curriculum, there was no emphasis on oncology and now we have a disease that is a major burden to us, and our medical health workers are not being trained to handle the future.

“However, in other countries, oncology is a major discipline, so oncology should be incorporated in what we teach our students in medical schools.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that during the AGM, Omonisi was elected as president of the society, along with a new National Executive Council for a two-year tenure, which would run from 2024 to 2026. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

New Minister says trade policy must empower Nigerian businesses
Economy/Business

New Minister says trade policy must empower Nigerian businesses

589 total views today

By Lucy Ogalue

The newly appointed Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, has pledged to prioritise the empowerment of Nigerian businesses through effective trade policies.

Oduwole made the pledge upon her assumption of office on Monday in Abuja.

She outlined her vision for the ministry, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of local enterprises and fostering economic growth.

According to Oduwole, trade policies must be tailored to meet the needs of Nigerian businesses.

“Trade policy must work for Nigerian businesses.

“We must ensure that our trade agreements, particularly the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA), are optimised for the benefit of local enterprises.

“We must focus on investment retention, therefore we need to create a more conducive environment for businesses currently operating in Nigeria,” she said.

The minister expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of the ministry and its agencies, underscoring the importance of regular meetings to set measurable targets.

She highlighted the need for accountability and transparency in the implementation of trade initiatives.

“What gets measured gets done. When we focus on what is measured and we work in a systemic manner, then we will not be under pressure. We set targets, we set timelines, and we monitor them.

“We escalate promptly, and we do different. This is what President Bola Tinubu expects.There is a sense of urgency which he reiterated this afternoon at the swearing in.

“We as a team can promise Nigerians today that they will definitely see tangible results from us in the near future. With that, I look forward to working with you,” she said.

Oduwole acknowledged the existing challenges faced by Nigerian businesses, including energy constraints and market access issues.

She reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing these bottlenecks, particularly through partnerships with other ministries.

She also reassured stakeholders of her willingness to collaborate with relevant bodies to create productive jobs and enhance Nigeria’s export capabilities.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Amb. Nura Rimi, expressed the williness of the ministry to support Oduwole achieve her vision for the industry and Nigeria.

“We all know what is required in Nigeria, but without strong leadership, without strong followership, there is nothing that can be achieved.

 “So I will like to call on all directors, who I describe as supportive and hard-working, to join me in supporting the honourable minister.

“The president chose her because he knows that she is the right person. So we all have to come out of our shell to support her,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)


Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

FG commits to dam rehabilitation for flood control, irrigation – Minister
Environment

FG commits to dam rehabilitation for flood control, irrigation – Minister

645 total views today

By Habibu Harisu

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to rehabilitate dams across Nigeria to prevent flooding and enhance irrigation.

Utsev gave this assurance on Monday during a visit to Shagari Dam in Sokoto with the Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee on Evaluation of Dams.

Represented by Mrs Oluwatosin Abiola, Deputy Director of Dams and Reservoir Operations, he noted that many dams in Nigeria are aging and require maintenance and upgrades.

A technical sub-committee, led by the Director of Dams and Reservoir Operations, has been established to assess the physical condition of dams nationwide and their impact on local communities.

The findings will be submitted for further action.

The minister explained that the inspections are meant to evaluate the safety and operational status of dams for flood control and economic use.

“Shagari Dam is safe, with no signs of deterioration in water reserve, embankments, spillways, and irrigable areas”.

He emphasised the need for increased investment in dam construction and maintenance to maximise their capacity for food production.

The Minister explained that President Bola Tinubu is committed to rehabilitating existing dams and building new ones for flood control and irrigation to ensure food security, pledging full efforts to achieve this goal.

Managing Director of Sokoto Rima Basin Development Authority (SRBDA), Mr Muhammad Bature, expressed appreciation to the President for the initiative.

“Shagari Dam has a 15 million cubic meter capacity, stands 13 meters high, and spans 1,340 meters in length, with 240 hectares currently under irrigation”.

He added that 1,000 hectares have been proposed for irrigation, with 70 per cent of the project completed.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the team’s evaluation will provide critical insights into Nigeria’s dam infrastructure, guiding future policies on flood control and water resource management. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal

Nigeria, Cameroon partner to support livelihoods in Mandara region
Environment

Nigeria, Cameroon partner to support livelihoods in Mandara region

552 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

Nigeria and Cameroon have established a regional platform to jointly manage the Mandara region’s shared resources, addressing environmental challenges and enhancing community livelihoods.

This was the thrust at the Regional Workshop for the establishment and capacity building of the transboundary ecosystems of the Mount Mandara Plateau in Abuja on Monday.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, stated that the workshop aims to build capacity and create a joint platform for managing the shared ecosystem.

According to him, the initiative seeks to enhance cooperation for the sustainable management of the Mandara region’s environmental resources, benefiting communities on both sides of the border.

Utsev was represented by Adeyinka Adenopo, who discussed the transboundary ecosystems of the Mount Mandara Plateau and Sena Oura/Bouba Ndjida (BSB) within the framework of transboundary cooperation.

He noted that they have identified capacity-building needs to improve governance and sustainable management of these ecosystems and to establish national platforms in each country.

Mr Michael Shehu, representing Michika Local Government in Adamawa State, stated the significance of the new platform.

He explained that it brings together Nigerian and Cameroonian representatives to collaboratively develop strategies to address pressing environmental challenges, such as soil erosion caused by runoff from the hills.

This, he said has negatively impacted local households, farms, and agricultural viability in the Mandara region.

Shehu noted that potential solutions, including constructing dams and other water management infrastructure, could help mitigate these issues and prevent future hazards.

He added that such projects would directly benefit communities by reducing erosion and promoting sustainable land use.

Cameroon’s National President of the Mandara Platform, Mr Yama Gilbert, expressed gratitude to both governments for their support of the project.

Gilbert noted the anticipated improvements in the lives of people in the Mandara region, calling the initiative a “double pride” for Cameroon due to its focus on sustainable resource management and livelihoods.

He also thanked the Niger Basin Authority and the broader team supporting the platform’s establishment.

Mr Allomasso Tchokponhoué, Regional Project Coordinator of the Niger Basin Integrated Transboundary Ecosystem and Adaptation Support (NB-ITTAS) project, emphasised the workshop’s importance for the sustainable management of the Mandara Plateau ecosystems.

He outlined the event’s key objectives, including training participants on resource management and securing funding for sustainability.

“Following the workshop, attendees will return to their countries to replicate these training sessions at the national level”.

Tchokponhoué also stressed the importance of implementing concrete, on-the-ground projects that will benefit local communities and promote ecosystem stewardship.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Mount Mandara Plateau is an ecoregion that includes the Mandara Mountains, a volcanic range in northern Cameroon and northeastern Nigeria.

Conservation actions include encouraging sustainable farming techniques, restoring and reforesting forests, and establishing protected areas. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Energy security: Dogara tees-off 2nd NESI golf tournament in Abuja
Sports

Energy security: Dogara tees-off 2nd NESI golf tournament in Abuja

725 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara on Saturday teed off the second edition of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) golf tournament at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the tournament which brought together over 160 golfers is meant to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders in the Nigerian electricity sector.

Dogara, shortly after performing the ceremonial tee-off along other dignitaries told NAN that the tournament was a good platform for stakeholders to cross fertilise ideas on the way forward for the energy sector.

“This tournament is not just for entertainment but for stakeholders to come together, not just to play golf but for contemplation.

“Because a golf course is a place for contemplation, you meet and interact with people in the course of the sport, unlike football or basketball or any other game.

“This is a game that is engaging in terms of intellectual reflection, physical exercise and generally about togetherness,” he said.

The former speaker stressed the need for all stakeholders to synergise and find a lasting solution to the energy crises in the country.

“Certainly you know that power supply is an issue, we are talking about transiting from a consumer nation to a production nation.

“We all know that without adequate power supply we cannot achieve this, am also a farmer and I know what lack of electricity or the energy crises has caused me at the farm.

“We need to look outside the box for this problem and it’s part of the things we will be engaging with leaders and organisers of this event,” he said.

Earlier, Adetunji Adeyeye, the Coordinator of the tournament told NAN that the event will avail industry stakeholders the platform to engage in a relaxed atmosphere on the way forward for the sector.

Adeyeye who is a market specialist and power generator, stressed the need for more investment in the sector and ensuring efficient service delivery across the value chain.

“The golf tournament is a forum and a platform to bring all stakeholders within the Nigerian power sector to have conversations, strategise and engage informally to drive at the efficiency that we seek for in our power sector.

“You know, the power sector is very core and germain part of our national development.

“Majorly, this forum, the golf platform gives us a really immense and huge opportunity to engage with lots of our customers across the board and across different chains of the sector to get feedback.

“So it’s a platform for fusion of conversation both about our service delivery as well as how to improve generally,” he said.

NAN reports that the tournament will be rounded off with a gala dinner on Saturday and prizes presented to winners in the different categories. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

China’s agricultural sector to reach 1.4trn jin—Economist
Foreign

China’s agricultural sector to reach 1.4trn jin—Economist

628 total views today

By Fortune Abang

Yao Jingyuan, former Chief Economist of the National Bureau of Statistics of China, has projected the Chinese agricultural sector national grain output to reach new high record of 1.4 trillion jin.

Jingyuan, who is well-versed in China’s economic indicators with not less than four decades of experience in economic analysis, disclosed this at the virtual 2024 annual meeting of Harvard Business Review in Beijing.

According to him, investing in China truly means investing in valuable opportunities.

“The 1.4 trillion jin approximately 700 million tonnes so far recorded this year marked an increase of about 100 billion jin; that is 50 thousand tonnes compared to the average of the past nine years.

“The Chinese economy is intricate; yet one of the most straightforward ways to assess it is through agricultural and industrial output.

“In 2024, China has recorded a significant grain harvest and substantial growth in industrial output, underscoring its stable and robust production capacity.

“This achievement not only signifies several consecutive years of ample grain production in China, but also reinforces the country’s food security.”

He emphasised the importance of stable agricultural product supply rather than focusing solely on statistics.

Jingyuan added that one should observe the food market, abundance of meat, poultry, egg and vegetables, along with a decline in prices.

On the industrial sector, he explained that equipment manufacturing grew by 7.5 per cent, while high-tech manufacturing surged by 9.1 per cent in the first three quarters of this year.

“Manufacturing remains the backbone of the industry and is gaining momentum, particularly high-tech sector; energy consumption per unit of added value among large industrial enterprises decreased by 3.8 per cent year-on-year in the same period.

“Exports, a key driver of economic growth, have performed impressively this year, in the first three quarters, China’s exports increased by 6.2 per cent year-on-year, reflecting the country’s sustained competitiveness in global trade.

“These strong export performances are attributed to China’s robust comprehensive industrial and supply chains, formidable production capacity, and the vitality of the private sector, which constitutes 55 per cent of the economy.

“Therefore, I anticipate that China’s import and export activities will maintain positive momentum over the next two months”.

He commended the Chinese government for policies addressing challenges and boosting investment in infrastructure, industry, and property, noting industrial investment in large-scale equipment upgrades as especially promising.

Jingyuan said that data from the National Development and Reform Commission in 2023, indicated that investment in equipment for key sectors such as industry and agriculture in China amounted to approximately 4.9 trillion yuan.

“The government plans to increase this investment by 25 per cent over four years, targeting 7 trillion yuan by 2027, which translates to an annual addition of 350 billion yuan in new industrial investment.”

Jingyuan said he anticipated that China would continue to issue ultra-long special treasury bonds in 2025 and expressed strong confidence in the future of the Chinese economy.

He further called for collaboration across all sectors of society to seize emerging development opportunities.

“We must believe that China will overcome challenges and restore public confidence and expectations.

“We have faced severe obstacles during our most trying times, such as the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Asian financial crisis in 1998, and the U.S. subprime mortgage crisis in 2008.

“We are in a much stronger position than we were in those situations; and we will succeed once again,”  he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

C-G national park pledges repositioning through strategic collaborations
Environment

C-G national park pledges repositioning through strategic collaborations

662 total views today

By Abigael Joshua

Dr Ibrahim Goni, Conservator-General of the National Park Service (NPS), has pledged to enhance the service standing both locally and internationally through strategic collaborations.

The Conservator-General made this commitment in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.

He said that his dedication to service was further strengthened by a commendation letter from Mr Umar Gari, Chairman of the Serti-Baruwa Local Government Area in Taraba.

Goni also noted that the park’s recent recognition as a World Heritage site by the World Heritage Volunteers has inspired him to pursue more strategic collaborations.

Gari, who also spoke with NAN, praised Goni for the transformative initiatives introduced at Gashaka Gumti National Park under his leadership.

These initiatives, he said, led to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Africa Nature Investors.

He added that these efforts have enhanced park protection, improved internal security, and positively impacted the local community through various initiatives.

The chairman also commended the Conservator-General for appointing Deputy Conservator of Parks (DCP) Jonah Moses, a native of the local government, as acting Conservator of Parks for Hadejia Wetlands National Park.

Gari further lauded Goni’s efforts in creating job opportunities for local youth, but appealed for more employment opportunities, particularly in senior positions.

The chairman assured Goni of his community’s unwavering support for the National Park Service’s efforts to achieve international standards in conservation and sustainable management of Nigeria’s parks. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Expert advocates Nigerian software to boost secretaries’ efficiency
General News

Expert advocates Nigerian software to boost secretaries’ efficiency

582 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Dr Stanley Jacob, Chief Executive Officer of Zest Payment Ltd., has urged the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) to lead the development of Nigerian-built software for secretaries and corporate governance professionals.

Jacob made this appeal at the ICSAN Lagos Chapter Summit on Thursday in Lagos.

He noted that such software would be essential in advancing the digital transformation of ICSAN’s operations over the next two years.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit, themed “Governance and Business Innovation in Contemporary Times,” addressed current issues in governance and innovation.

Jacob noted that one of the primary barriers to digital transformation is the cost of digitalisation, necessitating the need for ICSAN to develop locally tailored software for Nigerian company secretaries, administrators, and governance practitioners.

“As President of the Fintech Association of Nigeria, we are committed to collaborating with ICSAN to adopt the right technologies and train secretaries to use them effectively,” he said.

Jacob added that digital software would enable secretaries to track compliance, ensure data security, and protect stakeholder privacy.

He also encouraged secretaries to leverage technology to offer insights and strategic recommendations to company boards.

“Digital adoption must be optimised, with secretaries working closely with boards to facilitate a seamless transition.

“Secretaries should stay informed about emerging technologies and implement the best tools available.”

Ms. Efosa Ewere, Chairperson of the ICSAN Lagos Chapter, stated that governance and innovation are increasingly interconnected in today’s fast-paced world.

She emphasised that this synergy shapes the resilience and success of organisations and influences society as a whole.

Ewere noted that Nigeria’s economic uncertainties and rapid technological shifts require governance professionals to rethink frameworks, fostering innovation while ensuring accountability and ethics.

“In today’s context, good governance goes beyond compliance; it’s about creating an environment where innovation thrives while maintaining transparency and integrity.

“We need governance frameworks that encourage creativity and safeguard stakeholders’ interests”.

Mr Hakeem Ogunniran, Chairman of Lagos Building Investment Co. Plc, stressed that understanding the link between governance and business innovation is essential for a successful business environment.

He explained that innovation is a means to meet organisational demands and achieve market dominance.

Ogunniran also noted that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) opens new avenues for corporate governance professionals, though he cautioned that they must be aware of AI’s limitations and potential misuse. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

NIHSA to strengthen surface, groundwater reserves
Environment

NIHSA to strengthen surface, groundwater reserves

795 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), has pledged to strengthen the management of surface and groundwater resources for the benefit of the Nigerian population.

NIHSA’s Director General, Umar Mohammed, made this commitment at the National Regional Action Plan (RAP) Validation Workshop on the Niger Basin Iullemeden-Taoudeni/Tanezerouft Aquifer Systems (NB-ITTAS) in Abuja on Thursday.

Represented by Mrs Awoibi Joe-Ukairo, Deputy Director of Hydro-Geophysics, Mohammed stated that the workshop aims to address strategic goals for enhancing regional water governance and sustainability.

He noted that the workshop marks a major step toward achieving sustainable water management and fostering cross-border collaboration for environmental resilience.

According to him, key objectives include enhancing knowledge and monitoring of the ITTAS aquifer, promoting cooperative governance, and encouraging sustainable groundwater use.

“Additionally, strengthening climate resilience, ensuring funding, providing training, and integrating communication and gender considerations across RAP activities are crucial priorities.

“The RAP identifies 74 preliminary actions across five strategic areas: Knowledge and Monitoring; Cooperative Governance and Solidarity; Sustainable Development and Groundwater Protection.

“Others are Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change; and Resource Mobilisation, Training, Communication, and Gender.

“Our commitment to these actions is vital to sustainably managing our water resources, essential for community wellbeing,” said Mohammed.

He commended the dedication of the Inter-Ministerial Committee members and acknowledged the contributions of Dr Sauret Serge, the project consultant, along with online participants.

Mr Stephen Jabo, Director of Hydro-Geophysics with NIHSA, revealed Nigeria’s partnerships with UNESCO and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to enhance groundwater monitoring and isotope analysis capabilities.

“These collaborations have advanced Nigeria’s understanding of water resources, though the country still relies on external laboratories for isotope studies on groundwater renewal, pollution tracing, and water age”.

He added that the Federal Ministry of Water Resources has invested in a mass spectrometer intended for the Centre for Energy Research and Training in Zaria, saying security concerns have delayed its installation.

“This challenge has spurred discussions on acquiring a new spectrometer to establish domestic isotope analysis capabilities, which would benefit Nigeria and neighboring West African countries.

“While the Niger Basin Authority manages surface water in the Niger Basin, groundwater resources, such as the Sokoto Basin, lack an equivalent oversight body”.

Jabo also addressed Nigeria’s role in the Sahel transboundary water resource project, which involves 11 countries focused on shared water governance.

He stressed the need for a regional institution to manage shared aquifers, coordinated by the Sahara and Sahel Observatory, to mitigate risks from pollution and over-extraction across borders.

Mr Sunday Hussaini, Consultant for the IAEA Sahel Project in the Sokoto Basin, outlined groundwater challenges, such as limited rainfall often below 600mm annually near the Nigeria-Niger border and high evaporation rates.

“Increasing reliance on groundwater for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use, combined with the lack of regulation, has led to declining water levels, further exacerbated by climate change and drought”.

Hussaini recommended that septic tanks should not be constructed near public water sources to prevent contamination.

He also called on state governments to regulate groundwater usage, implement integrated water resource management, and conserve free-flowing wells for local development. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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