From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, said that the federal government has started interfacing with Enugu, Katsina and Imo States to effectively utilize water in Mashi, Sulma, Adada and Inishi dam reservoirs.
Adamu, speaking at a workshop held in Abuja on Tuesday, on the effective utilisation of impounded water across the country said the collaboration is yielding positive results.
He further explained that water from impounded dam reservoirs would sustain the fast-growing population through food security and job creation if properly utilized
“The Ministry has started interfacing with Katsina, Enugu and Imo State Governments respectively with a view to effectively utilising the water in Mashi, Sulma, Adada and Inishi dam reservoirs. This collaboration is yielding fruitful results.
The federal government has made huge investments in critical infrastructure, therefore, there is a need for optimal utilization of dam reservoirs to justify the investment. The water stored in dam reservoir is to be exploited for the economic development of the country and therefore, should not be left unutilised/underutilised considering the huge sum of money invested in the construction of these dams.
I am strongly convinced that the outcome of this workshop will impact positively the economic growth of the nation. The deliverables from the effective utilization of the water impounded in our dam reservoirs are expected to sustain our fast-growing population through water and food security. This will also ensure youths employment in the farms and agro-allied industries that will spring up, thereby enhancing the standard of living of our people.”
The minister lamented that some impounded dam reservoirs have not met their purpose of construction due to neglect by Nigerians.
He said,’ unfortunately, some of the impounded dam reservoirs across the country have not been put into best use after construction, thereby defeating the purpose for which they were built. This workshop therefore will not have come at a better time than now as it will fashion out ways to correct this ugly trend.
Director Dams and Operations, Dallah Ali said that addressing the numerous needs of the people won’t be possible without adequate utilisation of impounded water.” The utilisation of the impounded raw water in reservoirs for water supply, irrigation, hydropower, flood control, etc. is necessary for the achievement of some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
He appreciated the federal government for placing a high premium on the critical importance of dams in the socio-economic development of the country.