Water Resources Minister defends 2025 budget, outlines priorities
By Kunle Sanni
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, has defended the Ministry’s 2025 budget proposal, reaffirming its commitment to improving water resources, sanitation, and flood mitigation across Nigeria.
Speaking before the Senate Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation in Abuja on Monday, Prof. Utsev presented the Ministry’s ₦211.79 billion budget proposal for 2025 and reviewed the implementation of the 2024 budget.
He emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to completing key projects, boosting agriculture, creating jobs, and addressing challenges such as floods and droughts.
Progress in 2024
The Minister reported that the Ministry utilized 24.19% of its 2024 capital budget for critical projects, including dam construction, irrigation schemes, and solar-powered water systems. Key achievements include:
Completion of several dams and irrigation projects to support agriculture and water management.
Progress in sanitation, with 34 additional Local Government Areas (LGAs) declared open defecation-free, raising the national total to 136 LGAs.
2025 Budget Priorities
For 2025, the Ministry aims to:
Complete ongoing dam and irrigation projects.
Expand the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) program.
Intensify efforts to mitigate floods and droughts.
Enhance access to clean water nationwide.
Prof. Utsev expressed confidence in achieving these goals with the support of the National Assembly. “With sustained legislative backing, we are determined to deliver impactful solutions to Nigeria’s water and sanitation challenges,” he said.
Senate’s Call for Increased Funding
The Acting Chairman of the Senate Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation, Senator Kenneth Eze, commended the Ministry’s efforts and called for increased funding to complete critical projects.
The Committee highlighted the importance of prioritizing dam and irrigation projects, given their significance in addressing flooding and water management issues.
The lawmakers pledged their support to ensure the Ministry receives the resources needed to fulfil its mandate effectively.
