The Minister of Water Resources, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, has received high praise from the Empowerment for Unemployed Initiative and the Society for Open Governance and Transparency. They commended his dedicated efforts in developing and managing surface and groundwater resources in Nigeria. Speaking on behalf of the two groups, Comrade Igwe Umanta and Danelson Momoh highlighted Utsev’s impactful stewardship, which has led to socio-economic growth and prosperity in the water sector.
According to the groups, Utsev’s achievements in just one year have affirmed his suitability and competence for the critical role he occupies. They stated, “The Honorable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, has exhibited an unwavering dedication to the implementation of governance indices that foster efficient management and development in the water sector.”
The groups praised the Minister for his focus on key areas such as food security through irrigated agriculture, ensuring access to clean water for all citizens, effective management of River Basin Development Authorities, quality work and timely completion of projects, community involvement in WASH facility management, accountability and transparency, as well as collaboration and partnerships.
In terms of project delivery, the groups noted that Utsev has made significant strides. They highlighted the completion and commissioning of previously abandoned water schemes and dam projects, as well as ongoing initiatives across various states.
Some notable projects mentioned include water schemes and dam projects in Kano, Jigawa, Kogi, Benue, and Niger, Hadejia Jam’are River Basin Development Authority projects, a water bottling factory in Kano, and multipurpose dam projects in Kogi, Benue, and Niger.
The groups commended Prof Utsev for his accomplishments so far and encouraged him to continue making progress. They also called on Nigerians to support the efforts of the Tinubu administration in addressing water challenges and urged state governors to collaborate with the Federal Government to invest in water infrastructure. Additionally, they appealed to development partners to increase their support in achieving the goal of providing sustainable water and improved sanitation for all by 2030.
