WaterAid Nigeria, along with its partners, commemorated the 2024 World Water Day in Lagos, shining a spotlight on Nigeria’s pressing water challenges.
Speaking at the event, WaterAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Evelyn Mere, underscored that a mere 10% of Nigeria’s population enjoys access to essential Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, leaving a staggering 185 million people devoid of these basic necessities.
Mere stated, “This global initiative aims to raise awareness about water-related issues and advocate for sustainable management of our essential water resources.” She continued, “The initiative aligns with WaterAid’s mission; to transform the lives of the poorest and most marginalized people by expanding and improving access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene in consonance with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.”
The theme for this year, “Water for Peace,” emphasizes the intrinsic link between water and peace, especially amidst challenges posed by climate change impacting water availability and quality.
In Lagos State, Nigeria’s largest population center and economic hub, approximately 45% of the population lacks adequate water facilities. Mere stressed the necessity for collaborative efforts among stakeholders, acknowledging recent policy approvals by the Lagos State government as positive strides toward addressing the water crisis.
WaterAid, in collaboration with partners including Cummins, PepsiCo, the LatterDay Saints Charity, Armani, Microsoft, Kimberly Clerk Foundation, and the Caterpillar Foundation, continues to champion initiatives aimed at enhancing access to clean water in schools, healthcare centers, and communities. Mere urged stakeholders to seize the World Water Day celebration as an opportunity to reconsider strategies and invest in safeguarding the right to water for all, thereby promoting peace and well-being in communities.
The event also witnessed contributions from various stakeholders, including the Association of Table Water Producers of Nigeria (ATWAP), represented by Mrs. Michael Mary Oye, Vice Chairman 1 of the Lagos Chapter. Mrs. Oye emphasized the imperative of water accessibility and the urgent need to tackle plastic pollution, particularly in Lagos State.
While acknowledging the state government’s efforts in implementing recycling programs, Mrs. Oye called for collective action to combat plastic pollution and preserve water resources.
Mrs. Adesola Omowumi Ajimuda, Principal of Oregun Junior High School, expressed appreciation to the Lagos State government, WaterAid Nigeria, and other partners for their endeavors in ensuring access to clean water. She acknowledged the significance of the World Water Day celebration in raising awareness and driving positive change.
In a goodwill message, Mr. Olufemi Asaolu, a Director in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, representing the commissioner, Honourable Kolade Ali-Balogun, commended WaterAid Nigeria and its partners for their intervention at Oregun and Agidingbi secondary schools.
“One thing with Lagos State is that it is a special state, we welcome collaboration from every angle as the government cannot do it alone. Lagos is home to all and most of the facilities provided by the government are overstretched, so the government appreciates all the interventions,” he remarked.
Students from five public secondary schools in Ojudu and Agidingbi delivered various presentations aligning with the theme of the 2024 World Water Day.