The Federal Government of Nigeria has kicked off a nationwide consultation process aimed at developing a National Water Compact. This initiative seeks to tackle the country's ongoing challenges in water supply and sanitation, as disclosed by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, during a workshop in Abuja.

Utsev highlighted that Nigeria's water sector faces numerous hurdles, including rapid urbanization, population growth, climate change, environmental degradation, and inadequate infrastructure. These issues have hindered the nation's ability to provide reliable water supply and sanitation services. "Water is at the centre of sustainable development. It underpins public health, food security, economic growth, environmental sustainability, energy production and national security," he stated.

The need for a National Water Compact arises amid growing concerns regarding the provision of safe water and sanitation services to Nigeria's increasing population. Recent government efforts have focused on enhancing coordination between federal and state governments, boosting investments in water infrastructure, and strengthening institutional frameworks within the sector.

Access to clean water is critically linked to public health, education, agricultural productivity, and overall household welfare. Poor water and sanitation conditions can lead to waterborne diseases, while unreliable water supply adversely impacts schools, healthcare facilities, and businesses. To address these challenges, the Federal Government aims to establish a coordinated national framework that integrates water supply, sanitation, irrigation, environmental protection, public health, and climate resilience.

The compact is being developed in alignment with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and is expected to create a structured approach for transforming Nigeria's water sector. Utsev explained that the compact will enhance governance and institutional coordination, improve financing, accelerate access to safe and climate-resilient water supply, and support irrigation development.

The initiative is also influenced by the African Union's Africa Water Vision and Policy 2025–2063, which encourages Nigeria to tailor its national compact to meet specific needs and developmental priorities. A National Technical Working Committee has already drafted the first version of the compact, following extensive technical engagements and consultations.

Utsev emphasized that the success of the compact depends on the commitment and active participation of state governments and other stakeholders, as they play a crucial role in delivering and managing water supply and sanitation services. He has reached out to the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to ensure the involvement of all 36 state governors and the Federal Capital Territory in this process.

The ongoing consultations aim to identify gaps in the draft compact, determine state priorities, propose strategic actions, and enhance implementation arrangements before finalizing the document. Utsev urged participants to contribute practical recommendations that would lead to tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.

Additionally, Ali Dalla, the acting Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, remarked that the consultation is a significant opportunity to build a national consensus on the future of Nigeria’s water sector. He stressed that the compact should not be viewed solely as a government initiative but as a framework that belongs to all stakeholders.

Dr. Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health, also underscored the connection between water security and public health, emphasizing that inadequate access to water and sanitation can severely impact hygiene and healthcare delivery. He called for stronger collaboration between the water and health sectors, especially in light of environmental challenges that affect water availability and quality.

The consultations are expected to yield recommendations that will inform the final National Water Compact, which the government anticipates will provide a clearer framework for coordinated investment and action across Nigeria’s water sector.