Oyo reaffirms commitment to clean water

The Oyo State government, through the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, has reiterated its dedication to ensuring sustainable access to clean and safe drinking water for residents.

This reaffirmation came as the state joined the global community in marking World Water Day.

World Water Day, observed annually on March 22, highlights the global water crisis and the urgent need to provide safe water for all.

The 2024 theme, “Glacier Preservation,” underscores the importance of protecting glaciers, which play a crucial role in the global water cycle, biodiversity, and human livelihoods.

Speaking on Sunday, Chairman of RUWASSA, Babalola Afobaje, stressed the significance of glacier preservation, warning that their rapid melting signals a dangerous rise in global temperatures.

“Data from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) notes that glaciers store nearly 70 per cent of the world’s freshwater supply, making their loss a severe threat to water security, food production, and ecosystem stability,” Afobaje stated.

Although Nigeria does not have glaciers, Afobaje emphasized that their melting has far-reaching consequences, including rising sea levels, coastal flooding, extreme weather events, and freshwater shortages.

“Climate-induced temperature increases are already affecting Nigeria’s agriculture, water availability, and disaster resilience,” he noted.

Acknowledging the indispensable role of water in public health, environmental sustainability, and economic growth, Afobaje highlighted the ongoing efforts of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s administration in prioritizing water infrastructure and resource management since 2019.

“The Oyo State government will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to expand access to potable water, enhance climate-resilient infrastructure, and strengthen policies that guarantee a water-secure future for Oyo State,” Afobaje assured.