The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) is taking significant strides to enhance water resource management across Nigeria through a strategic partnership with AguaXvida, an Argentine non-profit organization committed to providing clean and safe water in Africa. This potential collaboration was the focus of a recent workshop held at the Argentine Embassy in Nigeria, attended by NIHSA's Director General, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, and the Director of Operational Hydrology, Pastor Femi Bejide.
AguaXvida, which translates to "Water for Life," adopts a community-centered approach, involving local communities in constructing wells and other sustainable water projects. This method has been successfully implemented in advanced economies such as Australia and Israel, where similar strategies have significantly improved water management. These countries have demonstrated that community involvement, combined with sustainable technologies, is vital to ensuring long-term water availability. According to findings by Abuja Network News, this approach could greatly benefit Nigeria, particularly in remote and underserved areas where water scarcity is most acute.
The workshop highlighted AguaXvida’s plan to implement medium-depth wells (up to 30 meters) equipped with solar pumps to bring clean water to communities lacking access to safe drinking water. Their initiatives also include repairing existing water wells, modernizing water extraction systems, and utilizing renewable energy sources to ensure a reliable water supply. Additionally, AguaXvida offers technical training for local youth in water and sanitation project maintenance, fostering local capacity and ensuring the sustainability of these water projects.
L - R: His Excellency the Argentinean Ambassador, Pst Femi Bejide in the middle and Umar Ibrahim Mohamned, the DG of NIHSA.
In his remarks, Director General Umar Ibrahim Mohammed emphasized the critical importance of clean water access for Nigeria's most vulnerable populations. He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to learn from AguaXvida’s experiences and underscored the need for partnerships to improve water management practices in Nigeria. The Director General also highlighted the potential for knowledge exchange and collaboration with AguaXvida, which could lead to innovative solutions for the country's water challenges.
The findings by Abuja Network News underline the importance of this initiative, noting that sustainable water management practices, such as those proposed by AguaXvida, are essential for addressing Nigeria's pressing water scarcity issues. The move to collaborate with AguaXvida is seen as a significant step toward implementing global best practices in water resource management, which could enhance the availability and quality of water in Nigeria, particularly in remote and vulnerable communities.
The Argentinean Water company Boss, the Lady facilitator, his Excellency the Ambassador, and Director General of NIHSA
This partnership represents a crucial opportunity for NIHSA to leverage international expertise and foster local capabilities, ensuring a sustainable future for Nigeria’s water resources. By adopting innovative and community-driven approaches, NIHSA is positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable water management in Nigeria, reflecting a strong commitment to addressing the country’s water challenges effectively.
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