Niger River Basin threatened- Nigerian Minister Cries Out
In determination to save the Niger River Basin and environments from degradation, the Nigerian Government has called on member countries for their ownership of NBA actions as well as their political and financial support so as to create favourable conditions for the people especially youths of the area.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of 36th Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers of the Niger Basin Authority on Friday 6th April, 2018 in Abuja, the Chairman of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Water Resources of Nigeria, Engr. Suleiman H. Adamu said that despite the significant efforts made in the payment of contributions, there is still more to be done with regards to following up with our Development Partners. Engr. Adamu therefore urged for possibilities of considering and approving NBA Budget a year ahead.
Adamu said “this precious liquid (water) that flows over the nine (9) member countries of our region of our organization needs to be preserved, protected and well managed for everyone’s well-being.”
With the combined phenomenon of climate change, population growth, irrational and abusive exploitation of natural resources on the socio-economic activities of the basin, Adamu called on member countries to come out from this 36th Ordinary Session with resolutions and solutions to addressing the many challenges facing the basin.
He said that despite the difficulties facing the basin, with the political will of member countries and the active support of the Development Partners, the organization has made some significant progress which includes amongst others: the development and implementation of the Shared Vision Process for the sustainable development of Niger Basin and the adoption of a Sustainable Development Action Plan (SDAP) with a 2008- 2027 investment programme for a total cost of 6.3 billion Euro.
The Executive Secretary of the Niger Basin, Mr. Abderahim Bireme Hamid expressed his commitment to revamp the Executive Secretariat and enhance dialogue with member countries, Technical and Financial Partners in order to establish the conditions required for the conduct of NBA objectives for the effective implementation of investment recorded in the 2016 – 2024 Operational Plan incorporating the Climate Resilience Investment Plan for the benefit of the people of the Niger Basin.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of NBA Parliamentary Network, Honorable Abdoulaye Fofana said that the Parliamentarian of NBA countries have signed a declaration and resolved that member countries would strive to meet up with their financial commitments to save the Basin.
Kenechukwu Offie (Mrs.)
Director (Press and Public Relations)
Federal Ministry of Water Resources
