By Ify Onyekwere
In a recent discussion on the Development Report Program, Mr. Benson Attah, National Coordinator of the Society for Water and Sanitation NEWSAN, highlighted the urgent need for innovative approaches to water conservation in Nigeria. Addressing the growing threats to safe water, Attah emphasized the difference between water abundance and water quality, pointing out that while floods provide vast quantities of water, it is often unusable for daily needs. “When we talk about water, we’re talking about water that is safe to drink and use. Safe water is essential for life,” he noted, underscoring the importance of responsible usage and conservation.
Attah pointed out that many people misuse treated water simply because they do not directly pay for it, which can lead to wastefulness. He explained, “In areas where water is easily accessible and free, there’s often little consideration for conservation. But in drought-prone regions, where water access is limited, people are more conscious about managing it.” He suggested that households reserve treated, potable water for drinking and cooking, while using rainwater or borehole water for other purposes like gardening.
The conversation also delved into the environmental challenges posed by urban development in urban areas like Lekki, a reclaimed area in Lagos. “Lekki was previously river and sea territory, and because of the reclamation, there’s a higher risk of water contamination. Earlier this year, a cholera outbreak affected the area, underscoring the impact of poor water quality on public health,” Attah explained, highlighting the need for vigilance in such areas.
Innovation, Attah said, is key to water conservation. He emphasized rainwater harvesting as one of the most accessible and effective conservation methods, particularly in regions with unreliable water supplies. “In some areas, community members come together to build dams or collect rainwater for communal use. This approach not only conserves water but also ensures that it can serve more people over time,” he explained.
Attah shared examples of communities in Edo State that rely on water-harvesting practices to overcome supply challenges. In these communities, underground tanks store rainwater, while others pipe water from nearby streams. He noted, however, that the journey from source to tap can introduce contaminants, underscoring the importance of water safety plans to protect public health.
Urban areas, too, have options for conservation, especially through reusable methods. Attah suggested that cities adopt policies encouraging such practices to support long-term water sustainability.
On government policy, Attah stressed that federal guidelines serve as a framework for states, but it is ultimately up to state and local governments to ensure that citizens have access to water. He observed that in many metropolitan areas, inadequate government-provided water services often push citizens toward “self-help” solutions. To address this, he advocated for fair regulations and oversight to prevent price exploitation. Attah also encouraged private-sector involvement, but with adequate legal protections to foster sustainable partnerships.
Attah highlighted the role of research in identifying water challenges, particularly those arising from climate change. “Research helps us understand the specific water challenges we face, especially those linked to climate change, and allows us to develop effective adaptation measures,” he explained.
The discussion concluded with a call for communities, government, and the private sector to collaborate on lasting solutions that protect Nigeria’s water resources. As water scarcity and quality become increasingly pressing issues. The Esteemed contributor’s insights serve as a reminder that sustainable water management is not only feasible but essential for the country’s future.
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