In a major step toward ensuring safer and more sustainable water access, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation (FMWRS) has announced a strategic partnership with Nestlé Nigeria to promote nationwide Water Quality Management Campaigns. The collaboration supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in addressing water-related public health and environmental challenges.
The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, disclosed the partnership during a courtesy visit by Nestlé Nigeria’s delegation and members of the Organized Private Sector in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (OPS-WASH) to his office in Abuja. The team was led by Nestlé Nigeria’s Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead, Victoria Uwadoka.
The announcement was contained in a press statement issued on Friday by Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry.
Highlighting the urgency of efficient water resource management, Prof. Utsev emphasized the need to combat preventable diseases such as cholera and diarrhea, and mitigate the impacts of flooding through improved water quality systems. He pledged the Ministry’s full backing for Nestlé’s advocacy campaign.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering safe water to every Nigerian. Nestlé’s initiative aligns with our mission to safeguard public health and promote water security through sustainable practices,” the Minister stated.
Also speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, lauded Nestlé Nigeria’s efforts and reiterated the government’s support for the initiative.
Victoria Uwadoka, representing Nestlé Nigeria, stressed the importance of raising public awareness about water quality, noting that the appearance of water is not always an indication of safety.
“Not all clear water is clean. Poor water quality remains a significant contributor to waterborne diseases. Through our National Water Quality Advocacy Campaign, we aim to educate, engage, and drive collective action toward sustainable water use and protection,” Uwadoka said.
She explained that the campaign focuses on three strategic pillars: raising awareness and educating the public, engaging key stakeholders, and driving sustainable interventions at the community level.
Providing further insight, Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, emphasized that the initiative extends beyond routine corporate social responsibility.
“This is about long-term water rehabilitation and impact. In Abaji Area Council of the FCT, 16 communities will benefit from the program, while 8 communities in Agbara, Ogun State, are also targeted. Additionally, two farming communities will benefit from water harvesting systems to support irrigation,” Dr. Igwe explained.
Mrs. Elizabeth Ugoh, Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation, noted that a baseline water quality report currently being compiled would strengthen the technical foundation for the collaboration with Nestlé Nigeria.
Also present were key directors from the Ministry, including Mr. Babarinde Segun Mukaila, Director of Water Supply; Engr. Adeyinka Adenopo, Director of Planning and Technical Support Services; Habu Jamilu, mni, and Ibiyemi Olu-Daniels, both Directors in the Department of Water Quality Control and Sanitation; and Chucks Mbaike, Director of Special Duties.
