ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Peter Mbah on Mainstream Media, Dan Nwomeh, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to ensure access to clean water for every household in the State.
Speaking at the inaugural CSO/Media Exchange, a collaborative effort between the Network of Water Rights Initiative, the Global Society for Anti-corruption, the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and the Media Unit at Government House, Enugu, Nwomeh underscored the governor’s earlier promise to deliver water within 180 days.
Remarkably, he said the governor has stayed true to his word, with ongoing efforts to replace aging water pipes across various parts of the state to facilitate universal access to potable water.
Despite encountering challenges, particularly with over 200 houses illegally encroaching on water lines, he said Governor Mbah has opted for innovative solutions rather than demolishing structures.Â
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Nwomeh speaking in commoreation of the International world water day 2024 with the Theme Water for Peace, emphasized the governor’s tireless dedication to overcoming obstacles, ensuring that water reaches every corner of the state.
“These houses were built illegally and the Governor said he cannot demolish the buildings rather than find an auternative ways of solving the water problems in the areas.Â
“As a result of this hinderance, water cooperation does not have capacity to do so many things that they need to do but this will not stop us from providing water to every homes in the state as the Governor is working day and night to ensure that water are made available in all nooks and crannies of the state,” he saidÂ
In her address, the coordinator of the Network of Water Rights Initiative, Ambassador Amaka Nweke, highlighted the transformative potential of investing in water infrastructure and technology.
She also emphasized the vital role of water in fostering peace and unity globally, urging collective action to address water-related challenges and promote stability.
Nweke’s call to action resonated deeply, as she urged stakeholders to prioritize sustainable water management practices and equitable distribution.
She commended Governor Mbah’s administration for its proactive measures, including the ongoing installation of modern ductile pipes to replace outdated infrastructure, thus enhancing water transportation efficiency.
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As discussions unfolded, participants echoed a shared vision of ending water scarcity in Enugu, expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts and commitment to lasting results. With Enugu poised to emerge as a beacon of water sustainability, the resolve to ensure access to clean water for all remains unwavering.
She said, “As we gather here on this World Water Day 2024, to mark the maiden edition of the CSO/media exchange, which is aimed to foster a deep understanding of water related issues, promote peace building initiatives, and strengthen collaboration between media practitioners and civil society organizations in ending water scarcity, we reflect on the profound role that water plays in fostering peace and unity across the globe.Â
“Water, the source of life, transcends borders and binds us together in our shared dependence on this precious resource. It is incumbent upon us to recognize the interconnectedness of water and peace, for where there is access to clean water, there is a foundation for stability and cooperation.
“In countless regions, water scarcity exacerbates tensions and fuels conflicts. Today, let us commit to transforming water from a potential source of contention into a catalyst for cooperation. By prioritizing sustainable water management practices and fostering equitable distribution, we can mitigate conflicts rooted in water scarcity and pave the way for peaceful coexistence. Moreover, investing in water infrastructure and technology can empower communities, laying the groundwork for prosperity and harmony.
“Let this World Water Day be a call to action a call to prioritize water as a cornerstone of global peace. As we work collectively towards ensuring access to clean water for all, we build bridges that transcend political and cultural divides. Together, let us pledge to be stewards of this invaluable resource, recognizing that the path to peace flows through the sustainable management of our shared waters.
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“We will not fail to recognize what the administration of His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State Gov. Peter Mbah is doing to end water scarcity in Enugu. We appreciate the fact that Enugu can boast of having 120 million litres of water per day. We also have seen the ongoing fixing of modern new ductile pipes to replace the age long asbestos pipes to enable hitch free transportation or reticulation of water to our homes.
“Thank you, as we look forward to the end of water scarcity in Enugu. Thank you all for honouring our invitation. As we discussed further, may it bear lasting and sustainable results.”