WorldStage Newsonline– As part of activities marking World Water Day, the Federal Government has commissioned a newly constructed solar-powered water facility at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Kubwa, Abuja.
The project, donated by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, is expected to provide thousands of Corps members with reliable access to clean water.
This initiative reinforces the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable water management and sanitation.
The commissioning ceremony was part of a series of events celebrating World Water Day, which commenced on March 21, 2025, with a sensitization walk from Eagle Square to the NTA Headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasized the importance of sustainable water management and highlighted the relevance of this year’s theme, “Glacier Preservation.”
While acknowledging that Nigeria does not have glaciers, Prof. Utsev pointed out that the consequences of glacial melt—such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and disruptions in the water cycle—have direct impacts on the country.
He expressed optimism that the newly commissioned water facility would not only improve access to clean water at the NYSC Camp in Kubwa but also promote better sanitation and hygiene practices. This aligns with the objectives of the Federal Government’s ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet’ campaign.
Prof. Utsev reaffirmed the government’s commitment to marking World Water Day by providing critical water infrastructure to communities in need. Recognizing the challenges of water supply in large camps, he noted that this project is part of a broader initiative to prioritize sustainable water management across the nation.
The Minister further called on all stakeholders—including government agencies, NYSC camp officials, and Corps members—to take ownership of the facility and use it responsibly, stressing that sustainable water management is a shared responsibility.
Earlier in his remarks, Brigadier General O. Nafiu, the Director-General of NYSC, represented by Deputy Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Alhaji Jikamshi Abdullahi, expressed deep gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation for the laudable initiative. He noted that the facility would significantly enhance living conditions at the camp.
He emphasized the importance of the project as a testament to effective collaboration between government agencies and its role in shaping Nigeria’s future leaders. The NYSC Director-General urged Corps members and camp officials to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the facility, reiterating that access to clean water is crucial for health, productivity, and sustainable development.
Also present at the commissioning ceremony were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, Directors and staff of the Ministry, key stakeholders in the water resources sector, top NYSC officials, and other senior government functionaries.
