The federal government through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation is set to collaborate with the Nigerian Association of Hydrogeologists (NAH) to strengthen groundwater mapping and ensure accurate data collection for sustainable national development.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof Joseph Utsev, disclosed this when the president of the Nigerian Association of Hydrogeologists, Mrs. Fashe-Adam Francisca, and her delegation paid him a courtesy visit Friday in Abuja.
The minister said the proposed collaboration would enhance the effective regulation of water schemes being implemented by individuals, communities, and the government at all levels, while promoting sustainable groundwater development and management across the country.
Prof. Utsev commended the association for its contributions to groundwater exploration, management, protection and advocacy over the years.
He emphasised that the Ministry remained committed to partnering with relevant professional bodies to strengthen the water resources sector and improve service delivery to Nigerians.
Earlier, Mrs. Fashe-Adam said the visit was to formally introduce the newly elected leadership of the association and express appreciation to the Ministry for its continued commitment to water resources development and food security in the country.
She noted that the association, comprising registered hydrogeologists, researchers, academics and industry professionals operating across the 36 states and the FCT had remained at the forefront of groundwater exploration, management, protection, policy formation and public advocacy.
She specifically sought the Ministry’s partnership in the areas of technical collaboration on nationwide groundwater mapping and hydrogeological data collection for the production of reliable groundwater maps, the inclusion of NAH-certified hydrogeologists in the Ministry’s projects and national assignments.
The association also sought the participation of the minister at its forthcoming Annual General meeting and international conference.