Dr. Abdulmumini Zaria, the new Executive Director of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC), has promised to make community and household water supply the main focus of Nigeria’s water allocation policy.
He made this pledge on Monday at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja as he officially assumed duty. Zaria said industries and businesses can only succeed when people are healthy, and that begins with access to safe water at home and in communities.
“Water security is human security. Nobody can live with dignity without safe water. Domestic and community needs must come first before industrial and agricultural use. That is the only way to achieve sustainable development,” he explained.
Zaria outlined his three-point strategy for the commission. It will focus on transparent water allocation, stronger partnerships with the private sector and donors, and local solutions such as small dams, rainwater harvesting, and community-led projects—especially in rural and underserved areas.
He also promised a strong compliance system to protect water rights and support uses such as electricity generation, irrigation, gas, and mining. This will include stricter licensing, regular audits, inspections of industries and farms, and educating stakeholders through compliance forums.
“As a leader, I will lead from the front. We will not only enforce rules but also help industries and communities understand why compliance matters and how it benefits them. We will do this through open dialogue, continuous monitoring, and innovative solutions,” he said.
Zaria assured staff that he would prioritize their welfare, fair promotions, and training opportunities. He said his leadership would follow an open-door policy.
“The work we do here is not just a job; it is a national duty. Every action we take affects food security, public health, energy, and the economy for millions of Nigerians,” he stressed.
He promised to build on the achievements of the commission and work with all stakeholders to advance sustainable water management in Nigeria.
Zaria thanked President Bola Tinubu for trusting him with the appointment and appreciated the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, for his guidance. He also expressed gratitude to Kaduna Governor, Senator Uba Sani, whom he described as his mentor.
Earlier, the outgoing Acting Executive Director, Mrs. Sakinatu Abbo-Jimeta, thanked the minister, management, and staff for their support during her tenure. She said their cooperation made it possible to strengthen enforcement, promote sustainable water use, and engage stakeholders on important issues.
She described Zaria as a seasoned public servant with over 20 years of experience, who had contributed significantly to government policy implementation in the petroleum sector. She expressed confidence that the commission would grow stronger under his leadership.
Zaria’s Personal Assistant, Dr. Abdullahi Dangana, also spoke about his boss, saying he has always practiced people-centred leadership.
He recalled that Zaria, who worked for over 35 years in the oil and gas sector before retiring as General Manager, Human Resources, at NNPC Ltd, believes staff are the greatest asset of any organization.
According to Dangana, Zaria’s focus on welfare, morale, and productivity would inspire a renewed culture of excellence at the commission.
His appointment comes as the National Water Resources Bill is still before the National Assembly. The Bill seeks to create a comprehensive law for water regulation and fair access across the country. Stakeholders believe that once passed, the law will strengthen NIWRMC’s role and improve access to safe water for Nigerians.
