The deputy chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Water Resources, Olubukola Oyewo has called for the regulation of water in the country for effective and efficient management.
The lawmaker made the call in Benin on Tuesday at the 10th National Water Conference, whose theme is “Sustainable Water Resources Development and Management.”
He regretted that the nation’s abundant water resources are not being harnessed and effectively managed for the good of the people.
He described the theme of the conference as apt, considering the increase in awareness on the need for sustainable development of water resources for various purposes, including agricultural and domestic uses.
“Let me commend the organisers of this conference for their commitment and zeal to develop an acceptable road map for water resources management in our country.
“Regrettably, our problem has been effective management of these resources for our benefit.
“I have the hope that this conference will address all the various challenges militating against proper management and harnessing of our God-given resources.”
Oyewo assured of the readiness and commitment of the 9th Assembly to pass the National Water Resources Bill for the overall interest of the people.
“Therefore, I urge all the stakeholders in the water sector to intensify efforts in enlightening the populace on the need for the regulation of our water resources as it is the case in other sectors of the economy.
“I urge the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to deepen its efforts in public enlightenment campaigns in this regard. This will in no small measure clarify the doubt and misconceptions about the bill,” he stated.
The three-day conference which opened on Tuesday, is expected to end on Friday.
