World Water Day 2026: FENRAD calls for urgent action to protect water resources, ensure equitable access

Nkem Ukaegbu, Umuahia

Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) has called for urgent and coordinated action to address Nigeria’s worsening water crisis, as the global community marks World Water Day 2026.

In a statement issued on Sunday, signed by the organization’s Executive Director, Com. Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, they emphasized that the annual observance serves as a critical reminder of the indispensable role water plays in sustaining life, ecosystems, and livelihoods, while drawing attention to the growing challenges surrounding water access, quality, and management.

FENRAD noted that despite water being universally recognized as a fundamental human right, millions of Nigerians, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, continue to struggle with acute water scarcity, unsafe drinking sources, and inadequate sanitation infrastructure.

The group attributed the situation to a combination of factors, including climate change, environmental degradation, weak governance, and the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources.

It warned that without immediate intervention, the country risks facing more severe public health crises, food insecurity, and economic setbacks.

Expressing deep concern, FENRAD highlighted the increasing pollution of Nigeria’s water bodies, citing industrial discharge, oil spills, poor waste management practices, and rapid urbanization as major contributors.

According to the organization, the degradation of rivers, streams, and groundwater systems poses a direct threat to human health and environmental sustainability.

To address these challenges, FENRAD called on the Federal and State Governments, as well as relevant agencies and stakeholders, to adopt a multi-pronged approach to water governance and management.

The organization urged authorities to strengthen water governance systems by implementing transparent, accountable, and inclusive policies that prioritize sustainability and community participation.

It also stressed the need for increased investment in water infrastructure, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities, through the development of sustainable water supply systems.

FENRAD further advocated targeted budgetary provisions aimed at improving access to potable water for women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.

Such investments, it said, should include borehole projects, solar-powered water schemes, water harvesting systems, and community-managed facilities, backed by strong monitoring and accountability frameworks.

On environmental protection, the group called for stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent pollution of water sources and ensure that offenders are held accountable.

It also emphasized the importance of integrating climate adaptation strategies into water resource management to mitigate the impacts of droughts, flooding, and other climate-related risks.

In addition, FENRAD underscored the need for sustained public awareness campaigns to promote water conservation, hygiene, and sanitation practices among citizens.

While placing responsibility on government and institutions, the organization also urged Nigerians to play their part by adopting water-saving habits, protecting local water sources, and advocating for better water governance at all levels.

“Water is life, and its preservation is a shared responsibility,” the statement read, reaffirming the group’s commitment to environmental justice and sustainable development.

FENRAD reiterated its dedication to championing policies and actions that guarantee equitable access to clean water for all, especially women and vulnerable populations who bear the greatest burden of water scarcity.

The organization concluded with a call for collective action, stressing that safeguarding water resources today is essential to securing a sustainable future for generations to come.