Stakeholders in Nigeria and across Africa have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other leaders at various levels to prioritize water quality in order to prevent millions from succumbing to waterborne and water-related diseases each year.
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Professor Charles Esimone, the former Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University; Dr. Chukwumezie Okolo, President of Rite Place Health; and Dr. Agnes Atim, a member of Uganda’s parliament, made this appeal during the second edition of the International Water Quality Conference held in Abuja on Thursday.
This plea comes in light of data from UNICEF and the World Bank, which indicates that waterborne diseases result in approximately 117,000 and 121,800 deaths annually in Nigeria, with over 500,000 deaths worldwide.
During the conference themed ‘Beyond Access, Quality Matters: Innovative Community-Based Approaches to Waterborne Disease Eradication,’ Prof. Esimone emphasized that while access to water remains a significant challenge in Nigeria and Africa, both government officials and citizens must focus on ensuring water quality.
He cautioned that neglecting water quality could exacerbate the ongoing water crisis in Nigeria and Africa.
“Every year, over 500,000 individuals die from diarrheal diseases associated with unsafe water, sanitation, and hygiene.
“In Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa carries the heaviest burden. In Nigeria alone, more than 60 million people still do not have access to clean water, and even in urban settings where access is available, the quality is often compromised due to outdated infrastructure, contamination, and insufficient regulation.
“The irony is that we frequently celebrate the installation of new boreholes, pipes, and treatment facilities. However, access without quality is merely an illusion.
“The solution is straightforward: we cannot maintain the status quo. If we do, the water crisis will worsen, and our children will bear the consequences.
“The vision is compelling: Picture a Nigeria where every village, town, and city can safely drink from the tap without fear. Imagine a future where…