WaterAid says that a multistakeholder approach is required to engender the peace that water brings among communities.
Ms Evelyn Mere, Country Director, WaterAid, said this in her remarks to mark the 2024 Water Day Celebration held at Oregun Junior High School, Ikeja, on Friday in Lagos.
March 22 of every year is set aside to mark the World Water Day.
The theme of this year’s 2024 World Water Day is ” Water for Peace.”
Represented by Mr Kolawole Banwo. Head, Advocacy, Policy and Communications, WaterAid, Mere said that the 2024 theme “Water for Peace” focuses on recognising water as a tool for peace, showcasing effective mechanisms and tools to enhance cooperation and prevent water-related disputes through displaying the critical role water plays in the stability and prosperity of the world.
According to her. the water-related impacts of climate change are worsening thereby creating water pressure, as well as the growing population which is placing increasing demand on the finite resource.
She said that in Nigeria and across the globe, people’s access to safe drinking water was unevenly and unfairly distributed, adding that the situation threatens social, national and international stability.
“The goal is to work together to balance everyone’s needs, ensuring everyone, everywhere has sustainable access to improved Water, and to make water a catalyst for a more peaceful world.
‘Globally, 38 per cent of the rural population, and 19 per cent of the urban population lack a safely managed water service,” Mere said.
Earlier, Mrs Omowuni Ajimuda, Principal, Oregun Junior High School, welcomed WaterAid and its partners on behalf of staff and the students of the school.
Also, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Ali-Balogun expressed gratitude to WaterAid and its partners on their impact and intervention in schools in Lagos State.
Represented by Mr Olufemi Asaolu, Ali-Balogun said that Lagos remain a home for all.
He underscored the importance of water and clean environment for the well-being of the students, while urging the students to be good mangers of water
Also speaking, Mr Olakunle Adegbite, Permanent Secretary, Office of Water and Drainage Services, Ministry of the Environment, in his remarks noted that the 2024 world water Day is Water for Peace.
Represented by Mr James Oyedele, Adegbite said that Water could easily create peace or war, depending on its scarcity or availability.
He noted that Herders/ Farmers clash has been exercebated by the movement of Herders Southward in search of water.
Adegbite thanked WaterAid and it’s partners for what they are doing in the provision of WASH facilities for Lagos Schools.
He called for collaboration in the use of water.
The students of the school put up a drama session to underscore the importance of water to life.
The event was supported by PepsiCo Foundation and Cummins West Africa.
