Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun has assured residents of a sustainable water supply in the coming months.

Mr Abiodun gave this assurance at the Ogun World Water Day (OGWWD) 2025 event organised to commemorate Global Water Day on Tuesday in Abeokuta.

World Water Day, observed annually on March 22, aims to highlight the importance of freshwater and advocate for its sustainable management.

The 2025 OGWWD was organised by the Ogun Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, and Ogun State Water Corporation.

It had the theme; “Glacier Preservation: Synergy for a Resilient Water Future.”

The governor emphasised the vital role of water in sustaining life, ecosystems, human and animal health, agriculture, industry, and climate regulation.

Represented by the state Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Dapo Okubadejo, the governor stated that he had recently visited the Oyan River Dam to explore its hydropower generation potential.

“The Oyan River Dam, located in Abeokuta North Local Government Area, will be properly harnessed to ensure a clean, potable, and safe water supply,” he said.

Mr Abiodun further noted that his administration would increase investment in water distribution.

However, he acknowledged that some areas might not receive direct supply immediately.

“In such areas, we will construct water kiosks and encourage short-distance water transportation to ensure equitable distribution to all residents, farms, and industries,” Mr Abiodun said.

The governor also stated that while water supply was a social service, industries, residents, farmers, and other users must pay their water bills moving forward.

Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya highlighted the absence of glaciers in Nigeria and the impact of climate change on freshwater resources.

“Glacier depletion due to climate change is a major concern, causing extreme weather conditions and disruptions in freshwater availability,” he said.

He urged residents and businesses to collaborate with the government to achieve sustainable water goals.

He also noted ongoing partnerships with international agencies, private sector players, and research institutions to strengthen government efforts.

The Special Adviser on SDGs and Water Resources, Damilola Otunbanjo, commended Mr Abiodun for supporting the state water corporation.

However, she revealed a significant decline in active customers, saying the number of active customers of the state water corporation had dropped from 10,000 to 4,000.

Ms Otunbanjo lamented the decline in the corporation’s revenue to ₦25 million per month and called for increased support and patronage to revive and sustain the state’s water supply system.

(NAN)