The House of Representatives Committee on Water Resources has resolved to undertake nationwide visits to ongoing dams and other irrigation projects to independently verify implementation progress.
Deputy chairman of the committee, Hon. Mukhtar Chawai disclosed this at a budget defence with the Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev in Abuja.
The committee reaffirmed its commitment to diligent oversight, stressing that effective water resources management remains critical to national development, agricultural productivity, climate resilience and improved public health outcomes.
It commended some milestones attained by the ministry but expressed concerns about the level of implementation of the 2025 budget, particularly capital projects.
The lawmakers requested detailed information on the specific locations of the facilities for verification and oversight purposes.
While presenting the N98billion proposed budget, the Minister, Prof. Joseph Utsev assured the committee that all outstanding projects would be awarded in the coming weeks and pledged improved execution henceforth.
In defending the 2026 budget proposal, Engr. Utsev explained that the allocation is focused primarily on completing ongoing dam and irrigation projects nationwide to boost agriculture and strengthen food security.
He noted that flood and drought mitigation measures also remain central to the ministry’s agenda, particularly in light of climate variability.
The minister further emphasised aggressive implementation of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programmes, including intensified efforts to end open defecation across the country.
He disclosed that 17 states are currently benefiting from the expansion of the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) and Partnership for Expanded Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) programmes.
Utsev further disclosed the completion of two national water quality reference laboratories located in Asaba and Umuahia, aimed at strengthening water safety monitoring and compliance nationwide.
In addition, he announced that 5,238 public sanitation facilities have been constructed across the country.
The minister also highlighted the expansion of climate-smart, renewable energy-powered micro irrigation schemes across several states and the establishment of Water Users Associations nationwide to promote sustainability and community ownership.
