Minister Joseph Utsev of Water Resources and Sanitation in Nigeria issued a compelling call for immediate action against the mounting threats of climate change during a national workshop on climate action in Abuja. Utsev emphasized the urgency of collaborative efforts, stressing that climate change spares no nation and impacts various aspects of life, particularly the water sector.

Highlighting the vulnerability of water resources to climate change, Utsev pointed to rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and dwindling natural resources as key manifestations. He underscored the need for swift, decisive action, attributing climate change primarily to greenhouse gases and synthetic chemicals.

Drawing on Nigeria’s firsthand experiences, including devastating floods in recent years, Utsev emphasized the tangible reality of climate change. He called for engagement across governance levels and sectors, stressing the importance of involving stakeholders such as development partners and the private sector to develop comprehensive solutions.

Utsev highlighted the profound impact of climate change on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector, affecting not only human life but also economic growth, food security, and energy production. He urged workshop participants to approach the task with optimism and purpose, emphasizing the potential for positive change.