From Raji Bello, Sokoto
The Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Reng Ochekpe has asserted that the federal government has done much in improving both water and energy sector in the country.
Speaking at the 5th National Water Conference, held in Sokoto yesterday, the Minister noted that both water and energy sectors received the highest attention of President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
She added that since the ministry was re-established in April 2010, it has propelled several policy initiatives towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.
According to the Minister, the ministry has also focused on implementation of the Water Sector Transformation Agenda which centered on the provision of sustainable access to safe and sufficient water.
Her words: “As a consequence, the critical areas of life relating to public health food security, and employment generation were enhanced. Additional, the integrity of freshwater ecosystems was accorded the required attention to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure environmental sustainability.”
She also revealed that in the last four years, the WWministry has completed the construction of 37 dams of various sizes rehabilitated 10 dams while the construction works on 149 dams of various capacities are ongoing across the country.
“Out of the 37 completed dams, 16 are with hydropower potentials capable of generating 135.15 megawatts of electricity”, Sarah added.
In his welcome address, the Executive Director, National Water Resources Institute (NWRI), Dr. Olusanjo Bamgboye said the 3-day conference would envisage among others the impact of demography and economy on energy water demands as well as addressing the economic and financial aspect of water and energy.
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