By; BAYO AKAMO Ibadan
Oyo State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Architect Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola has disclosed that the state government is set to revitalize water sources across the state.
Speaking at the 2024 World Water Day celebration, held at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Secretariat, Ibadan on Monday, he said the gesture is to improve the provision of potable water across Oyo State.
Architect Mogbonjubola while speaking on the theme for the year “Water for Peace,” at the world Water Day organized by the Ministry in collaboration with the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA) and UNICEF emphasised the importance of access to clean and safe water for human life.
Stressing the role water played in maintaining public health and preventing the spread of waterborne diseases, he reassured that the state government is committed to rehabilitating water sources across all regions of Oyo State, with a focus on ensuring equitable access to potable water.
A University Don from the Ajayi Crowther University, Dr. Ronald Anthony Isibor while presenting a paper highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to address water-related challenges and to promote water as a catalyst for peace and development.
Dr Isibor highlighted the potential risks associated with water scarcity, as health issues, poverty, and conflicts between communities.
Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, represented by the P.S. Service Matters, Mr. Paul Oyekunle, commended the organizers for choosing a timely and relevant theme for the event.
He called for sustainable management of water resources by residents
“When we manage our water resources, we are taking care of them for our future. We need to conserve our water such that it will not harm the environment, “he said.
The General Manager of RUWASSA, Mr Adeniyi Adeduntan in his remarks emphasized the importance of accessible water for supporting agriculture and maintaining sanitation standards.
UNICEF’s South West Field Officer, Mr. Johnson Monday, said the necessity of providing potable water as a fundamental service to protect vulnerable populations, especially children, from waterborne diseases.
He emphasized that access to clean water is critical for promoting peace and prosperity within communities.
