FG Set to Commercialise River Basins, Says Minister

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city

The federal government has said it is set for the commercialisation of the 12 River Basin Development Authorities in order to enable them effectively deliver on their mandate to the people.

The Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, made the disclosure in Benin-city, Edo State, yesterday at a press briefing which formed part of activities of the ongoing 10th National Water Conference.

Represented by the Director, River Basin Operations and Inspection, Mr. John Ochigbo, Adamu also noted that commercialising the basins would enable them generate more revenue for the government.

While noting that the 12 river basins were almost in comatose before 2016, he said they have been repositioned for greater efficiency by having professionals manage their affairs.

The minister noted that the huge infrastructure available in the basins would guarantee return on investment for investors.

According to him, “The federal government has approved the commercialisation of the 12 River Basin Development Authorities to ensure that they have sustainable operations and management of their infrastructure.

“The basins have huge infrastructures like water supply schemes, dams and irrigation that require good funding to be able to keep them running and to provide dividend for Nigerians.

“We are inviting the private sector to key into this window of opportunity that has been provided for them.”

He further stated that as part of effort to reposition the basins, its agriculture mandate has been returned.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI), Prof Emmanuel Adanu, has called for the strengthening of the basins for optimal performance.

Adanu who bemoaned lack of realistic

data on the availability, accessibility and affordability of water in the country, called for effort to ensure sustainable management of water resources in the country.

He noted that the passage of the Water Resources Bill before the National Assembly is crucial in turning around the water sector of the country.