Borehole drillers want speedy passage of water resources bill

The Borehole Drillers’ Association of Nigeria has urged the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of Water Resources Management Bill into law, to stimulate effective management of the nation’s water resources.

President of the association, Mr. Francis Uzoma, said the bill, when passed and assented to by the President, would help to prioritise issues in the water resources sector through sound policies and programmes.

He appealed to stakeholders and all Nigerians to have faith in the bill as it is for the good He said: “The bill will create room for the private sector to come on board. It will also create employment opportunities for people. The National Water Resources Bill is consistent with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Land Use Act, and should not be politicised.”

The Minister of Water Resources, Mr. Suleiman Adamu, urged Nigerians and lawmakers to stop politicising the Water Resources Bill, saying the benefits were enormous and for public good.

He noted that the overall objective was geared towards efficient management of the water resources sector for the economic development of Nigeria and the well-being of its citizens.

Adamu added that that the bill, drafted in 2006, had passed through series of consultations among stakeholders up to 2008, since which time it received no priority attention.

The bill provides for professional and efficient management of all surface and ground water.