The Federal Government, in partnership with Nestlé Nigeria Plc, has launched a National Water Quality Advocacy Handbook as part of efforts to improve water safety and public health across the country.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Organised Private Sector in Water Sanitation and Hygiene, was unveiled at the Annual Water Quality Conference in Abuja.
Officials described the handbook as a key step in a broader national campaign to strengthen water quality standards and raise public awareness. It is designed to simplify technical water safety concepts and provide practical guidance for households, communities, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
Practical Tools for Safer Water
According to organisers, the handbook offers step-by-step guidance on identifying risks in water sources, safe handling and storage practices, and basic household water treatment methods. It also highlights the dangers of assuming that clear-looking water is safe, warning that contaminants may still be present.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, described the initiative as a significant move towards improving national water outcomes.
He stressed that sustained public education is critical to changing behaviour at the grassroots level, where water is most frequently used and consumed. Empowering communities with knowledge, he said, would help reduce the incidence of water-related diseases.
Private Sector Commitment
Representing the Managing Director of Nestlé Nigeria, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Victoria Uwadoka, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to water stewardship.
She noted that while maintaining high-quality water is essential to Nestlé’s operations, the company also prioritises protecting shared water resources and supporting communities in accessing safe water.
“The handbook reflects a collaborative effort to improve water quality nationwide and promote safer practices among households,” she said.
Call for Multi-Sector Collaboration
Also speaking, the National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, Nicholas Igwe, emphasised the importance of coordinated action among government, private sector, and community stakeholders.
He said improving water quality in Nigeria requires alignment between policy, technical solutions, and grassroots implementation. The handbook, he added, would help raise awareness, identify gaps, and mobilise support to address ongoing water and sanitation challenges.
Nationwide Rollout
Stakeholders revealed that the handbook will be distributed through both digital and physical channels, including partnerships with community-based organisations such as Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agencies. A nationwide sensitisation campaign is also planned to encourage adoption of safe water practices.
With millions of Nigerians still facing challenges related to water access and quality, the initiative is expected to play a vital role in promoting healthier communities and reducing waterborne diseases.
Organisers have urged citizens, community leaders, and institutions to actively engage with the handbook and incorporate its recommendations into daily practices, reinforcing water safety as a national priority.
