Ibadan: Stakeholders have identified inefficiency, poor coordination, and inadequate monitoring as significant factors affecting water policies in Nigeria. These concerns were raised during a Stakeholders Validation Workshop and Capacity Needs Assessment on Integrating Gender in Nigeria's Water Sector Policies and Governance.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the workshop, organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), drew participants including researchers, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civil Society Organizations, and government officials from the Oyo State Women Affairs Ministry and Ministry of Environment, among others. Ms. Sarah Appiah, a Research Officer with IWMI, emphasized the need to update and review various policies in Nigeria's water sector, with a strong emphasis on integrating gender considerations to address socio-economic issues.
Appiah highlighted the necessity for strategic approaches in policy design, implementation, and monitoring to ensure water accessibility and availability for all Nigerians. She called for governments at all levels to address policy gaps and ensure proper implementation, monitoring, and funding.
Dr. Adepeju Badmus, an Agricultural Economist at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), noted that women in Nigeria face significant challenges in accessing water, particularly during menstrual periods and childbearing. Badmus stressed the critical role of water in the lives of both men and women, highlighting the disproportionate impact on women when water is not readily available.
Mr. Adegoke Ayodele, Director at the Oyo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (Oyo RUWASSA), acknowledged ongoing challenges in accessing potable water in the state and affirmed the government's commitment to addressing these issues. Similarly, Mrs. Shontonwa Roagess, Director of Quality Control at the Oyo State Water Corporation, emphasized the importance of effectively implementing water policies and involving women in the process to improve water availability.
The workshop also featured an overview of policy innovation initiatives and a summary of a flagship report on policy coherence, presented by Dr. Charity Osei-Amponsah of IWMI.