National Sensitization Workshop On Security and Prevention Of Vandalization Of Hydrological Equipment/ Stations, held at Villa Toscana Hotels Ltd. Enugu, Enugu State.

National Sensitization Workshop On Security and Prevention Of Vandalization Of Hydrological Equipment/ Stations,  held  at Villa Toscana Hotels Ltd. Enugu, Enugu State.

The aim of the Workshop was to reiterate the importance of Hydrological data in water resources planning and management. Also to engage stakeholders, water users, policy and decision makers, host communities and guage readers on the need to secure the primary source of data.

The Permanent Secretary, FMWR, Mrs Walson Didi Jack, mni, representing the Honourable Minister, FMWR, Engr Suleiman Adamu, FNSE FAEng at the occasion, said in her remark that Hydrological inputs to other sections of the economy is crucial, including it’s contributions to research, infrastructural development, productivity and food security. Recognizing this, she said the ministry has over the years reiterated the positive correlation between availability of reliable data and successful planning and implementation of Water Resources Projects.

Mrs Jack said, despite the obvious advantage, there is growing evidence that Hydrological network are in decline due to vandalism. However preventing the vandalism of these equipment will contribute to the effort of mitigating flood disasters and provision of necessary data for integrated Water Resources Management. Hence there is need for concerted efforts by the key players in the water sector to join hands to reduce the incidence of vandalism of equipments.

The Perm. Sec. commended the management and staff of Nihsa for organizing the workshop, she stressed the need for the populace to protect the equipment on major rivers system within their respective villages and communities for the betterment of the country at large.

The Director General Engr Clement Nze, in his welcome address, reiterated the aim of the workshop, and the need to protect and secure, Hydrological stations. He noted the limited Hydrological Stations to meet the recommended density for Nigeria by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), handicapped by limited funding.
Furthermore he said, reliable Hydrological and Meteorological data is needed to surpress the challenge, protect lives and properties of people from disaster.

The DG on a final note said, he looked forward to a meaningful and active participation of the distinguished guests at the workshop.

Also present at the occasion was the Representative of the Governor of Enugu State, the host state, Mr Ozoemina Nnamdi. Delivering goodwill message, he expressed gratitude to Nihsa for bringing the sensitization workshop to the South- East. Others include, the Rep. of the DG, NWRI Kadunna, Dr Michael Nwude, Rep of Nihsa Governing Board, Dr Omogbemi Yaya, Hon.comm. Anambra State min.of Environment, Mr Edochie Joseph, Directors from the FMWR, NSCDC Commandant, Mr Orji Ogbu, Hon.comm.of Water Resources Ebonyin State, Hon Igwe Ebi Gabriel, NEMA, SEMA, Royal Fathers and host of other distinguished guests.

Mrs Omolara Idowu, Dir. Admin and Finance, giving the vote of thanks appreciated the Honourable Minister for Water Resources Engr Suleiman Adamu, FNSE FA Eng and the Permanent Secretary FMWR, Mrs Walson Didi Jack for making the workshop a reality.
She on behalf of the Agency also appreciated Engr Nze, the DG, for his remarkable leadership in charting a new path for nihsa. All the distinguished guests were not left behind as everyone was appreciated for honouring the invitation.
She wished everyone a fruitful week and traveling mercies back to destinations.

Mrs Lauretta Samuel
Head Press and Public Relations Unit
19/11/2020.