The Minister of Water Resources, Mr Suleiman Adamu, on Thursday expressed hope over passage of the National Water Resources Bill before the National Assembly.
Adamu expressed the optimism while answering questions on sidelines of a two-day training for Water Resources Correspondents, Editors, and News Analysts in the Nigerian Water Sector’ with theme, ‘Reporting Water in its Perspective’.
The training is to build capacity of reporters on water resources sector by having deep knowledge of terminologies and issues in the water sector.
The Bill, which was introduced in the 8th Assembly, caused outrage as some Nigerians interpreted the law as a power grab by the federal Government.
“It is part of our roadmap as far as I am concerned. We will continue to engage with the National Assembly, now that they have come back from recess, we hope to engage.
“At the same time, we are talking to all other antagonists to allay the fears to accommodate whatever apprehension. We are very confident that we’ll get that bill passed,” the minister said.
He further stated that it was wrong for a section of Nigerians to completely criticize and condemn the whole Bill instead of pointing out areas that needs to be reconsidered.
“It doesn’t make sense if you have problem with the Bill; identify the key issue or problem if there is need for amendment instead to completely condemn just because of one or two items you are not satisfied with.
“In the National Assembly, you have public hearing, and we will still go back,” the minister said.
He pointed out that water resources sector over the years had been under-reported and underestimated, but with the training, Nigerians will know more and appreciate the water sector.
He also promised to support activities of the media and ensure it is carried along in policies and programmes by his Ministry.
NAN reports that the executive bill was introduced to the Senate on Nov. 3, 2017 and passed for second reading on Nov. 22, 2017.
It was introduced to the House of Representatives on May 4, 2017, and passed for second reading and third reading on July 6 and Dec. 19, respectively.
However, the Senate is yet to pass the Bill as some senators raised concerns on its provisions.
