The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, has warned residents against the mismanagement of water resources, saying it poses great threat to achieving Sustainable Development Goals 6.
The commissioner made the warning on Tuesday, while speaking at the 2025 World Water Day Celebration held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta.
DAILY POST reports that the Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6), aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by the year 2030.
Oresanya pointed out that this year’s event themed ” Glacier Preservation: Synergy for a resilient water future” was appropriate and urged for a stronger dedication to environmental sustainability and effective water resource management in order to combat the consequences of climate change.
According to him, the current geological survey reports that glaciers and ice caps hold about 60% of the world’s fresh water, and if all land ice melted, sea levels would increase by over 70 meters worldwide.
Oresanya noted that while Ogun State and Nigeria presently do not have glaciers, the impact of their depletion due to climate change is a matter of great concern, calling on industries, businesses, and individuals to work with the government in achieving these goals.
His words, “Here in the Southwestern region, we are already experiencing increased flooding, prolonged dry seasons, and reduced agricultural productivity, food insecurity—clear signals that climate change is affecting our common environment.
“The preservation of our water bodies—whether they are glaciers, rivers, or wetlands—is a collective responsibility.
As we commemorate this day, let us take proactive steps to promote sustainable water management by adopting conservation practices, reducing waste, and ensuring efficient water usage in industries, households, and agriculture.
“We must strengthen climate action by supporting afforestation, reducing carbon emissions, and implementing policies that protect our natural environment. We must continue to educate our communities on the impact of climate change and the importance of water preservation.
Meanwhile, the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, represented by Commissioner for Finance Dapo Okubadejo, emphasized that the present administration would continue to prioritize rural communities and awareness programs in achieving a sustainable water future while addressing water challenges in the state.
Also, the Commissioners for Special duties, Mrs Funmi Efuwape and her rural development counterpart, Mrs Olufemi ilori-Oduntan, in their goodwill messages urged stakeholders to intensify efforts on climate adaptation, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on SDGs and Water Resources, Engineer Damilola Otubanjo highlighted the state’s efforts to provide affordable and accessible water supply to all residents, in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.