Nestlé and Federal Government Launch National Water Quality Advocacy Handbook
Nestlé Nigeria Plc, in a strategic collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Organised Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), has officially launched a National Water Quality Advocacy Handbook. This initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with essential knowledge and actionable guidance to protect the quality of water used daily, marking a significant advancement in water safety and public health across the nation.
Handbook Unveiled at Annual Water Quality Conference
The handbook was introduced at the yearly Water Quality Conference, hosted by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in Abuja. It represents a key outcome of Nestlé Nigeria's national Water Quality Advocacy campaign, aimed at translating technical water safety principles into clear, practical steps for households, communities, policymakers, regulators, and industry practitioners.
According to a statement from Toritseju Egbebi, Corporate Affairs Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, the handbook outlines critical measures for identifying risks, ensuring safe handling and storage, applying household treatment methods, and protecting water sources at the community level. It emphasizes that water appearing clean may still harbor invisible contaminants, highlighting the importance of everyday behaviors in maintaining water safety.
Government and Corporate Leaders Emphasize Education and Action
Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, stressed the need for sustained public awareness and education to improve water quality outcomes in Nigeria. He stated, "Individuals and communities must be equipped with the knowledge to adopt safe practices and protect their health. The Water Quality Handbook is a crucial step in this effort, bringing water safety knowledge directly to communities and promoting responsible water use nationwide."
Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Managing Director Wassim Elhusseini, underscoring the company's long-term commitment to water stewardship. She explained, "Water is fundamental to life, public health, and economic development, and as a food and beverage company, it is integral to our value chain. Through our water business, we are dedicated to providing safe, high-quality water to consumers daily. This commitment extends beyond our operations to protecting shared water resources and enhancing access to safe water for communities. By leading this handbook's development with our partners, we are strengthening water quality standards and promoting safer practices for individuals and families."
Coordinated Efforts for Sustainable Water Solutions
Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, highlighted the importance of translating knowledge into consistent practice. He noted that improving water quality outcomes requires coordinated action across all stakeholders, from policy formulation to community-level implementation. "The handbook helps strengthen awareness, support community education, and identify gaps needing technical and financial support. At OPS-WASH, we remain committed to working with partners to advance integrated solutions that address water and sanitation challenges sustainably," he said.
Widespread Distribution and Community Engagement
To maximize impact, the handbook will be accessible through multiple channels, including digital downloads and physical distribution via government and community partners such as RUWASSA. A nationwide grassroots sensitization campaign will accompany this to drive understanding and adoption of safe water practices. Stakeholders, communities, and individuals are encouraged to download the handbook and engage their communities in adopting safer water practices, fostering a collective effort to prioritize water safety as a national concern.
