NIHSA seeks partnership with Portugal to enhance water resources management

By Ibraheem Hamza Muhammad

Architect Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, Director General of Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, (NIHSA) seeks partnership opportunities with Portugal to Enhance Water Resources Management

He made the statement when he paid a courtesy visit to the Portuguese Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Paulo Martins Santos, at the Portuguese Embassy in Abuja.

According to him, the meeting was centered around exploring potential areas of collaboration to enhance water resources management and strengthen the processes of NIHSA.

Architect Mohammed said, “The need for synergy between NIHSA and Portugal in key areas such as capacity building, the provision of modern equipment, and promoting good governance in water management.

“The agency’s keen interest in leveraging international partnerships to improve the efficiency of its operations and address the country’s water-related challenges.” He said.

In his remarks, Director of Hydro-Geophysics, Stephen Jabo, provided a comprehensive overview of NIHSA’s mandate, highlighting the agency’s critical role in water resources management and its ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity in Nigeria.

In his response, Ambassador Paulo Martins Santos expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about NIHSA’s work and the significant role it plays in Nigeria’s water management sector.

The Ambassador said, “Both Portugal and Nigeria share common challenges, particularly with transboundary rivers and desertification, and that there is ample room for collaboration.

“I suggest potential areas for partnership, including agriculture, dam management, renewable energy, and disaster reduction.” He said.

Ambassador Santos assured the Director General that he would report the discussions to Portugal, underscoring the potential for future cooperation.

He also expressed interest in exploring ways to strengthen the ties between the two nations, particularly in areas related to sustainable water resources management.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further dialogue and collaboration to create meaningful partnerships that will benefit both nations in addressing the shared challenges of water management and environmental sustainability.