Owerri:The Imo Government has begun the process to establish dedicated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) departments in its 27 Local Government Areas to maintain water infrastructure effectively.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Commissioner for Water Resources, Mr. Obinna Ogwuegbu, revealed this development during a stakeholders workshop in Owerri aimed at verifying and validating the proposed Scheme of Service for WASH officers. The initiative seeks to create a structured framework to protect and manage state investments, such as the Otamiri Water Works and rural solar-powered projects.
Ogwuegbu emphasized that merely having infrastructure is inadequate for sustainable services. Competent individuals and accountable institutions are crucial for managing boreholes and water schemes. Previously, WASH responsibilities were scattered across different units without a clear career structure for service delivery at the grassroots level.
He highlighted the importance of local governments possessing the technical capacity to plan, operate, and monitor water and sanitation facilities effectively. The exercise aims to establish the necessary institutional foundation to support investments in the WASH sector.
Ogwuegbu praised Governor Hope Uzodimma for his commitment to transforming the sector and mentioned that the validated recommendations would be presented for the governor’s approval. Participants were encouraged to develop a practical framework addressing staffing, career progression, and operational needs.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, stressed the critical role of safe water, sanitation, and hygiene in healthcare delivery and disease prevention. She noted that a robust local WASH system could reduce preventable illnesses like cholera and typhoid in rural areas, supporting a healthier population and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
Permanent Secretary, Chief Obilor Izuwa, explained that previously ad hoc committees hindered effective WASH service delivery. He noted that states like Katsina and Ogun have successfully upgraded their units, and Imo’s efforts would align with national practices.
Support for the reform was also expressed by Local Government Service Commission Chairman, Dr. Ebere Obinatu, and House of Assembly WASH Committee Chairman, Mr. Princewill Amuchie.