Abuja: The Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN) has initiated a review of its strategic plan to bolster its role in promoting universal access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services throughout Nigeria. This effort was the central theme of discussions at the opening of a three-day Review and Development of NEWSAN Strategic Plan and Capacity Building on WASH Advocacy in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Priscilla Achakpa, Secretary of NEWSAN’s Board, emphasized that the exercise marked a pivotal moment for the network, which has seen significant growth in scope and influence since its founding 22 years ago. The review of the 2020-2025 plan aims to create a forward-thinking roadmap addressing emerging development priorities, including climate change, equity, and sustainability in the WASH sector.
Dr. Achakpa noted the importance of grounding the new plan in evidence and aligning it with global trends. She stressed the need for strategic advocacy and partnerships to reinforce NEWSAN’s position as a leading civil society voice in the WASH and climate resilience agenda. The secretary also highlighted the importance of conducting analyses to identify strengths, opportunities, and key partnerships, showcasing NEWSAN’s work on both national and global stages.
Mr. Leo Atakpu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, praised NEWSAN’s growth from an initial six states to its current presence in 33 states across Nigeria. He traced the network’s roots to the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) and highlighted its achievements in advocating for WASH, including supporting Nigeria in achieving its first Open Defecation Free Local Government Areas in Cross River and Benue states.
Atakpu identified challenges in the WASH sector, such as limited funding, weak coordination, data gaps, and the impacts of climate change. He emphasized the need for the network to remain a movement driving transformative change for water, sanitation, and hygiene rights.
NEWSAN National Coordinator, Mr. Attah Benson, described the meeting as a critical moment for the organization and the WASH sector in Nigeria. He underscored the opportunity the review provides to reflect on NEWSAN’s journey, measure its impact, and set a new agenda for the future. Benson encouraged the development of a dynamic strategy addressing climate change, population growth, and public health crises with innovation and inclusion.
Representatives from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Federal Ministry of Environment commended NEWSAN for its leadership and sustained efforts to improve access to safe water and sanitation. They reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration with civil society and stakeholders to promote climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable WASH initiatives.
The review meeting aims to produce NEWSAN’s new 10-year strategic plan, outlining priorities for 2025-2035 in alignment with national development frameworks and global climate resilience goals.