The Impending Water Crisis: A Call for Global Action and Local Responsibility
The global community faces a looming water crisis, driven by the escalating impacts of climate change. The urgency of this challenge was underscored by Ola Oresanya, the Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, during the 2025 World Water Day commemoration. Oresanya’s address emphasized the critical link between climate change, glacier preservation, and sustainable water management, highlighting the need for collective action to mitigate the far-reaching consequences of water mismanagement. He warned that the world is falling short of achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030. The theme of World Water Day 2025, "Glacier Preservation," serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of the global water cycle and the devastating consequences of glacial melt. Glaciers, vast reservoirs of freshwater, are melting at an alarming rate due to rising global temperatures. This phenomenon threatens coastal communities with rising sea levels, disrupts weather patterns, and exacerbates freshwater scarcity worldwide.
Oresanya underscored the gravity of the situation by explaining that glaciers, covering 10% of the Earth’s land surface, hold over 60% of the world’s freshwater. The complete melting of these icy giants would result in a catastrophic sea-level rise of up to 70 meters, inundating coastal regions and displacing millions. While Nigeria may not possess glaciers, the ripple effects of their depletion are already being felt. The country, particularly the Southwest region, grapples with increased flooding, prolonged dry seasons, diminished agricultural productivity, and escalating food insecurity – all clear indicators of climate change’s detrimental impact. Oresanya’s message serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing that climate change is not a distant threat but a present reality with tangible consequences.
The Ogun State government, recognizing the urgency, has implemented proactive measures to address water resource management challenges. Initiatives such as the Water Abstraction Scheme aim to monitor and regulate groundwater usage, ensuring its sustainable utilization. The Ogun State Water Corporation and other relevant agencies are actively working to expand access to clean and safe water while promoting environmentally friendly practices. These efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to safeguarding water resources and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. However, Oresanya stressed that the responsibility of water conservation does not rest solely on the government’s shoulders. He called for a collective effort, emphasizing that preserving water bodies, from glaciers to rivers and wetlands, is a shared responsibility. Every individual, business, and industry must contribute to reducing water waste and implementing efficient water management practices.
Oresanya’s call to action extends beyond immediate water conservation measures to encompass broader climate action strategies. He emphasized the importance of afforestation, carbon emission reduction, and the implementation of policies that protect the environment. Crucially, he stressed the need for community education on the dangers of climate change and the importance of water preservation. Raising awareness and empowering communities with knowledge is essential for fostering a culture of sustainability. This collective responsibility extends beyond individual actions to collaborative partnerships between government, industries, businesses, and individuals. By working together, we can effectively address the complex challenges of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for all.
The challenge of climate change and its impact on water resources requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes immediate actions to conserve water and reduce waste, as well as long-term strategies to mitigate climate change and adapt to its inevitable effects. Implementing sustainable water management practices in households, industries, and agriculture is crucial for reducing water consumption and minimizing environmental strain. Industries must adopt cleaner production processes and invest in water-efficient technologies. In agriculture, implementing water-saving irrigation techniques and promoting drought-resistant crops can significantly reduce water usage and enhance resilience to climate change. On a broader scale, investing in water infrastructure, such as reservoirs and water treatment plants, can ensure reliable access to safe and clean water.
Furthermore, addressing climate change requires global cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable land management practices are critical for mitigating the drivers of climate change. International agreements and frameworks, such as the Paris Agreement, provide a platform for collective action and knowledge sharing. However, the success of these agreements depends on the commitment and action of individual nations and their citizens. Adapting to the unavoidable impacts of climate change requires developing resilient infrastructure and implementing early warning systems for extreme weather events. Investing in research and development can lead to innovative solutions for water management and climate change adaptation. Ultimately, tackling the water crisis and mitigating the effects of climate change requires a fundamental shift in mindset and behavior. We must transition from a culture of consumption to one of conservation, valuing water as a precious resource and embracing sustainable practices in all aspects of our lives. This collective responsibility extends beyond national borders and necessitates international cooperation and shared commitment to protecting our planet for future generations.
