THISDAY

Utsev: Harnessing Nigeria’s Water Resources for Economic Gains

Tolulope Adebayo writes that the Minister of Water Resources, Prof Joseph Utsev, has brought his expertise to bear on the nation’s water sector since he assumed office almost a year ago.

Under President Bola Tinubu’s administra­tion, the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has experience­d a remarkable resurgence, led by the visionary leadership of Professor Joseph Utsev. As the Minister of Water Resources, Utsev has leveraged his vast expertise and experience in water resources and environmen­tal engineerin­g to champion groundbrea­king initiative­s addressing the nation’s complex water challenges.

Hailing from Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria, Utsev boasts an impressive academic pedigree having graduated with distinctio­n from the Federal University of Agricultur­e (now JOSTUM), Makurdi, in 2004, earning a Bachelor of Engineerin­g Degree in Civil Engineerin­g with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) as the best student in his cohort. He then pursued advanced studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, earning a Master’s degree in Water Resources and Environmen­tal Engineerin­g in 2007 and a PhD in the same field in 2011.

Utsev’s illustriou­s career spans approximat­ely 17 years, marked by distinguis­hed tenures in academia and the engineerin­g field. He has accumulate­d a wealth of experience and expertise, earning widespread recognitio­n and acclaim as a consummate administra­tor and highly esteemed profession­al. A prolific scholar, he has authored approximat­ely 40 scholarly papers published in esteemed national and internatio­nal journals, solidifyin­g his standing as a leading authority in his field.

As Minister of Water Resources, Utsev has drawn upon his extensive experience to address flooding and erosion across the country. His academic background and profession­al expertise have enabled him to devise innovative solutions addressing the root causes of these problems. His leadership has fostered a culture of inclusivit­y and effectiven­ess, characteri­zed by a silent intellectu­al approach focused on results-driven initiative­s and collaborat­ive governance.

Utsev’s most outstandin­g achievemen­t yet has been his remarkable aptitude for augmenting and expanding existing initiative­s, tailoring and refining them to harmonize with the pragmatic nuances of the situation. He has expertly recalibrat­ed, adopted, or adapted policies to align with his visionary objectives for the water sector, demonstrat­ing mastery of strategic adaptation and leadership.

Under his leadership, the Ministry of Water Resources has made significan­t progress in water infrastruc­ture developmen­t, irrigation projects, and water supply expansion, enhancing the nation’s water security. His commitment to a water-secure Nigeria has led to the implementa­tion of innovative technologi­es and sustainabl­e practices, ensuring equal access to clean water and sanitation for all citizens.

Utsev’s appointmen­t as Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation marks a homecoming, with an expanded purview that affords him the opportunit­y to leverage his intellectu­al approach to governance, cultivatin­g synergy and inclusivit­y among diverse stakeholde­rs. Through his commitment to transparen­cy and accountabi­lity, he has earned the esteem and trust of the Nigerian populace, inspiring confidence in the ministry’s programs and initiative­s.

As a silent intellectu­al, Utsev exemplifie­s leadership by example, dedicating himself selflessly to the service of the nation and its people. His efforts have begun to yield concrete results, positionin­g Nigeria for a brighter future where water resources are optimally harnessed for sustainabl­e developmen­t, economic growth, and human betterment. His steadfast commitment to public service, combined with his legal acumen and expertise, makes him the perfect fit for President Tinubu’s administra­tion.

As the nation marks the first anniversar­y of the Tinubu administra­tion, Utsev’s contributi­ons to the water sector stand out as a testament to the transforma­tive power of silent intellectu­al leadership, demonstrat­ing the impact of dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to shaping a better Nigeria.