By David Owei, Yenagoa.

Director of Hydrology and Head of Department of Hydrology & Blue Economy in the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority (NDBDA), Engr. Odes Solomon Sakawi, who also doubles as the team lead of the Waterways Sanitation Management Team of the authority has issued a clarion call for urgent action on glacier preservation in line with theme of World Water Day 2025.

Speaking with newsmen in Ekporoe community in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State on Saturday (World Water Day), Engr. Sakawi emphasized the critical importance of protecting glaciers, highlighting their role as massive freshwater reservoirs, supporting global food production, and underpinning various industries, ranging from agriculture, fishing and tourism.

Engr. Sakawi, representing the Managing Director of NDBDA, Hon. Prince Ebitimi Amgbare emphasized the urgent need for action on glacier preservation during the burial of the late mother of the former Minister of State for Water Resources, Hon. Precious Ngelale in Ekporoe. He noted that the theme of this year’s World Water Day, focusing on glacier preservation, makes the call to action timely and critical.

“Glacier melting leads to water scarcity, affecting human consumption, agriculture, and industry. Melting glaciers contribute to sea-level rise, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems. Glacier melting alters ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and extinction of plant and animal species.

“Glaciers act as massive freshwater reservoirs, supplying water to billions of people worldwide. Glaciers provide meltwater essential for irrigation, supporting global food production. Glaciers support various industries, such as hydroelectric power, tourism, and fishing.

“The effects of waterways sanitation on glacier preservation are intricate and multifaceted. Waterways sanitation is crucial for maintaining clean and healthy water sources. Glaciers are melting at an alarming rate due to climate change, and this process is primarily driven by rising global temperatures. Waterways sanitation can play a role in mitigating the effects of glacier melting.

“For instance, proper waterways sanitation can help reduce the amount of pollutants and sediments that enter waterways, which can in turn affect glacier health. Moreover, effective water management practices can help regulate water flows and reduce the risk of glacial lake outburst floods,” Engr. Sakawi stated.

While enumerating key factors affecting glacier preservation, he informed that effective water management could help regulate water flows and reduce the risk of glacial lake outburst floods, lamenting that: “while water is the lifeblood of our planet, yet millions around the world, including those in developed nations, struggle to access clean, safe water.”

World Water Day is observed on March 22 to raise awareness of the value of freshwater and the necessity of its sustainability management techniques. It inspires us to take action and make a difference.

The Department of Hydrology & Blue Economy in the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of the Niger Delta region.

The department is responsible for developing and managing surface and underground water resources in the Niger Delta region. It collects data on water levels, flow, rainfall, and wind, which helps in planning and management of water resources.

It also monitors and evaluates water quality to prevent pollution and ensure safe water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use while developing and maintaining irrigation infrastructure to support agricultural development in the region.

The department works to prevent and control flooding in the Niger Delta region, which helps to protect lives, property, and the environment. It promotes the development of the blue economy in the Niger Delta region, including sustainable use of marine resources, tourism, and other economic activities.

The Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, led by Hon. Prince Ebitimi Amgbare plays a vital role in promoting sustainable water management practices and environmental conservation in the Niger Delta region.

By highlighting the critical importance of glacier preservation, Engr. Sakawi’s message serves as a powerful reminder of the need for concerted efforts to protect these vital natural resources and ensure a water-secure future for generations to come.