Nigeria and the Hungarian government have renewed their commitment to effective water management and research in addressing water-related challenges and ensuring sustainable development.
Alhaji Bello Goronyo, the Minister of state for Water Resources and Sanitation, said this when he hosted the Honorary Consul-General of Hungary, Mr Endre Deri, and his team during a courtesy visit on Thursday.
Goronyo said such partnerships could lead to innovative solutions and improved access to clean water for communities in need.
He recalled the previous agreements between the ministry and the Hungarian Ministry of Interior and University of Public Service, which were aimed at establishing a framework for cooperation in Water Management.
While revealing that these efforts were interrupted by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, he added that two sets of trainings were already accomplished, one in Nigeria and the other in Hungary.
He emphasised the importance of revisiting the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which covered crucial aspects of River Basin Management planning, Waste and Water Management, and Water-related Educational Research and Development.
He stressed the involvement of key stakeholders, including the Attorney General of the Federation, the Ministries of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, among others, to ensure a comprehensive review of the document and initiate necessary actions.
Goronyo said that revisiting the MOU aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda for food security and flood control, ultimately benefiting all Nigerians.
In his remarks, the Honorary Consul-General, commended the minister of state for his commitment to revisiting the agreement between the two countries.
He highlighted the potential benefits of collaboration in water management, particularly in enhancing food security, flood mitigation, and educational development for young water engineers.
Deri also emphasised the potential impact of river trainings in expanding irrigable lands along the banks of Rivers Niger and Benue, leading to a significant increase in agricultural yields.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Hungary is a champion for global sustainable water management, promoting international collaboration and action.
Since 2010, its water diplomacy has supported international commitments, co-operation and sharing of experiences. (NAN)
