UNICEF has warned that water could become Nigeria’s most precious commodity if environmental challenges are not urgently addressed.
UNICEF’s Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, told journalists in Sokoto that environmental degradation and poor waste management are rapidly depleting water supplies. She predicted that water’s future value could surpass current revenues from solid minerals, oil, and gas.

The official criticised the indiscriminate sinking of boreholes and the improper disposal of plastic and polythene materials as key contributors to the emerging water crisis. Munduate urged Nigerian authorities to enforce environmental protection laws, prioritise clean water provision, and improve waste management practices.
“In Nigeria, water will become the most precious commodity or product in the future,” Munduate warned during her Northwest working visit, noting the urgent need for comprehensive environmental conservation strategies.
UNICEF stressed that addressing water scarcity is crucial for environmental sustainability, preventing diseases, and improving public health across Nigerian communities.
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