The Association of Table Water Producers of Nigeria (ATWAP) has urged the federal and state governments to prioritise access to affordable, safe and clean drinking water for Nigerians.
ATWAP National President, Dr Clementina Ativie, said this at the 2025 World Water Day, for the SouthWest/Kwara Zone, on Saturday in Ota, Ogun.
The World Water Day is celebrated annually across on March 22.
Ativie, represented by Mosaku Omolabake, ATWAP Chairperson, Lagos Chapter, said the country was faced with unique challenges in accessing a safe and sustainable clean drinking water.
“I want to commend our members for working tirelessly in providing affordable and accessible drinking water for Nigerians.
“However, we recognise that our efforts must be complemented by broader commitments to preserve our water resources, including glaciers.
“We must work together to promote sustainable water management practices and support initiatives that protect and preserve glaciers.
“We also advocate policies and programmes that prioritise the preservation of glaciers and other water resources,” she stated.
Ativie emphasised the critical importance of glaciers in maintaining global water systems, supporting biodiversity and providing water for human consumption, agriculture and industry.
She also stressed the need to raise awareness, efficient use of water resources and protection of water sources, to promote glaciers preservation.
Mr Babatunde Lawal, ATWAP Chairman, Ogun Chapter, said the success of a trade association was not solely dependent on leadership, but also on the quality of followership it nurtured.
Lawal stated that effective followership involved active participation, constructive criticism, ethical responsibility and shared vision.
He added that a virile trade association required members who were not only beneficiaries, but contributors to its growth.
“For sustained leadership now and in the future, trade association must build a leadership -followership synergy, invest in leadership development, ensure transparency and embrace adaptability,” he said.
Mr Benu Philips, the State Coordinator,Ogun 2 Office, Ota, implored ATWAP members to ensure strict compliance to regulatory rules of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Phillip, represented by Mrs Grace Adeoye, an official of NAFDAC, reiterated the agency’s commitment to continually regulate and control the use of drugs, packed water, medical devices and cosmetics to ensure a healthy society.
She also enjoined members to report any quackery to the nearest NAFDAC office for appropriate action.