Nigeria has about 267.3 billion cubic meters of surface water and 52 billion cubic meters of underground water. Despite the potential, only about 39 percent of the rural population and 52 percent of urban dwellers have access to safe drinking water.

Only 18 percent of the total water impounded nationwide is effectively used. Water shortages are rampant nationwide.

Objective

The PDP aims at providing universal access to safe drinking water, adequate sanitation and eradication of water-borne diseases. The PDP in government will put in place measures for optimum utilization of water resources for enhanced and sustained economic growth. A participatory approach, involving
all stakeholders, including the three tiers of government and the private sector, will be adopted in the development of water resources and the provision of water.

The PDP government will aim at the rehabilitation and modernization of existing infrastructure and provision of additional ones. Intra sectoral policy consistency especially at the three tiers will receive priority while institutional reforms will be on a continuous basis. Efforts would be geared towards the
achievement of the Millennium Development Goals in the area of access to potable water. The private sector will be encouraged to participate fully in water resources development.

Irreducible Minimum Objectives for States & LGA

• Provide portable water within easy reach of all communities
• Encourage community ownership and sustenance of water projects
• Ensure water management rain harvesting and irrigation in all Local Government Areas.

To Get There: PDP will

• Fast track the passage of all pending water resources legislation so that water resources are not only rationally used but protected too;
• Completion of key ongoing projects at all levels, including hydro.-geological mapping of the country and the establishment of water quality laboratories;
• Continue the expansion and improvement of the rural water supply and sanitation schemes at state level.
• Encourage private sector participation in water resources development, supply and management.