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At least 33 percent of the population in Africa's most populous country lack access to potable water, a top Nigerian government official admitted on Tuesday.
"Before the inception of this administration, access to potable water was 58 percent [of the population]," said Water Resources Minister Sarah Ochekpe, whose ministry is currently assessing the progress of recent reform efforts aimed at improving water access.
"But now, access is 67 percent," she added.
The minister said everything was being done to boost access to potable water as part of Nigeria's efforts to meet the U.N's Millennium Development Goals, which are due for review in 2015.
The eight goals range from halving extreme poverty rates to halting the spread of HIV/AIDS and providing universal primary education.
There are concerns Nigeria may not meet the eight goals, which also include reducing child mortality and promoting gender equality.
The minister stressed that the central government was collaborating with other concerned parties to ensure that Nigeria achieved its objectives.
"The ministry will continue to perform its mandate to ensure efficient and effective utilization of the nation's water resources," Ochekpe asserted.
"Efforts will be made to complete all ongoing dams, irrigation, water supply and other critical projects," she added.
The population of Nigeria is estimated at 170 million.
Despite its current rating as Africa's biggest economy - followed by South Africa - more than 67 of Nigerians live on less than two dollars per day, according to the UN Development Program and other development figures.
By Rafiu Ajakaye
englishnews@aa.com.tr
www.aa.com.tr/en - Lagos
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