Don Highlights On The Potential Of Groundwater As Hidden Wealth For Sustainable Future

A Professor of Applied Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology at Rivers State University (RSU), Prof. Hycient Ogunka Nwankwoala, has emphasized the importance of protecting groundwater from unprofessional borehole drilling activities. In his inaugural lecture, “Groundwater: The Hidden Wealth for Sustainable Future,” Nwankwoala highlighted the potential of groundwater as a vital resource for the state’s increasing population.

He noted that unchecked borehole drilling activities could pose a future problem for water sustainability and urged the state government to create a database for borehole operators to aid in planning and training. Nwankwoala stressed that every drop of water is precious and that access to clean water is a fundamental right.

The professor cited the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDG) Goal 6, which focuses on water, and highlighted the challenges faced by Nigeria, including increasing demands for water resources due to population growth.

In Nigeria water resources, including rain harvesting , surface water and ground water are obtainable in varying quantities from place to place.The least understood of these source is ground water source,yet it is the most abundant , most reliable and cheapest to harness.It is a natural resource for present and future generations and it’s a strategic resource contributing about 80% of the domestic supply of urban and rural populations.”

Beneath our feet lies a hidden treasure,a vast reservoir of water plays a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth.water is a prime natural resource and precious national asset and the most critical need of man.water is life; when there is no water,it is as if there are no people living.”he stated .

He emphasized that groundwater is the most abundant, reliable, and cheapest source of water, contributing about 80% of domestic supply.

Nwankwoala expressed concern about the pollution of surface water in the Niger Delta region and the need to conserve groundwater.

He suggested setting up robust groundwater data collection and sharing mechanisms to ensure sustainable management of this vital resource.

The Vice-Chancellor of RSU, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, commended Nwankwoala for his insightful lecture, describing it as “hot” and aligning with the lecturer’s emphasis on water as life and a treasure.

He praised Nwankwoala’s wealth of experience and exposure of the audience to the importance of groundwater sustainability.

Akujobi Amadi