February 24, 2026 – The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, appeared before the House of Representatives Committee on Water Resources today to defend the ministry’s proposed 2026 budget.
Accompanied by a team of senior officials from the ministry, Engr. Utsev presented the fiscal estimates at the National Assembly Complex, detailing the ministry’s strategic plans for the upcoming year.
The budget defense session was presided over by the Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Sada Soli, along with the Deputy Chairman, Hon. Muktar Chawa. Other members of the committee were also in attendance to scrutinize the allocation and ensure it aligns with the country’s water and sanitation infrastructure needs.
During the session, the committee evaluated the performance of the ministry’s previous budget and questioned the Minister on the implementation of key projects across the federation. The lawmakers emphasized the importance of ensuring that every naira allocated translates into tangible benefits for Nigerians, particularly in the areas of irrigation, dam construction, and the provision of potable water.
Engr. Utsev reiterated the ministry’s commitment to achieving the federal government’s goals of food security and improved public health through efficient water resource management.
The ongoing budget defense process is part of the broader legislative oversight aimed at finalizing the 2026 Appropriation Bill. The National Assembly recently extended the resumption of plenary to early March to allow committees more time to engage with various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
