March 24, (THEWILL) – Stakeholders in the water sector have been urged to ensure effective management planning aimed at ensuring the sustainability of the glacier systems.
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr Ubuo Ubuo, gave the charge while speaking at a one-day seminar to mark the 2025 Water Day celebration in Uyo, at the weekend.
The Commissioner noted that glacier preservation is the most critical in humanity’s most urgent challenges, being the guardian of the planet’s history
With the theme: “Glacier preservation”, Eduo explained that preservation of the glacier in practical terms, means the reduction in vehicular traffic, tree planting, use of eco-friendly products, reduction in the use of pesticides, and avoidance of burning bushes among others.
“Considering that this world is a global village, what goes around comes around. Let all hands be on deck to preserve our glaciers for the sustainability of the ecosystem.
“I urge all stakeholders in water resources planning, exploration and management as well as wetland, and coastal managers to pull the needed synergy, and adopt integrated water resources management approach that will ensure preservation and sustainability of glacier systems”, he said.
In his keynote address, a professor of Agric-economics at the University of Uyo, Gabriel Umoh, said the melting glacier affects ocean currents, causing the sea level to rise which most times lead to flooding in coastal communities, such as some communities in Akwa Ibom.
The Don defined glaciers as the accumulation of snow and ice that roll over the land, adding that glaciers exist all over the world except in Australia.
“Studies have shown that 43,110 residents of Akwa Ibom State are affected by flood. They have been displaced but still live in their communities. Therefore, adaptation to glaciers becomes a source of concern to experts”, Prof. Umoh said.
He, therefore, recommended some action plans to the government and other authorities to preserve glaciers, in an attempt to check climate change caused by lack of preservation of the glacier.
“This should include reduction in carbon emissions through an authorised framework, tree planting, awareness campaign by educating the people and support to government policies and regulations”, he added.
He, however, stressed on timely attention of the state government on issues of WASH, in terms of timely approval of funds, and implementation due to the importance of water in all aspects of life.
