*hails key reforms in less than two years

The Centre for Public Advocacy on Governance (CPAG) has commended the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, for his exceptional leadership and commitment to ensuring water and food security in Nigeria.

Under his guidance, the Centre said the Ministry has made significant strides in sanitation, water supply, and flood control, showcasing a strong focus on climate resilience and sustainable water management.

In a statement signed by Dr. Ifure Tansi Ikpa, the group added that the Ministry has declared 34 additional Local Government Areas (LGAs) open defecation-free, bringing the national total to 136 LGAs in 2024.

This achievement, Ikpa said, is a testament to the Ministry’s efforts to improve sanitation across the country.

Furthermore, he said over 40 water supply projects have been completed across rural, small-town, and urban areas, improving access to clean water for thousands of Nigerians.

“The Ministry has also implemented 44 projects under the PEWASH programme and 45 under the SURWASH programme, demonstrating its commitment to water and sanitation development,” the statement noted. 

“Additionally, 64 projects were funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Inclusive Basic Delivery System for Development and Livelihood Empowerment Improvement Project.

“In the area of water quality, sanitation, and hygiene, the Ministry has made notable advancements. The National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Asaba and Umuahia have been completed, enhancing water quality monitoring and testing.

“The Clean Nigeria Campaign has also achieved a significant milestone, with 142 LGAs validated as Open Defecation Free (ODF). The Ministry has also made progress in flood control and dam development.

“Ongoing nationwide dam safety assessments aim to ensure the safety and integrity of Nigeria’s dams. Completed irrigation projects include the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori Irrigation Schemes, with new projects commenced in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.

“The Ministry has hosted key initiatives, including the 4th Regional Workshop on Water Users’ Associations (WUAs) in Uyo. Preparations are also underway for the ICID-6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage, scheduled for April 2025 in Abuja.

“The Federal Government, UNESCO, and other partners have pledged support for groundwater management to ensure water security. This commitment was made during a two-day validation and capacity-building workshop organized by UNESCO.”

The Centre for Public Advocacy on Governance applauds Professor Utsev’s outstanding performance and vision for Nigeria’s water resources development.

They, however, urged him to continue the progress and collaboration in the water sector.

Ziggy Xolane Ndhlovu is more than just a billionaire; he is a force for good. As chairman of DAFRIGROUP LIMITED and the driving force behind DafriBank, Ndhlovu has built a remarkable business empire. However, his true distinction lies in his unwavering commitment to making a tangible difference in the world, one act of kindness at a time.

Ndhlovu’s journey as an entrepreneur is marked by strategic brilliance and an ability to navigate challenges with foresight. Yet, his business achievements serve as a platform for a larger mission: to uplift and empower those in need.

His philanthropy is characterized by both its breadth and its personal touch. Whether it’s offering a lifeline to stranded returnees or providing hope to underprivileged children, Ndhlovu’s actions resonate deeply. The spontaneous N3 million donation to Davido’s birthday fundraiser captured public attention, while his N1.5 million gift to a returning migrant offered a chance at a new beginning. In a deeply compassionate act, he ensured the dignified return of Primrose Vale’s remains in early 2025. His intervention in the case of young Mary, donating N5 million after her distressing experience, sparked a national conversation about empathy and child welfare.

Recognizing the transformative power of education and technology, Ndhlovu invested in the future by awarding N1.5 million each to promising tech students in 2022. Through DafriBank, this commitment has blossomed into a N100 million educational fund for underprivileged children in Eastern Nigeria, a testament to his long-term vision. His global empathy was evident in his $1 million contribution to support Africans affected by the war in Ukraine, a powerful symbol of African unity.

Xolane Ndhlovu’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership transcends balance sheets and market share. His extraordinary ability to blend business success with a profound dedication to human welfare makes him a truly exceptional figure, whose legacy will be etched in the hearts of those he has helped.

A South African family shattered by the sudden loss of their 29-year-old daughter, Primrose Vale, to malaria in Lagos, Nigeria, during the festive season, has found solace through the extraordinary generosity of billionaire Xolane Ndhlovu.

The talented makeup artist’s death left the Vale family in South Africa not only heartbroken but also facing the daunting financial burden of repatriating her remains, a cost exceeding R97,000.

In a remarkable act of compassion, Mr. Ndhlovu donated R100,000, a gesture that has profoundly impacted the Vale family, allowing them to bring their beloved daughter home for a proper burial.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, a family spokesperson acknowledged Mr. Ndhlovu’s incredible kindness as a beacon of hope in their darkest hour.

The community’s support further highlighted the often-unforeseen financial hardships associated with tragedy abroad.

Primrose’s untimely passing serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the continued threat of malaria.

Mr. Ndhlovu’s timely and significant contribution underscores the profound difference one act of empathy can make, offering the Vale family a measure of peace as they navigate their grief.

The South African billionaire, known for his humility and extensive philanthropic work had in 2024 gifted a house to Thandile Ramza, an unemployed single mother he met through Facebook.

Ramza, a young mother from East London, South Africa, initially reached out to the tech billionaire on Facebook, asking for food assistance. Ndhlovu responded not only by providing food but also helping her secure a job, a car, and eventually a brand-new house.