Nigerian Integrated Water Resources Commission

The Nigerian Integrated Water Resources Commission (NIWRC) is the agency established to regulate water resources in Nigeria.^[1][2]

Since 2020, there have been several controversies against the passing of the National Water Resources Bill.^[3] Most of the rejection around the bill was based on its requirement for individuals to obtain license before they can access drill water which the populace believed should be free.^[4] Part of the bill states that:

This Bill seeks to establish a Regulatory framework for Trans Boundary Water Resources in Nigeria, provide for the equitable and sustainable development, management, use and conservation of Nigeria’s Inter-State surface Water and Groundwater Resources.

— National Water Resources Bill, ^[5]

The functions of NIWRC includes but are not limited to the following:^[6]

• issue water use licenses
• put indiscriminate drilling of boreholes in check
• avoid pollution of ground water sources
• implement and enforce water law
• manage bodies of water