Water Crisis Hits Gombe Tertiary Institutions, NANS Cries Out for Urgent Intervention

By Adesakin Adefemi 

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), North-East Zone, has raised an alarm over the acute shortage of potable water in some tertiary institutions across Gombe State, describing the situation as a serious threat to students' health and academic activities. The affected institutions include several universities and colleges, where students are struggling to access clean water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene.

According to the Zonal Coordinator of NANS North-East, Muazu Hina, students in the affected institutions are "currently grappling with an alarming shortage of potable water," a situation he deems "unacceptable and dangerous". Hina stated that the water crisis has led to a surge in water-borne diseases, with many students reporting cases of cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.

The crisis is further exacerbated by an ongoing cankerworm infestation, which has disrupted water sources and sanitation facilities, exposing students to health risks and undermining academic activities. The cankerworm infestation has also damaged crops and vegetation, leading to food shortages and economic losses for local farmers.

Hina emphasized that access to clean water is a fundamental human right and a critical requirement for effective learning, urging the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to intervene urgently. He called on the Commission to deploy solar-powered boreholes and sustainable water infrastructure to the affected institutions, aligning with the NEDC's developmental and humanitarian mandate.

The NANS coordinator explained that addressing water and power challenges in educational institutions falls squarely within the mandate of the NEDC, particularly in rebuilding and strengthening social infrastructure in the North East. He urged the Commission to rise to the occasion and provide immediate relief to the affected students.

Despite repeated appeals and engagements with the Commission, the water crisis persists, prompting NANS to demand urgent action to prevent further deterioration of students' welfare and institutional stability. The association has also appealed to government agencies, development partners, and civil society organizations to collaborate in addressing the crisis.

The water shortage has sparked concerns among students and parents, highlighting the need for immediate intervention to ensure access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Many students have been forced to fetch water from distant streams and ponds, exposing them to water-borne diseases and other health risks.

The situation has also led to a rise in tensions on campus, with students threatening to protest if the water crisis is not addressed urgently. NANS North East has vowed to continue advocating for the rights of students and demanding accountability from the authorities.

NANS North East will continue to advocate, engage, and demand accountability in the interest of Nigerian students and the future of education in the region.