The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN Lagos has joined the global community in commemorating World Water Day 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for glacier preservation and its impact on freshwater resources.
In a statement issued by its chairman, Engr. Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi FNSE, FNIEEE, APWEN Lagos highlighted the far-reaching effects of glacier loss, particularly for nations like Nigeria, which, despite having no glaciers, faces significant consequences from rising sea levels and disrupted water systems.
According to the statement, experts warned that climate change’s drive to rapidly melt glaciers presents several challenges for Nigeria.
These challenges include:
Water Security: Glaciers act as natural reservoirs that regulate river flows. Their accelerated melting disrupts global water availability, indirectly affecting agriculture, industries, and daily life in Nigeria.
Sea-Level Rise: Increased meltwater contributes to rising sea levels, posing a severe threat to coastal cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt, which risk flooding, erosion, and habitat loss.
Climate Change Mitigation: Engineers play a key role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable practices, addressing a major cause of glacier melting.
Water Conservation: The adoption of innovative water management strategies is critical to ensuring long-term water security.
Coastal Protection: Building resilient infrastructure is necessary to protect vulnerable communities from the growing threats of climate change.
APWEN Lagos urged policymakers, industry leaders and the public to prioritize climate action and water conservation efforts, stressing that a proactive approach is essential to mitigating the long-term impacts of climate change on Nigeria’s water security.
“Together, we can drive innovation, sustainability, and resilience in the face of climate change,” said Engr. Owolabi.
As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, APWEN Lagos is dedicated to empowering female engineers to lead climate resilience initiatives. The association advocates engineering-driven solutions to tackle the effects of climate change and ensure a sustainable future.