COALITION OF NIGERIAN YOUTH LEADERS (CONYL).
PRESS RELEASE
It Is Time for AMCOW To Show It Is Not A Toothless Bulldog.
... Says AMCOW should be an effective institution for water development in Africa.
The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) the umbrella body of youth groups drawn across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria calls for the urgent consideration of the African Ministers Council on Water (AMCOW) to not renew the contract of the current Executive Secretary, whose tenure is set to elapse on November 8, 2025. It is imperative we address the numerous shortcomings and unprofessional conduct that have marred AMCOW’s effectiveness under his leadership.
Despite being a pivotal organization for water management across the continent, AMCOW has faced a disturbing decline in various operational aspects during the current Executive Secretary’s tenure.
The secretariat's finances are in disarray, undermining the foundation needed for impactful operations. There has been a notable failure to effectively mobilize member states and ministers, resulting in weakened collaboration and shared objectives.
The ousting of staff has been executed in an outrageous manner, leading to a critical loss of institutional memory that is detrimental to AMCOW’s ongoing initiatives. Under the current Executive Secretary, AMCOW has struggled to maintain its standard of peace and cooperation among member states, with divisions arising where harmony is essential.
The Council faces legal attempts initiated by illegitimately dismissed former staffs, indicative of a troubling work environment and a failure of leadership.
Ongoing investigations into the Secretariat’s leadership highlight serious concerns raised by staff petitions, further tarnishing the Council's reputation.
Africa is abundant with talented professionals capable of leading AMCOW with integrity and effectiveness. The pressing need for the African Ministers responsible for water to rise to this occasion is paramount. We urge them to seek an Executive Secretary who is committed to cooperation with existing frameworks such as the African Union and its Africa Investment Programme (AIP), the African Development Bank, and other essential partners.
The current Executive Secretary’s lack of support for the AIP—a crucial initiative aimed at raising $30 billion annually for Africa’s water and climate development—reflects a concerning detachment from AMCOW’s objectives. This is particularly distressing given his past involvement in its formative stages.
We need a leader who prioritizes our continent's interests over personal grievances, someone who can foster collaboration and champion the significant advantages that AMCOW can provide to African nations.
The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders stands firm in advocating for the necessary changes within AMCOW. We call on all relevant stakeholders to act decisively to enhance the effectiveness of this critical institution and fulfill its mandate to improve water governance across Africa.
We therefore demand that the position of the Executive Secretary should be advertised to bring onboard a competent professional who will take the organization to an enviable heights.
Signed:
Comrade Goodluck Ibem
President General
Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL)
Comrade Adeyemo Adewale
Publicity Secretary
Comrade Junaid Abubakar
Secretary
Comrade Iniobong Sampson.
PRO