“Waters of Nigeria” is not the same thing as “water of Nigerians”. While Nigerians use water in the country, it isn’t necessarily owned by them. The Water Resources Act shows that water is owned and controlled by the Federal Government. It also gives the citizens (Nigerians) rights to use and take water in specific scenarios. Another thought that came to mind is if the nations water isn’t clearly defined, what prevents another nation from laying claims or rights to water within the country. The Territorial Waters Act shows the limits of the territorial waters of Nigeria include every part of the open sea within twelve nautical miles of the coast of Nigeria (measured from low water mark) or of the seaward limits of inland waters. Within this territories, there are different “types” of water:
Surface Water: As the name suggests, its water that can be seen on the surface anywhere within the nations boundary. EG: Streams, Rivers, Lakes, Wetlands, Oceans.
Ground Water: Refers to water found or stored spaces or cracks in the ground (i.e soil, sand and rock). Almost like when a foam is dipped in water. The foam retains or stores some water while others drain out immediately.
Underground Water: Same as ground water, just dig deeper.
Inland Water: May also be called “Internal Waters” is any waters (eg: lakes, canals, rivers, watercourses, inlets, and bays) within the boundaries of a nation. This water can be fresh, saline or a mixture of both.
Trans-boundary Water: Refers to water body parts or water courses that are shared among at least two national or political boundaries with diverse values and different needs associated with water use.
