By Yakubu A. Ochefu 

Introduction 

Water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans, have played indispensable roles in human history, serving as sources of sustenance, trade routes, and symbols of spiritual and cultural identity. This short keynote, explores the intricate relationship between humans and water bodies throughout history, examining the multifaceted influence of water on human societies across various periods and geographical locations. The paper analyses how water has shaped religious beliefs, economic systems, political structures, and cultural practices through an interdisciplinary lens. By investigating historical cases and drawing upon contemporary scholarship, specifically focusing on the River Benue, the paper highlights the enduring significance of water in shaping human civilisation. It underscores the pressing need for sustainable water management in the present and future.

Water as the Lifeblood of Human Society 

In the middle of the fifth century BCE, Empedocles of Acragas formulated a philosophical theory that recognised air, water, earth, and fire as the four elements that bind human civilisation. While the debate on which of the four was paramount, water is often regarded as the “lifeblood” that has shaped human history profoundly, influencing religious practices, economic activities, political dynamics, and cultural expressions. From sacred rivers to water deities, water has been imbued with spiritual significance in countless cultures, shaping religious practices and communities’ worldviews. Culturally, it has profoundly impacted expressions, from rituals and festivals to art and literature. Water is a source of inspiration and symbolises life, death, renewal, and purification. It has also been a critical driver of economic activities, from agriculture and fishing to trade and transportation. The availability and control of water resources have historically determined economic prosperity and power. Access to water has been a source of conflict and cooperation throughout history, influencing the rise and fall of empires and shaping political boundaries.

Historical Perspectives

From ancient civilisations of Mesopotamia, where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers were vital for the development of that civilisation, fueling agriculture, fostering trade and the rise of urbanisation, to ancient Egypt, where the Nile River provided the lifeblood of ancient Egyptian civilisation, supporting agriculture, transportation, and religious practices, water bodies have always been foundational in humanity’s development. The Indus River was the basis of the civilisation that provided sustenance and facilitated the growth of a flourishing urban civilisation. Water is a significant factor in the world’s major Religions. In Hinduism, the Ganges River serves as a purifying force, where rituals like bathing signify spiritual cleansing. For Christians, water serves a role in baptism as a symbol of purification and new beginnings, while in Islam,  it is mentioned in the Quran as a life-giving resource, and it is essential in the context of cleanliness.

Throughout Africa, water is revered as a source of life and fertility, deeply entwined with spiritual beliefs and ritual practices. From the veneration of rain deities and river spirits to the use of water in purification ceremonies and healing rituals, water is a powerful symbol of life, renewal, and spiritual connection. Many rivers and lakes hold religious significance across Africa. The Nile River, for example, is revered in Egyptian mythology as a sacred waterway associated with the god Hapi and representing life, fertility, and rebirth. Similarly, Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, holds spiritual significance for communities in the surrounding regions. In many African cultures, water bodies are believed to be inhabited by ancestral spirits who play a vital role in shaping the lives of the living. These spirits are often invoked in ceremonies and rituals, and their presence is believed to influence the flow of water and the prosperity of communities. In many African cultures, water bodies serve as a source of identity and belonging. Communities living near rivers, lakes, and coastal areas often have strong ties to these water bodies, which are embedded in their histories, traditions, sports, recreation and cultural identities.

From an economic perspective, water has been the backbone of African economies for centuries, sustaining agricultural production and supporting vibrant fishing communities. From the fertile Nile Valley to the vast agrarian landscapes of West Africa, the Tchad and Congo Basin, water access is critical for food security and livelihoods. They have also facilitated trade and transportation across Africa, connecting communities and, fostering economic growth and serving as key arteries for the movement of goods, people, and ideas. In recent times, the harnessing of water power for electricity generation has played a significant role in modernising African economies, providing energy for industrial development and urban growth.

Water power has always been a major factor in politics. Given its role as gateways, the control of water routes has been key to building political power. Major political powers in pre-colonial Africa drew their strength from controlling waterways. The mighty empires of ancient Ghana, Mali, Songhai, and Kanem Borno, had their existence and power to major water bodies.

The penetration of Africa by imperialist forces was also done largely via the waterways. In contemporary times, major infrastructure such as hydroelectric dams have been built on all the major rivers in Africa. Competition for water resources has also been a source of tension and conflict. River basins shared by multiple countries often lead to disputes over water allocation and access, while drought and water scarcity have been known to exacerbate tensions.

The Benue River and its Valley as a Political and Economic Hub



The Benue River and its valley represent one of Africa’s biggest cultural, economic and political corridors. Together with the Nile, Niger, Congo, Zambezi and Limpopo, the Benue has served as a political and economic hub striding two countries and five states and across two geo-political zones. Its nearly 1,483 km of flow is home to some of the major ethnic groups in Central Nigeria, like the Bachama, Jukun, Fulani, Alago, Idoma, Igala, Bassa and Tiv. Major settlements on the banks of the River like Garoua, Yola, Numan, Lau, Ibi, Tunga, Abinsi, Makurdi, Shata, Bagana, Umaisha and Lokoja have at one time served or still serve as administrative and commercial capitals. The major tributaries of the Benue include rivers Taraba, Katsina-ala, Taraba, Donga, Gongola, Faro, Mada, and Mayo-Kebi. The Benue Valley is generally divided into two broad zones. Upper Benue (from Cameroun, through Adamawa to Taraba State. Lower Benue (from Nasarawa, through Benue to Kogi State) The entire stretch is navigable only during the rainy seasons from August to early October. The river is very rich with indigenous varieties of fish such as the famous Lates niloticus (giwan ruwa), West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) and Crocdylus Niloticus ( Nile crocodile). Initial Exploration by the NNPC has shown that the Benue through has significant  Oil and Gas resources and   is currently billed as a strategic reserve for the nation. Solid Mineral deposits in the region include Limestone, Galena, Lead, Silver,  baryte, coal, gypsum, salt, shales, silica, sand, kaolin, Marble, Tantalite, Mica, and Feldspar. The regions combined population and net worth in 2016 stood at 20.06 million and 22.507 million USD, respectively.

The Benue Valley as an Important Geo-Political Transition Zone, serves as a link between the Northern and Southern segments of Nigeria. Six bridges cross the river ( 4 in Nigeria and 1 in Cameroun). A new one is being constructed at   Ibi. The valley is also home to some major economic hubs; Sugar Cane Production (Numan, Lau and Tunga 150,000 hectares operated by Dangote Sugar), Rice, Fish, Yam, Cassava, Vegetables, Maize, Cement and River sand Mining. As an Important Geo-Political transition zone, the Benue valley hosts the largest indigenous population of settled Fulani. It is also home to Fulani political enclaves such as the emirates of Nasarawa, Lafia, Muri, and Fombina. It exists as the socio-religious barrier between what can be loosely described as the Islamic North and non-Islamic Central Region. The valley is home to the major ethnic groups that historically halted the advance of the Jihadists from Sokoto in the early 19th century, such as the Jukun, the Gomai, the Bachama, the Tiv and the Idoma. By implication, the zone is home to the most significant number of non-Islamized people in Northern Nigeria.

Potential for Economic Development 

As Toyin Falola points out in a short but brilliant commentary on this conference, the intention is not only to historicise water bodies but also to point to how they can serve contemporary populations in the quest for economic and social development. By leveraging pointers from history, it is easy to show and demonstrate that water bodies like the Benue, when properly harnessed and managed, can catalyse the economic expansion of the basin. As noted above, the basin is an important agricultural zone,  and a major producer of crops like rice, maize, cassava, sugar and cotton. The river is rich in fish species, providing a livelihood for many communities. Developing irrigation systems and improving agricultural practices could significantly boost production. Similarly, modernising fishing techniques and developing fish processing facilities could enhance the sector. Compared to other river systems, commercial river-based fish farming is yet to be practised on the Benue. The river’s natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage offer huge potential for eco-tourism and cultural tourism. River-based sporting activities can also be developed to provide recreation opportunities. The river’s flow and topography create opportunities for the construction of more hydropower dams. In addition to the Ladgo dam in Cameroon and the Kashimbilla dam on the Katsina-ala River, plans have been mooted to build another dam on the river to improve power supply, irrigation and waterway transportation.

Conclusion

Let me conclude this keynote by focusing on the specifics of Benue State University and the state itself. When Professor Joe Tor Iorapu was appointed Vice-Chancellor, I wrote him an aide memoire in which I mentioned the need to take a more than passing interest in the river behind our campus. I wrote;

The river is one of the most significant assets that we keep ignoring. We can use it to teach, research, for recreation and most importantly, make money. There is absolutely no reason why we should NOT have a “Centre for River Benue Studies”. You can kick start this with a small committee (VC’sVC’s Committee without fanfare) to put the framework together and announce the formation by the first quarter of 2021. I volunteer to work with the Committee. We can partner with firms to invest in an industrial dredger to begin to mine sand and build the largest sand pyramid in Nigeria. We can build the largest river-based fish and freshwater prawns farm in Northern Nigeria. We can build an Olympic-sized swimming pool and water park using the river as a feedstock. An industrial dredger costs about 100 million naira. Better still, it can be fabricated locally. If BSU invests in one, it will recover its money in no time. 

When I did not hear from him, I wrote a similar memo to  Professor Isaac Itodo when he was appointed Vice-Chancellor of JOSTUM. I also made a presentation to the Transition Committee of the current administration and urged them to consider the appointment of a Special Advisor on River Benue Matters. I had often wondered why the river from which the state derives its name is not usually the source of interest by succeeding governments. I am a happy person today as this conference will set the agenda for us all to take this natural endowment more seriously.

I look forward to the eight Universities in the Benue Basin to forge strategic relationships for intensive study of the river and its rich cultural, religious, and economic landscape. The newly emerging digital technologies in the water sector, often called digital water solutions, intelligent water services or digital water technologies, such as sensors, smart pumps, and meters, as well as software solutions, artificial intelligence, or machine learning applications, are emerging areas of research that our universities need to leverage .

Water has played and will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping our societies, influencing religious beliefs, driving economic activities, and influencing political structures and cultural practices. In recognising the significance of water bodies and their crucial role in fostering sustainable development, our communities and nations will increasingly be working together to find solutions to the challenges posed by water scarcity, pollution, and climate change.

Ochefu PhD, FHSN, FNAL, Professor of Economic History and Development Studies  delivered this keynote Lecture at the 2024 Toyin Falola Conference, Benue State University, July 2024.

By Toyin Falola

Distinguished members of the faculty, esteemed guests, and the vibrant student body of the University of Lagos, it is with immense humility and profound gratitude that I stand before you today. As I accept this honorary doctorate, a powerful emblem of scholarly eminence, I am reminded of the incredible journey this prestigious institution has undertaken in the realm of higher education. In 1973, I was admitted to study Law at the University of Lagos, just as I was admitted to Ahmadu Bello University, the University of Nigeria, the University of Ibadan, and the University of Ife. I did not study Law in Lagos for reasons that would be told at the appropriate time. I am now an alumnus by another route. Your University of Lagos is henceforth Our University of Lagos!

The University of Lagos has consistently served as a symbol of hope and a catalyst for optimism among countless individuals throughout Nigeria since its establishment. It symbolizes more than just a place of learning but a transformative environment where the mental abilities of persons who will take on leadership positions are developed and improved upon. The institution has consistently pursued a future-oriented perspective, seeking to challenge the existing conventions of its era and set new standards in higher education. This vision is not solely focused on transmitting knowledge; it is centred on shaping the personalities and futures of those who enter its premises, not only in obtaining one of the best credentials in the academic world but also true to its motto, equipping them to serve humanity “indeed and in truth.”

The institution’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding our diverse cultural legacy and unwavering efforts to achieve social fairness exemplify its core ideals. The University of Lagos is not merely a physical infrastructure with classrooms but rather a vibrant hub where varied ideas intersect and flourish, fostering the development of some of Nigeria’s most exceptional minds. This achievement has been facilitated by a dedication to offering a thorough and balanced education to every student.

Within this enclosed space, students encounter an atmosphere that not only supports studying but also encourages the development of intellectual abilities and the pursuit of new knowledge. Education is regarded here not merely as the accumulation of knowledge but rather as a profound and changing experience. Students see a significant transformation in their intellectual abilities, emerging as individuals who can think critically and take on leadership roles, capable of successfully navigating the intricacies of our constantly evolving world.

The University of Lagos has created an environment that promotes intellectual engagement, where students are actively encouraged to address the urgent issues of their time. They are not only passive recipients of knowledge but rather active participants in a dynamic and interactive learning environment. This educational method guarantees that students have abundant opportunities to communicate their thoughts and ideas, not just in the classroom but also through participation in debates, dramatic performances, and other kinds of expressive arts.

At this esteemed establishment, education transcends the conventional confines of lecture halls. It functions as a channel for students to develop new skills and build long-lasting social connections. The University of Lagos acknowledges the significance of comprehensive development, which encompasses several programmes and disciplines such as athletics, social welfare, and cultural pursuits. This comprehensive strategy enhances the pool of knowledge and expertise, not just within the country but also globally, promoting the development of individuals with a global perspective. The university’s impact reaches beyond its campus and into the wider society, mainly through its substantial research productivity and its graduates, who are known to take key roles in academia and corporate establishments around the world. The impact of the work conducted within these premises extends beyond these boundaries, exerting influence on society discussions and the formation of policies. The university’s commitment to attaining research excellence is apparent in its strategic collaborations with diverse academic institutions, government agencies, and worldwide organizations. These relationships have not only increased the influence of the university’s research but have also offered vital opportunities for students and staff to actively participate in addressing global concerns.

The University of Lagos holds the belief that education is a catalyst for significant transformation, which is central to its character. This university equips its students not only with knowledge but also with the skills and values required to implement positive societal progress. Within this dynamic educational setting, students are actively encouraged to inquire, to create new ideas, and to take charge. As earlier noted, the institution fosters in its students the conviction that they possess the ability to effect change on a global scale, a conviction that is seen in the exceptional accomplishments of the university’s graduates.

Standing here now, I am greatly inspired by the University of Lagos’ steadfast dedication to achieving greatness in every aspect. This dedication extends beyond achieving academic distinction and encompasses the holistic development of individuals in terms of their intellect, emotions, and ethics. The comprehensive education offered at this institution aims to provide students not only with the necessary skills for their future professions but also with the knowledge and abilities required for their personal development and overall life experiences.

The University of Lagos stands out as a distinctive and esteemed institution due to its comprehensive approach to education. At this institution, students are not merely acquiring knowledge from textbooks; instead, they actively participate in addressing real-world problems and devising solutions to both local and global crises. The institution has continuously exhibited its capacity to adjust to the changing educational environment, incorporating pioneering pedagogical approaches and state-of-the-art research while upholding traditional principles of honesty and determination.

The University of Lagos has had a noticeable effect on the achievements of its former students, who have emerged as influential figures in several industries both in Nigeria and internationally. These individuals exemplify the university’s aim by effectively utilizing the knowledge and skills they have gained here to make substantial progress in their respective fields. Not only are they pursuing their personal goals, but they are also making valuable contributions to society, exemplifying the principles of service and leadership promoted by this great university.

Furthermore, the university’s dedication to tolerance and diversity is praiseworthy. It has established a setting in which students from many backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs converge, promoting a sense of harmony amidst their differences. The active embrace of other cultures in this environment not only enhances the student’s encounter but also equips them for the international arena, where comprehension and appreciation of varieties are crucial for achieving success. This University will continue to provide a haven for the mosaic of cultures needed to promote and sustain the progress of humanity in the twenty-first century and beyond.

The University of Lagos combines rigorous academic standards with a lively campus environment to shape students into versatile individuals. In addition to academic pursuits, the institution provides a wide array of extracurricular activities and organizations, encompassing several fields such as law, arts, literature, science, and technology. Extracurricular activities offer young minds the chance to investigate their interests, acquire new abilities, and interact with their peers in significant ways.

Building upon our previous discussion, the University of Lagos has always prioritized the significance of community involvement and societal obligation. The institution not only imparts knowledge to its students but also motivates them to contribute to their communities. The institution cultivates a strong commitment to service, which permeates all aspects of campus life and motivates students to utilize their knowledge in ways that have a good influence on society. This method guarantees that the advantages of higher education go beyond the individual, penetrating deep into communities and promoting a culture of social responsibility.

The university’s research activities are closely interconnected with practical applications in the actual world. The emphasis on pragmatic and influential research conducted here not only contributes to scholarly dialogue but also tackles the urgent demands of society. The research coming out at the University of Lagos is advancing groundbreaking answers to complex problems in several fields such as law, medicine, engineering, the arts, and the social sciences.

The University of Lagos has gained prominence in the educational sphere of Nigeria and Africa due to its exceptional academic standards, strong social awareness, and dedication to innovation. The university has emerged as an emblem of optimism and advancement, not just for its students but for the entire nation. As we contemplate the future, the significance of institutions such as the University of Lagos in influencing that future becomes increasingly vital.

Upon receiving this honorary degree, I am well cognizant of the weighty responsibilities it entails. It serves as both an acknowledgement of personal accomplishments and a reminder to actively contribute to the important goals of education and society’s progress. The University of Lagos has set an excellent standard in this area, one that I am determined to sustain in my future undertakings.

To conclude, I would like to convey my utmost gratitude to the University of Lagos for bestowing this prestigious recognition upon me. The university’s steadfast commitment to greatness, dynamic culture of innovation, and profound passion for creating a better world inspire me. May this valued institution persist as a source of knowledge, a connection to the future, and a driving force for beneficial transformation in Nigeria and beyond.