Masari declares state of emergency in water, sanitation, open defecation

From Lawal Sa’ idu Funtua, Katsina

Governor Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State has declared state of emergency in water supply, sanitation and open defecation in Katsina State.
Masari made the declaration yesterday in Katsina while speaking during a press conference at the General Muhammadu Buhari Government house Katsina.
He noted that with the declaration of the state of emergency in these areas, the government according to him will participate in accessing funds due for states at the federal ministry of water resources.
The governor disclosed that the issue of water supply was among the five key areas of the restoration agenda of his administration, adding that short, medium and long term measures were taken to address the WASH service delivery in the state.
He added that under the short term measure the government had replaced high lift pumps at Ajiwa water works which he said assisted greatly in pumping treated water from Ajiwa to Katsina metropolis.
Other projects embarked by his administration in the water sector, Masari revealed include repairs and replacement of pumps in Funtua and Malumfashi water works.
He noted that his administration has equally replace submersible pumps and generating set at Daura water works, adding that during this period Sabke water works and semi-urban water supply centres in Dutsi and Mashi were commissioned.
Masari therefore acknowledged the contribution of development partners, especially UNICEF where he said they have assisted institutions in both the state and local government through capacity building and logistic support.