From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
Governor Uba Sani’s significant investment in the water sector is yielding positive outcomes, with an unprecedented increase in water supply across Kaduna State over the past month.
The Commissioner for Public Works and Infrastructure, Arc Ibrahim Hamza, made this announcement and promised that the water supply will be further enhanced once the Makera Water Treatment Plant is rehabilitated.
In a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary, Ibraheem Musa, on Sunday, the Commissioner highlighted areas such as Tudun Wada, Malali, Unguwan Dosa, Doka ward, Unguwan Rimi, Barnawa, and Narayi, which have all experienced improved water supply since December.
“The Malali Water Works has been rehabilitated to optimum capacity, significantly enhancing water supply in Kaduna metropolis. The supply will further improve once the Makera Plant is fully operational,” he stated.
Hamza noted that areas that had not received a water supply for the last seven years are now seeing water flowing from their taps, thanks to the Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC).
He also disclosed that both the 150 MLD and 10 MLD Zaria Water Works are now fully operational, providing residents with a consistent water supply. Additionally, he mentioned that major repairs have been conducted at the Kafanchan Water Treatment Plant, resulting in improved water availability in the town and surrounding local government areas.
The Commissioner assured residents that “boreholes will become unnecessary once all water treatment plants across the state are fully operational, as residents will have no need for them.”
Arc Ibrahim Hamza commended Governor Uba Sani for declaring a state of emergency in the water sector in 2023, which led to substantial investments, the clearing of salary arrears, and the recruitment of a qualified Managing Director for KADSWAC.
He revealed that Governor Sani plans to allocate N93 billion over four years for the rehabilitation of the water sector in four phases, aimed at comprehensively addressing the neglect of the past 11 years.
“Initially, he paid all outstanding salaries and wages of KADSWAC staff, amounting to N800 million. Furthermore, he reinstated the corporation on the state’s payroll and settled the water corporation’s overdue electricity bill of N1.3 billion.
“He appointed Engr. Kabir Rufai, who has three decades of experience in the water sector, is the substantive Managing Director for KADSWAC,” the statement added.
According to the Commissioner, Kaduna State has also invested heavily in the rehabilitation and retrofitting of all water treatment plants and distribution mains, with a focus on sanitation and hygiene.
He urged Kaduna residents to pay their water bills promptly and advised KADSWAC staff to diligently fulfill their responsibilities.
