Sokoto state governor Ahmed Aliyu has commissioned a township water scheme designed to produce three million gallons of water per day in a bold step towards addressing perennial water shortages in the state.
The event, held at the Old Airport Water Scheme site on Monday, marked a milestone in the administration’s ambitious plan to reactivate and complete six major water schemes across the metropolis.
The commissioning is part of a broader project expected to generate a total of 40 million gallons of water daily once fully completed, significantly easing the burden of water scarcity that has plagued Sokoto residents for years.
“It gives me great pleasure to mark this significant milestone in our commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Sokoto state. Today, we are commissioning one of six township water schemes which is an important step towards ensuring a steady and improved supply of clean water,” the governor said.
The governor expressed appreciation to Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe state for taking out time to commission the projects.
Governor Aliyu recalled the dire state of water supply in Sokoto when his administration took office, noting that residents were paying as much as ₦200 to ₦300 per jerrican of water.
The situation was worsened by the lack of essential water treatment chemicals and a poorly functioning infrastructure.
He said worried by the unpleasant situation, his administration took swift and decisive action which led to the restoration of normal water supply to Sokoto and environ.
However, the governor acknowledged the return of water supply challenges in recent months, attributed to low electricity voltage and reduced water levels from the state’s main river. He assured residents that measures had already been put in place to address the issues.
“We’ve replaced many obsolete pieces of equipment and provided an additional power source to the State Water Board”.
He said his administration has also awarded contracts for the completion of six township water schemes initially conceived under the leadership of former governor, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, including Tamaje Water Scheme, Old Airport Water Scheme, Gagi Water Scheme, Mana Water Scheme, Runjin Sambo Water Scheme and Ruga Liman Water Scheme
According to Governor Aliyu, the entire project is valued at over N14 billion and work on the remaining schemes is progressing steadily.
“These are not just projects,they are promises fulfilled, meant to alleviate the suffering caused by water scarcity and to empower our communities for a more resilient and prosperous Sokoto,” he said.
He commended stakeholders, contractors, engineers, and community leaders for their dedication in bringing the vision to life, and extended appreciation to the people of Sokoto for their support and resilience.