In demonstration of commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume on Wednesday commissioned newly rehabilitated New Bussa water work in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
SGF, who was represented by the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi stated that the project, which aligns with the UN’s goal, aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation.
He noted that the project was part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to improve the living standards of citizens and achieve sustainable development.
“This project is a testament to the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the people of New Bussa, who have long struggled with access to potable water, despite so much water around them.
Sen. Akume urged the people of New Bussa to take ownership of the project, use water judiciously, and pay their water bills regularly to ensure continuous operation and maintenance.
He also called on community leaders to lead by example and work closely with the water authority to address any challenges that may arise.
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He lauded the efforts of the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission, N-HYPPADEC, Managing Director, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa for working tirelessly to bring the project to fruition.
Earlier, Yelwa said the commission has provided a state-of-the-art water treatment and distribution system, modern laboratory facilities, vehicles, motorcycles and chemicals for water treatment.
“New Bussa holds a special place in the history of electricity development in Nigeria. As a resettled community, it has borne the brunt of hydroelectric power generation since the construction of Kainji Dam in the 1960s.
“For decades, the irony was not lost on us – a town that sacrificed its original lands for the nation’s power supply struggled with basic amenities, particularly water. Today, we begin to right that historical wrong,” he said.
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, represented by the Commissioner, Niger State Ministry of Water Resources and Dams Development, Barrister YAHAYA Alhassan Gwagwa, commended the outcome of the partnership with N-HYPPADEC towards improved potable water supply in the State.
He assured the Federal Government of the State’s firm commitment to operationalise, maintain, protect and preserve the assets.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by the Emir of Borgu, Dr. Mohammed Sani Haliru Dantoro.
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