The Federal Government, in its sustained effort to fulfill its mandate in the water sector—particularly in addressing numerous water supply challenges—has continued to scale up its commitment to providing potable water to all Nigerians.
This commitment was clearly demonstrated today, Tuesday, 6th May 2025, as the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, officially commissioned the Gashua Water Supply Scheme at the Gashua Water Works, Filin Tanda, in Bade Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who commissioned the scheme on behalf of the Federal Government, described it as a significant intervention aimed at resolving the long-standing water supply issues in Gashua and surrounding communities.
According to the Minister, the Gashua Water Supply Project has a capacity of 3,200 million litres per day and was completed at a revised total cost of ₦5,735,046,416.75. It is expected to serve over one million residents with safe, clean, and potable water.
Prof. Utsev emphasized that the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which prioritizes access to clean water as vital for public health, economic development, and poverty alleviation.
He highlighted that key components of the project include the construction of four solar-powered, borehole-based water systems—one located within a university campus—the installation of a modern water treatment plant, provision of both surface and elevated water storage tanks, deployment of electro-mechanical and power systems, and the development of a comprehensive transmission and distribution network.
While formally handing over the facility to the Yobe State Government, Prof. Utsev urged the State Government to ensure inclusive stakeholder engagement and create an enabling environment for the Yobe State Water Board to sustainably manage the infrastructure for the benefit of the community.
The Minister also listed other ongoing water supply projects in the state, including the Damaturu Lots A & B Water Supply Projects, the Nguru Water Supply Project, the Fika/Gadaka Water Supply Project, and the Potiskum Water Supply Project.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving funding for the Gashua project and expressed appreciation to Governor Mai Mala Buni, the Emir of Bade, project contractors, and Ministry staff for their support and collaboration throughout the project’s execution.
In his remarks, Yobe State Governor, His Excellency Mai Mala Buni—represented by Deputy Governor Hon. Idi Barde Gubana—expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government for its intervention. He highlighted the vital role of water in healthcare and socio-economic development, citing water scarcity as a major issue in northern Yobe. He also referenced ongoing research into possible links between water quality and kidney-related health issues in the region.
Former Senate President and project initiator, Senator Ahmed Lawan, noted that the Gashua Water Supply Scheme was conceived in response to recurring outbreaks of waterborne diseases caused by contaminated water, particularly in Gashua Town. He praised President Tinubu and Prof. Utsev for their commitment to expanding access to clean water for all Nigerians.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, congratulated the Government and people of Yobe State, and encouraged the local community to take ownership of the facility to ensure its protection and long-term sustainability.
The Minister was accompanied by directors of the Ministry, and an overview of the project was presented by the Director of Water Supply and Support Services, Mr. Mukaila Segun Babarinde.
The highlight of the ceremony was the formal signing of the Gashua Water Scheme handover documents by the Minister, followed by the official commissioning of the facility—a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s drive to achieve universal access to safe water across Nigeria.
Signed:
Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan
Director, Information and Public Relations
06/05/2025
