By Hussaina Yakubu
Gov. Uba Sani has disclosed that the water production of Kaduna State has increased from 8 per cent to over 30 per cent in the last two and half years as a result of a comprehensive overhaul of infrastructure.
The governor, who made this known when the management of the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI) paid him a courtesy call, pledged a 100 per cent coverage across Kaduna State by late 2026.
He lamented, “For over a decade, our water sector suffered from systemic neglect.
“When this administration assumed office, we encountered a sector in deep distress—treatment plants were dormant, distribution networks had been severely compromised by past urban renewal projects, and overall water production had fallen to a staggering 8 per cent.”
Sani disclosed that his administration then embarked on an unprecedented journey to comprehensively overhaul Kaduna State’s water infrastructure.
According to him, his government had committed between ₦93billion and ₦100 billion over the next four years, from 2024 to 2027, to ensure that every household in Kaduna State enjoyed a steady and reliable supply of clean water.’’
The governor said that his administration spent over ₦5billion replacing pipes lost to vandalism and damaged during past urban renewal projects in Zaria and Kafanchan.
“A further ₦10billion investment in replacement of priority and critical pipelines for Kaduna is ongoing,’’ he said, adding that, “we have invested ₦1.4billion in high-quality water purification chemicals.’’
According to the governor, his administration had cleared ₦1.3billion in outstanding electricity bills to keep pumps running to guarantee uninterrupted operations.
He pointed out that Kaduna State Government had not only invested in water infrastructure renewal, but also “prioritised the welfare of workers who make things happen in the water sector.’’
The governor added that he had cleared the salary arrears of Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC) staffers, amounting to over N900million and integrated the workforce into the heart of the reform agenda.
“I have also approved the allocation of land for a Mass Housing Project in Millennium City, Kaduna.
“We want the professionals who safeguard our water resources to have a place they can proudly call home,’’ he disclosed.
The governor promised to collaborate with the National Water Resources Institute for long-term sustainability, which requires not only infrastructure but expertise.
He allocated land to the establishment of branches of the institute in Zaria and Kachia, adding that they would bridge critical training gaps and ensure that the state agencies are staffed by some of the best-trained water professionals in the country.
Earlier, the Director-General of the institute, Dr Abduljalal Danbaba, said that (NWRI) had both academic and research mandates, adding that it harmonises the activities of the 12 River Basins in the country.
He disclosed that the institute had been recognised as a World Metrological Centre in Africa, disclosing that NWRI advises the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation on manpower needs and training.
Danbaba disclosed that the institute wants to boost its enrolment and that it is offering complimentary forms to the Kaduna State Government for short-term courses to enhance its manpower development.
The director-general pointed out that the beneficiaries would only pay 50 per cent of the registration fees. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
