By Muhammad Lawal

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, on Thursday inaugurated the N2 billion Yauri Water Scheme.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project was executed by the National Hydro-electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC).

The SGF said that the Scheme was a symbol of progress and part of the federal government’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

Akume, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Simeun Ugwu, traced the root of the project to the 1960s when the construction of Kanji dam was conceptualised and relocation of some communities from their original settlements was suggested.

The SGF said Yelwan Yauri was one of the towns that made significant sacrifices “for the greater good of our country.

“The federal government recognises this paradox and has been working to make water scarcity a thing of the past especially in the power producing communities across the country.

“Specialised agencies such as N-HYPPADEC have been at the forefront of this efforts, drilling both solar motorised boreholes and hand pumps to enhance water supply across all areas in which it operates.”

Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi said the project was a partnership between the Kebbi Government and N-HYPPADEC to improve the livelihood of citizens of the state.

The governor, represented by the Speaker, Kebbi House of Assembly, Alhaji Muhammad Usman-Zuru, described the project as a life saving scheme to the people of Yauri and environs.

Idris said the collaboration underscored the commitment of the state and federal government to improving the lives of the citizens, especially in critical sectors like water supply.

While appreciating N-HYPPADEC for the rehabilitation works, the governor said Yauri Water Scheme was not just an infrastructure project but a lifeline to the residents.

Idris said that the new project would have direct impact on the economic and health life of the people of the town and the state in general.

The Managing Director, N-HYPPADEC, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa, said the project was a crucial component of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

The agenda, according to him, places high premium on improving the quality of lives of Nigerians, assuring that provision of reliable and potable water was a cornerstone of the president’s vision.

He described the Kebbi Government as a steadfast partner to the commission, adding that the state government’s support had been invaluable in the implementation of various initiatives across the state.

“Today’s event justifies how much favourable atmosphere you have provided for the commission to carry out its activities in the state,” he said.

Sadiq-Yelwa lauded the Emir of Yauri, Dr Muhammad Zayyanu-Abdullahi, for proposing the project during the commission’s familiarisation tour in 2021.

“His Royal Highness proposed to the commission the urgent need for rehabilitation of Yauri Water Works.

“Your steadfast support of our activities in Yauri Emirate and ensuring the success of this project is deeply appreciated,” he said.

The MD said that the water scheme would improve the living condition of Yauri people by ensuring consistent supply of treated water to households, businesses and institutions.

Earlier, the Emir commended the commission’s laudable projects across its catchment areas across the ciuntry.

He said that the project would touch the lives of the Yauri people significantly and urged the commission to sustain the tempo for the good of Nigerians.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)