The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the construction of the Greater Dutse Water Supply Project, a transformative initiative aimed at addressing water supply challenges in Jigawa State. The project was officially flagged off at a ground-breaking ceremony held in Sintilmawa, Dutse, this week.
The Minister, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, through a press release, described the project as a significant milestone that will enhance the quality of life for over 1.5 million residents of Dutse and its environs. He explained that the initiative seeks to bridge a daily water supply deficit of 10 million liters, following meticulous planning that included an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and detailed designs.
He said the Federal Executive Council, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, approved ₦59.46 billion for the project, which is expected to be completed within 24 months. Utsev outlined its key components, including the construction of 35 industrial boreholes with solar-powered pumps, a 1,000m³/hr water treatment plant, reinforced concrete storage tanks, and Braithwaite tanks at strategic locations.
Additionally, he noted that the project will involve the laying of 56.6km of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipelines for water transmission, solar system installations, transformers, and generators, as well as the development of administrative and staff facilities at project sites.
The Minister emphasised the multifaceted benefits of the project, which include job creation, economic growth stimulation, and improved access to clean and safe drinking water. He also announced the formation of a Project Implementation Unit comprising representatives from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, and the Jigawa State Government to ensure its timely completion and adherence to budgetary provisions.
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, who was present at the ceremony, commended the Federal Government’s commitment to resolving the water scarcity issues in Dutse and surrounding areas, emphasising the development’s alignment with President Tinubu’s focus on infrastructure and basic amenities.
Utsev highlighted a project overview presented by Mr kaila Babarinde, director of Water Supply Services at the Ministry of Water Resources, alongside the attendance of the Permanent Secretary, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the water resources sector.
The event concluded with the ground-breaking and the official handover of the project to the contractor for immediate commencement, marking a significant step towards addressing Dutse’s perennial water challenges.
