The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has flagged off three critical water supply projects in Benue State as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The projects which includes rehabilitation and upgrading of the Buruku-Gboko Water Supply Project, Rehabilitation and Improvement of the Wannune Water Supply Project, and Construction of the Ugbema Water Supply Project are aimed at expanding access to potable water, improving public health, and mitigating the prevalence of waterborne diseases in the state.
Speaking at the flag off ceremony in Gboko, Benue State, on March 27, 2025, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable water infrastructure.
“These projects are not just about water supply; they are about transforming lives. Access to clean water is fundamental to health, economic growth, and social development. With these projects, we are ensuring that residents of Buruku, Gboko, Mkar, Ugbema, Wannune, and surrounding communities no longer suffer from inadequate water supply,” Utsev stated.
“The Buruku-Gboko Water Supply Scheme seeks to rehabilitate vandalized infrastructure and restore potable water to over 506,000 residents. The project involves drawing water from the Katsina Ala River, treating it, and distributing it across key communities”, he added.
Utsev revealed that the ₦18.89 billion project was approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and awarded to Messrs Ceylon Construction Services Limited with an estimated completion timeline of 18 months.
“The rehabilitation of the Gboko Water Intake and Treatment Plant includes modern pumping systems adaptable to solar power, restoration of the 7km transmission main, and installation of a 150m³/hr Package Water Treatment Plant at Buruku station. These will collectively enhance efficiency and reliability,” he explained.
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Sam Ode, hailed the initiative, describing it as a long-overdue intervention that would significantly improve the well-being of Benue residents.
“This project is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians. Water is life, and this administration has demonstrated that it prioritizes the needs of the people. We must work together to ensure the sustainability of these projects,” Ode remarked.
The Ugbema Water Supply Project involves the construction of five standalone solar-powered boreholes with fetching points and lighting, four industrial solar-powered boreholes, a 200m³ Braithwaite surface tank, a 150m³ elevated tank on a 12m stand, and a 50m³/hr treatment plant.
Similarly, the Wannune Water Supply Project consists of four industrial solar-powered boreholes, each with a 100m³ elevated steel-welded tank, a mini treatment plant, power connections, and solar lighting to enhance functionality.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to ensuring that the projects meet the highest standards and are completed on schedule.
“These projects are part of the broader effort to achieve sustainable water supply across the country. We are not just providing water; we are securing the health and future of communities,” Pheelangwah noted.
The Director of Water Supply and Support Services, Babarinde Mukaila, added that the newly rehabilitated water schemes are expected to provide a sustainable and efficient water system, ensuring that residents of Buruku, Gboko, Mkar, Ugbema, Wannune, and adjoining areas enjoy uninterrupted access to potable water.
The inauguration of these projects marks another milestone in the Federal Government’s commitment to closing the infrastructure gap in the water sector and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
