By correspondent in Minna.
The residents of New-Bussa, Niger State, are rejoicing following the inauguration of their long-awaited government water works project, which had been stalled for over 30 years.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, marked this significant milestone for the Bola Tinubu administration by officially launching the rehabilitated and expanded New Bussa water scheme.
In a speech delivered by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Alhaji Aliyu Sabi-Abdullahi, Akume emphasized the project’s importance in advancing the federal government’s commitment to distributing the benefits of democracy throughout Nigeria.
He noted that the initiative, executed by the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), would significantly address the area’s potable water challenges.
Akume stated, “We gather here to inaugurate the newly rehabilitated Water Works of New Bussa, a project that exemplifies the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing the living conditions of citizens at the grassroots level.”
He expressed optimism that the improved water supply would bolster public health, reduce water-borne diseases, support local businesses, attract investment, and contribute to the overall development of New Bussa and its environs.
He said that the project aligned with the federal government’s goals of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa, Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, praised the project not only for upgrading infrastructure but also for transforming the quality of life for the local population.
He expressed gratitude to Akume for his dedication to the welfare of Nigerians.
The Emir of Borgu, Dr. Sani Halilu-Dantoro, described the inauguration as a fulfillment of a promise made 50 years ago, marking a dream realized for the people of Borgu kingdom. Reflecting on the project’s history, the Emir noted that the lack of potable water, despite the proximity of Nigeria’s largest lake, Kainji, had long been a significant issue for the community.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
