Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has launched the ₦31.8 billion Zobe Phase 1B Water Project, a long-awaited initiative aimed at providing clean and safe water to more than 16 communities across the state.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at the Kafin Soli Booster Station on Wednesday, Governor Radda described the project as “a promise finally fulfilled,” noting that it marks the end of over four decades of waiting since the completion of the Zobe Dam in 1983.
“This project is not just about pipes and pumps; it’s about life, health, and dignity,” Radda said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring every citizen enjoys access to potable water.
The Governor explained that the project, being executed by Mutual Commitment Company Limited (MCC), would not only deliver clean water but also boost agriculture, job creation, and industrial growth.
He emphasized that his government would ensure transparency and strict supervision throughout the implementation process to guarantee quality delivery and timely completion.
Radda also linked the initiative to the broader Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programme supported by the World Bank, which is already expanding access to clean water in eight local government areas of the state. He further revealed that rehabilitation works are ongoing at Ajiwa, Danja, and Sabuwa Dams as part of efforts to enhance water security across Katsina.
“Our goal is not just to build new systems but to create sustainable infrastructure that will serve generations to come,” he stated.
According to the Governor, the Zobe Phase 1B Project will supply water to communities including Karofi-Radda, Kafin Soli, Tafashiya, Kankia, Koda-Charanchi, Yarranda, Tashar Albasa, Are-Cika Koshi, Faduma, Tudun Kaadir, Rijiya Mai Siminti, Lambar Rimi, Abukur, Tashar Bala, and Batagarawa.
Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr. Bishir Gambo Saulawa, described the flag-off as a major milestone in Governor Radda’s efforts to ensure safe and reliable water for residents of Dutsin-Ma, Kankia, Charanchi, Batagarawa, and Katsina local government areas.
He said the project reflects the administration’s belief that access to clean water is a fundamental right, noting that it will help reduce waterborne diseases and improve public health.
The Managing Director of the Katsina State Water Board, Engr. Tukur Tinglin, explained that Phase 1A of the project—completed in July 2022—produces between 40 and 45 million litres of water daily, against the over 130 million litres required for the Katsina metropolis.
“That is why Phase 1B is so critical. It extends the distribution network to homes, schools, and businesses, transforming forty years of waiting into a new era of progress,” Tinglin stated.
On his part, the Group Managing Director of MCC Limited, Mr. Liu Zhaolong, commended Governor Radda for his leadership and timely interventions that revived the Zobe project after decades of delay.
He disclosed that the project is fully funded by the Katsina State Government and pledged that MCC would complete it within one year, adhering to high standards and providing training for local engineers.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the District Head of Dutsin-Ma, Alhaji Sada Mohammed Sada, and former Military Governor of Katsina State, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (Rtd.), who both described the project as the fulfilment of a long-awaited dream.
Chairman of Kankia Local Government, Hon. Lawal Abdullahi, who delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the benefiting LGAs, commended the Governor for what he described as a “life-changing intervention.”
Dignitaries at the event included the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari; local government chairmen; members of the State Executive Council; representatives of the Chief Judge and Grand Khadi; and traditional leaders from Katsina and Daura Emirates.
By Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State
5th November, 2025
