Radda commissions Tsagero water scheme, vows sustained investment in water sector

Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times 

Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has commissioned the Tsagero Small Town Water Supply Scheme in Rimi Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to expanding access to clean and safe water across the state.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Radda said the project was a demonstration of his government's resolve to improve the living conditions of residents through the provision of critical social infrastructure.

He described access to clean and reliable water as a basic human necessity and a key driver of public health, economic productivity and sustainable development.

“Today is not only a day of celebration for the people of Tsagero and neighbouring communities, but also a clear demonstration of our administration’s commitment to improving the quality of life of our people through the provision of essential public services,” the governor said.

According to him, the water scheme will provide potable water to households, schools, healthcare facilities and businesses, while reducing the burden of water collection, particularly for women and children.

He said the project would also improve sanitation and hygiene, strengthen public health outcomes and support economic activities in the area.

Radda disclosed that the water sector remains one of the top priorities of his administration, with significant budgetary allocations dedicated to improving water infrastructure and service delivery across Katsina State.

The governor highlighted ongoing interventions in the sector, including the provision of diesel and treatment chemicals for water production, rehabilitation of water facilities, installation of pumps and motors, and the implementation of the multi-billion naira Ajiwa Water Supply Expansion Project.

He also noted that additional investments were being leveraged through development partners, including the World Bank-supported Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme and the SPIN project.

According to him, the state government is implementing several water and sanitation projects across local government areas, including the installation of a 30,000-litre-per-hour water treatment plant, construction of household sanitation facilities and public hygiene infrastructure.

Radda revealed that 32 water schemes had already been completed and were either operational or awaiting commissioning.

He, however, stressed that the sustainability of water infrastructure depends on proper management, regular maintenance and community ownership.

“I call on community leaders, Water Users Associations and relevant institutions to work together in protecting and sustaining this investment. This project belongs to the people of Tsagero and must be protected for future generations,” he said.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Mannir Ayuba Sullubawa, described the project as a major milestone in the government's efforts to improve access to safe drinking water in rural communities.

He said the scheme comprises 10 boreholes, a 300,000-litre ground reservoir, a 100,000-litre elevated overhead tank mounted on a 9.3-metre tower and 30 public water collection points strategically located across the community.

“This is not just the commissioning of a water facility; it is the opening of opportunities for better health, dignity, productivity and a brighter future for the people of Zagero and surrounding communities,” Sullubawa said.

The commissioner commended Governor Radda for supporting initiatives aimed at improving water supply and sanitation services across the state.

Also speaking, Dr Idris Isyaku, who represented the Executive Director of the Katsina State Small Town Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (STOWASSA), Ibrahim Lawal Dankaba, said the project reflected the government's commitment to addressing the water needs of rural communities.

He urged residents to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance to guarantee its sustainability.

The ceremony was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, development partners and residents from Tsagero and neighbouring communities.