Niger govt. To spend over N3.1 billion yearly to tackle  water scarcity in Minna

By Daniel Ebi, Minna

The Niger State Government has disclosed that it requires over N3.1 billion annually to sustain adequate water supply in Minna metropolis as part of ongoing efforts to address the persistent water scarcity affecting residents of the state capital.

The Commissioner for Water Resources and Environment, Alhaji Farouk Umar Audi, made this known during a media forum organized to commemorate the third anniversary of the administration of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.

According to the Commissioner, comprehensive studies conducted by the ministry revealed that the government spends approximately N264 million monthly on water production and distribution to meet the growing demand of residents in Minna.

He explained that the monthly expenditure translates to about N39 million weekly, which is required to pump potable water to the ten major reservoirs serving the metropolis.

 Nine of the reservoirs have a storage capacity of about 9,000 cubic metres each, while the reservoir located opposite the Police Secondary School has a capacity of 10,000 cubic metres.

Alhaji Audi noted that despite the enormous financial commitment, the state government remains determined to provide reliable access to clean and safe water for residents, describing water supply as a critical component of the administration’s development agenda.

The Commissioner further disclosed that through the support of development partners and intervention agencies, the government has significantly improved water supply in New Bussa, while extensive rehabilitation and upgrade works are ongoing at the Kontagora and Suleja waterworks to enhance service delivery in those urban centres.

He stated that for the entire state to enjoy adequate water supply, a total of 119 million litres of water must be pumped daily, a target the government is steadily working towards achieving through infrastructure expansion, rehabilitation of existing facilities, and improved operational efficiency

Alhaji Audi commended Governor Mohammed Umar Bago for what he described as his unwavering commitment and proactive leadership in tackling the long-standing water challenges confronting communities across the state.

He assured residents that the administration would continue to invest heavily in the water sector to ensure sustainable access to potable water, improve public health outcomes, and support economic development across Niger State.

The Commissioner expressed optimism that ongoing reforms and strategic investments would gradually bring lasting relief to residents who have endured years of inadequate water supply in many parts of the state.