The significant investment by Governor Uba Sani in Kaduna State’s water sector has begun to yield tangible results, marking a new era of improved access for residents. This unprecedented increase in water supply across various areas of Kaduna is a direct manifestation of the administration’s commitment to vital infrastructure. The Commissioner of Public Works and Infrastructure, Arc Ibrahim Hamza, highlighted these positive developments, underscoring the long-term vision for sustainable water solutions. His statements confirm that the strategic reforms initiated are not merely theoretical but are actively addressing long-standing challenges in the region.
For years, many communities in Kaduna State grappled with chronic water scarcity, a situation that impacted daily life and public health. Governor Sani’s declaration of a state of emergency in the water sector in 2023 was a pivotal moment, signaling a decisive shift towards comprehensive solutions. This bold move paved the way for massive investment, the clearing of significant salary arrears for water corporation staff, and the recruitment of experienced leadership for the Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC). These foundational steps were crucial in revitalizing an ailing system and setting the stage for the current improvements.
What is KADSWAC’s role in Kaduna’s water supply? The Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC) is the primary body responsible for the provision, management, and distribution of potable water across the state, overseeing treatment plants, distribution networks, and customer services to ensure reliable access for all residents.
Several key areas, including Tudun Wada, Malali, Unguwan Dosa, Doka ward, Unguwan Rimi, Barnawa, and Narayi, have experienced a notable increase in water supply since December. This is largely attributed to the successful rehabilitation of the Malali Water Works, which is now operating at optimum capacity. The impact is significant, bringing relief to households that had not received consistent water supply for as long as seven years. This immediate improvement demonstrates the efficacy of targeted infrastructure upgrades and efficient management.
Beyond Malali, the administration has also ensured that both the 150 MLD and 10 MLD Zaria Water Works are fully operational, providing steady water supply to residents in Zaria and its environs. The commitment extends further to the southern parts of the state, with major repairs completed at the Kafanchan Water Treatment Plant. As a result, towns and surrounding local government areas in the Kafanchan region are now benefiting from enhanced water availability, showcasing a holistic approach to improving water infrastructure in Nigeria.
Arc Ibrahim Hamza emphasized the long-term goal of these extensive reforms: to render boreholes redundant throughout the state. This ambitious vision aims to ensure that residents will have no further need for private boreholes once all water treatment plants across Kaduna are up and running efficiently. It speaks to a future where public water supply is so reliable and widespread that it becomes the sole, preferred source for all communities. This commitment directly addresses the challenges of Kaduna water supply vs boreholes, aiming to elevate the public system.
Governor Uba Sani’s strategic plan involves an investment of N93 billion over four years, allocated in four tranches, to comprehensively address the neglect of the past 11 years in the water sector. This substantial financial commitment underscores the scale of the challenge and the determination to overcome it. The initial phases of this plan included settling N800 million in outstanding salaries and wages for KADSWAC staff and reintegrating the corporation into the state’s payroll, stabilizing its financial foundation.
Furthermore, the administration cleared KADSWAC’s outstanding electricity bill of N1.3 billion, removing a major operational impediment. The appointment of Engr Kabir Rufai, an individual with three decades of experience in the water sector, as the substantive Managing Director for KADSWAC, brought invaluable expertise to lead the reforms. These actions collectively form a robust framework for the Kaduna water project for residents, ensuring both financial stability and skilled leadership.
Kaduna State has also heavily invested in the rehabilitation and retrofitting of all water treatment plants and distribution mains. This process places a strong emphasis on sanitation and hygiene, recognizing that clean water is paramount for public health. The comprehensive upgrades are designed to enhance both the quantity and quality of water delivered to homes and businesses across the state, reflecting best practices for water management in Nigeria.
While the government is making monumental strides, the Commissioner also called upon Kaduna residents to play their part by paying their water bills promptly. He advised KADSWAC staff to remain diligent in their duties, stressing that collective responsibility is key to sustaining these improvements. These vital Uba Sani water reforms explained here are set to continue transforming Kaduna’s access to this essential resource for years to come.
