The Federal Government has committed to revamping ongoing water projects across Nigeria in an effort to enhance water access for citizens.
This announcement came as the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engineer Joseph Utsev, conducted an inspection of water projects in Osun State as part of a broader assessment of water infrastructure in the southwestern region.
During his tour, the Minister visited key sites, including the Ilesa Water Dam in Kajola and the Ife Water Dam at Ogudu, alongside several sanitation projects in the area.
Engineer Utsev, who was accompanied by the Osun State Commissioner for Water Resources, Mr. Sunday Oroniyi, held discussions with consultants at the dam sites on Wednesday and Thursday. The meetings were aimed at addressing challenges and finding effective solutions to ensure adequate water supply.
Speaking to the press at the Ilesa Dam site, the Minister explained that the three-day inspection tour across the southwest is part of a national initiative to improve water supply for Nigerians.
“We have been conducting inspections across the country, and our focus is currently on the Southwest Zone, which has brought us to these dam sites in Osun State. The purpose of these dams is to supply water to treatment plants for distribution to the local communities. However, I have observed that the current water capacity at these sites is insufficient for the intended supply,” the Minister stated.
He further noted that after reviewing reports from consultants and stakeholders, the government will explore various environmentally friendly and cost-effective options to ensure adequate water availability for the public.
Engineer Utsev also emphasized that following his nationwide tour of water and other project sites, the Ministry will implement measures to ensure that Nigerians receive value for the investments made in these projects.
In his remarks, Osun State Commissioner for Water Resources, Sunday Oroniyi, described the Minister’s visit as a significant step towards revitalizing both the Ilesa and Ile-Ife water projects.
“I believe the Minister’s visit will bring much-needed progress. The Ilesa Dam project has faced delays, and this fact-finding mission is crucial to understanding and resolving the issues. Once we identify the problems, we will work towards finding solutions,” Oroniyi added.
