100% water coverage in Kaduna
Access to clean, potable water is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of urban development. In a bold move to transform the living standards of residents, Governor Uba Sani has announced an ambitious roadmap to achieve 100% water coverage across Kaduna State by late 2026.
This announcement came during a high-level courtesy visit by the management of the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI) to the Government House. The Governor’s commitment marks a significant turning point for a sector that has faced over a decade of systemic neglect and infrastructural decay.
From 8% to 30%: The Story of a Resilient Recovery
When the current administration took office, the water sector in Kaduna was in a state of “deep distress.” Governor Sani revealed that overall water production had plummeted to a staggering 8%. Treatment plants were dormant, and critical distribution networks had been severely compromised by previous urban renewal projects and vandalism.
However, through a comprehensive overhaul of infrastructure, the administration has successfully raised water production from 8% to over 30% in just two and a half years.
A ₦100 Billion Investment in Kaduna’s Future
To ensure that every household in Kaduna enjoys a steady and reliable supply of clean water, the State Government has committed between ₦93 billion and ₦100 billion for the period of 2024 to 2027.
This massive financial injection is being strategically deployed across several key areas:
- Infrastructure Restoration: Over ₦5 billion has already been spent replacing pipes lost to vandalism and damage during past construction works in Zaria and Kafanchan.
- Ongoing Pipeline Replacement: A further ₦10 billion investment is currently being utilized for the replacement of priority and critical pipelines within Kaduna metropolis.
- Operational Excellence: The government has invested ₦1.4 billion in high-quality water purification chemicals and cleared ₦1.3 billion in outstanding electricity bills to ensure that water pumps run without interruption.
Prioritizing the Human Element: Staff Welfare and Training
Governor Uba Sani emphasized that infrastructure alone cannot solve the water crisis; it requires motivated professionals. To this end, the administration has cleared over ₦900 million in salary arrears for the staff of the Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC).
Furthermore, in a move to provide long-term security for water sector workers, the Governor approved a Mass Housing Project in Millennium City, Kaduna, specifically for these professionals.
”We want the professionals who safeguard our water resources to have a place they can proudly call home,” Sani stated, reinforcing his commitment to worker welfare as a pillar of his reform agenda.
Strengthening Partnerships: Collaboration with NWRI
Sustainability is the ultimate goal of the Kaduna water reform. To achieve this, the state is partnering with the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI) to bridge training gaps.
Governor Sani has allocated land for the establishment of NWRI branches in Zaria and Kachia. These centers will serve as hubs for training and research, ensuring that Kaduna’s water agencies are staffed by the best-trained professionals in the country.
The Director-General of NWRI, Dr. Abduljalal Danbaba, lauded the Governor’s efforts. He noted that the Institute, which is recognized as a World Meteorological Centre in Africa, is ready to support Kaduna through manpower development and subsidized training courses for state staff.
What This Means for Kaduna Residents
The transition toward 100% water coverage is more than just a political promise; it is a multi-billion naira reality that is already yielding results. For the residents of Kaduna, Zaria, Kafanchan, and surrounding local governments, this means:
- Improved Public Health: Access to clean water significantly reduces the prevalence of water-borne diseases.
- Economic Growth: Reliable water supply is essential for industrial growth and small businesses.
- Urban Modernization: The replacement of aged pipes ensures that the state’s infrastructure matches its growing population.
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