Sokoto Governor Unveils N14 Billion Water Scheme to Tackle Urban Scarcity
Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has unveiled a major urban water supply project worth ₦14.1 billion aimed at addressing long-standing water scarcity in the state capital and surrounding areas.
The flagship component of the initiative, the Tamaje Water Scheme, was formally commissioned this week, marking what the governor described as a historic milestone in the administration’s commitment to providing clean, accessible water to the people of Sokoto.
The Tamaje scheme, now fully operational, is designed to produce 3 million gallons of potable water per day. It is the first of six township water schemes being developed to meet the growing demands of Sokoto’s rapidly expanding population.
Other schemes under the initiative include Old Airport, Mana, Gagi, Runjin Sambo, and Ruga Liman, which, when completed, are expected to collectively supply over 40 million gallons of water daily.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Governor Aliyu emphasized that access to clean water is a fundamental human right and an essential part of public health and socio-economic development.
He lamented the long-standing water crises faced by residents, many of whom have had to rely on private vendors and boreholes, often at exorbitant prices and with questionable water quality.
“For far too long, our people have endured untold hardship in accessing clean water. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter where access to potable water will no longer be a luxury but a reality for every resident,” the governor declared.
Residents in various parts of Sokoto had previously reported spending between ₦200 and ₦300 for a single jerrycan of water due to frequent breakdowns in supply infrastructure and electricity challenges that crippled water pumping systems.
The new scheme is expected to bring lasting relief, particularly to low-income communities that have borne the brunt of the water shortages.
The governor also paid tribute to former Governor Aliyu Wamakko for initiating the broader urban water development vision that laid the groundwork for the current achievements. He noted that his administration had inherited many incomplete or abandoned projects and was determined to complete and operationalize them for the benefit of the public.
Governor Aliyu further announced that his administration is investing significantly in the Sokoto State Water Board to ensure that the newly completed and ongoing schemes are not only functional but sustainable.
This includes improvements in power supply infrastructure, training of personnel, and the deployment of modern management systems to maintain efficiency and accountability.
Joining Governor Aliyu at the commissioning ceremony was Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who praised the Sokoto government’s bold investment in infrastructure. He also linked the achievement to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes essential services and grassroots development.
The commissioning of the Tamaje scheme was met with enthusiasm by community members, many of whom expressed hope that the project would finally put an end to their years of water insecurity.
Construction work on the remaining five township water schemes is said to be progressing steadily, with the governor expressing optimism that all components of the ₦14.1 billion project will be fully operational before the end of 2025.
