The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, has pointed out that completing the Farin Ruwa Multipurpose Dam project in Nasarawa State is pivotal, emphasizing its impact on water supply, irrigation, hydro-power generation, and employment opportunities. Utsev addressed this topic during a visit from the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule and delegation to his office. The project’s close proximity to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and neighboring states was highlighted as a key factor in its potential to positively influence regional development, in accordance with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governor Abdullahi was given an update on the Farin Ruwa Dam, which has a hydro-power capacity of around 25 mgts and is part of the 2024 budget. Construction is moving forward effectively with the embankments complete and attention now on the crest level. Once finished, the dam will ensure a reliable water supply for homes, agriculture, and power generation, among other benefits. He observed that the impact of this initiative will not be limited to Nasarawa State alone; it will also reach neighboring Benue State and the FCT, leading to the creation of employment opportunities, the generation of wealth, and the guarantee of food security.
Government should carry out water and sanitation initiatives.
Utsev noted that the Doma Dam in Nasarawa State has been identified by the Federal Government for rehabilitation. The minister further conveyed appreciation for the Governor’s visit and reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the Nasarawa State government on projects concerning food security, water supply, and hydro-power generation. He explained that it is of utmost importance for the Federal Government in carrying out water and Sanitation initiatives in various states, and urged the state governments to also actively engage in joint endeavors to benefit the public.
It was also revealed that the transfer of water from Gurara Dam to Usman Dam below is ongoing, with the goal of enhancing the lives of people in FCT and Nasarawa, as well as those living nearby. This project demonstrates the government’s dedication to providing better access to water and improving distribution, ultimately benefiting the community’s welfare. The Governor was encouraged by the Minister to support the ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign’ in order to help Nasarawa State become an Open Defecation free (ODF) state. This aligns with the national objective to achieve ODF status by 2025.
Dam challenges affects water supply, power generation.
Only Jigawa State has achieved ODF status at the moment, he declared. Stressing the significance of the campaign, he highlighted its role in eliminating waterborne illnesses such as Typhoid fever, diarrhea, and malaria, ultimately boosting Public Health and supporting the nation’s prosperity. In his earlier address, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule congratulated the newly appointed Minister and Minister of State by the President, emphasizing the crucial responsibility of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in overseeing water resources, dams, irrigation, and water supply throughout the country.
Recognizing the importance of the Ministry in implementing President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, he noted that Nasarawa State is dedicated to partnering with the Ministry on projects designed specifically for state governments. Engr. Kana Ahmed Abubakar, FNSE, the General Manager of the Nasarawa State Water Board, also voiced the same opinion, highlighting the obstacles faced by the state in relation to its dams. He pointed out the negative effects the challenges have had on water supply, power generation, and Irrigation operations in the state.
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Despite this, he also mentioned that the state is prepared to work together with the Ministry on its innovative projects, showing a mutual dedication to overcoming these obstacles and enhancing the well-being of the population. Present at the meeting were the Minister of State, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Alh. Aliyu Shehu Shinkafi, FCNA, Esq. the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, as well as various directors and employees from the Ministry. There was also a team from the Governor’s office in attendance, demonstrating the joint work of federal and state authorities in tackling issues related to water resource management and sanitation.