Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has commissioned a multi-billion naira urban water project in Sokoto State, describing it as a testament to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a symbol of responsive, people-centered governance.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Sokoto, he praised the Sokoto State Government for completing a project that had lingered for years, commending the political will and focus of Governor Ahmed Aliyu that made it possible.
“I am particularly delighted because this is a true reflection of the story of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who has given me the Renewed Hope Agenda, as a fellow in government, I fully understand the determination, ambition, and commitment it takes to weather the storm and complete a project of this scale”.
He expressed confidence in the direction of the federal administration and reassured Sokoto residents of President Tinubu’s full support. “Mr. President is fully behind your governor. Our relationship across states is built on a common vision for progress, and I am grateful to be here to witness this.”
The water scheme, one of six key projects under Sokoto’s urban water expansion plan, is designed to supply 3 million gallons of water daily. The full scheme will deliver over 40 million gallons per day to Sokoto city and surrounding areas.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu stated that the six water projects were awarded at a cost of over N14 billion and is expected to significantly improve water availability in the state.
He said the project was first initiated by the former governor Aliyu Wamakko. “Today, we build on that foundation to ensure continuity, progress, and sustainability in service to our people”
Other schemes under the same water infrastructure plan include the Old Airport, Gagi, Mana, Runjinsambo, and Rugar Liman water schemes.
Emphasizing the broader goals of the initiative, the governor said his mission is to ensure health, sanitation, and environmental sustainability, adding that access to clean and potable water is not just a basic necessity, it is a fundamental human right and a vital component of public health, social development, and economic progress.
Also commissioned by the visiting governor was the Mabera Area road network in the state metropolis. Before the intervention of the Aliyu Sokoto administration, the area was flood prone, making life a misery for the inhabitants of the area. The road projects are powered by solar street lights, which have beautified and added value to landed property in the area.
He called on residents, especially in the host community, to take ownership of the project and guard it against vandalism or misuse. “This facility belongs to all of us. Let us protect it and ensure it serves future generations.”
Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto called on the opposition in the state to bury all political differences and join hands with his administration for the development of the state promising to provide more critical infrastructure that benefits citizens across the state.
He appealed to the people of the state to safeguard all infrastructural projects provided for them by the government assuring that his administration would continue to strive to meet the aspirations and yearnings of the people of the state for developmental projects.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
