World Water Day: Kaduna boosts supply, targets universal access

n n

The Kaduna State Government on Monday said ongoing reforms in the water sector have begun to yield measurable gains, with improved supply and expanded access recorded across the state.

n

The government disclosed this as part of activities marking the 2026 World Water Day, highlighting efforts to reposition the sector for sustainability and efficiency.

n

The Commissioner for Information, Malam Maiyaki, said the reforms were driven by Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to improving the quality of life for residents.

n

According to him, the administration’s approach goes beyond emergency fixes to building a resilient and inclusive water system.

n

“Governor Uba Sani’s intervention in the water sector is deliberate and far-reaching—focused not only on restoring infrastructure but on building a resilient, efficient, and people-centred system that guarantees access to safe water for all,” he said.

n

Maiyaki noted that about 1.5 million residents have benefited from improved water, sanitation, and hygiene services under the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Programme.

n

He added that the initiative had contributed to better public health outcomes and enhanced socio-economic activities in communities.

n

The commissioner recalled that the government declared a state of emergency in the water sector in 2023 to accelerate reforms and address longstanding challenges.

n

He said part of the intervention included the payment of ₦900 million in salary arrears owed to staff of the Kaduna State Water Corporation.

n

Maiyaki further disclosed that the government procured 1,300 metric tonnes of water treatment chemicals valued at ₦1.5 billion, with an additional 3,500 metric tonnes underway.

n

He said the state also embarked on the rehabilitation of major water facilities in Kaduna, Zaria, Kafanchan, Kwoi, Manchok, and Kagoro.

n

According to him, these interventions have increased water production capacity from 450 million litres per day in 2023 to 530.66 million litres per day in 2025.

n

He added that over ₦16 billion had been committed to the rehabilitation of six major water treatment plants to stabilise supply.

n

The commissioner said the government had also expanded pipeline networks, constructed new reservoirs, and installed critical equipment to improve distribution.

n

“We are not only increasing capacity but ensuring that water gets to households efficiently through upgraded infrastructure and improved management systems,” he said.

n

Maiyaki noted that reforms in governance, including automated billing systems and the recovery of ₦5.74 billion in counterpart funding for the Zaria Water Project, were strengthening the sector.

n

He added that the ongoing review of the State Water Law would further enhance regulation and service delivery.

n

The commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to sustain the reforms and ensure equitable access to clean and safe water for all residents of the state.

n n