The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) with the commissioning of the rehabilitated New Bussa waterworks in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who inaugurated the project, stated that the FG is dedicated to ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation for all Nigerians.
The New Bussa waterworks, dormant for over three decades, has been restored to provide sustainable water management and improve public health in the community.
This project is especially significant for New Bussa, home to Nigeria’s largest hydroelectric dam, the Kainji Dam.
Initiated in 2023 as an intervention effort by the National Hydro Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC), the project had previously failed to deliver water to homes in New Bussa for over 30 years under the Niger State government’s management.
Speaking at the event, George Akume, represented by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sahabi Abdullahi, emphasized the project’s importance in preventing water-borne diseases and promoting public health.
Abubakar Yelwa, Managing Director and Chief Executive of N-HYPPADEC, assured New Bussa residents that the project’s commissioning marks the beginning of the commission’s ongoing commitment to the town.
He highlighted that the water scheme, a significant investment of over ₦2.1bn, demonstrates the Federal Government’s dedication to the well-being of New Bussa’s people.
The Emir of Bargu, Sani Haliru-Dantoro, expressed his excitement, noting that the restoration of the waterworks compensates for the community’s sacrifice and support for Nigeria’s electricity power supply.