Politics
THE Kaduna State Government says it will invest N93 billion to overhaul the state’s water sector within the next four years.
The Commissioner for Public Works and Infrastructure, Alhaji Ibrahim Hamza, disclosed this at a press conference on Wednesday in Kaduna.
Hamza said the action was necessary in view of neglect of the sector for more than a decade.
He said N17 billion would be allocated this year, N35 billion in 2025, N30 billion in 2026 and N11 billion in 2027.
The commissioner further explained that the government’s investment would target the rehabilitation of water treatment plants and distribution networks as well as sanitation and hygiene.
According to him, previous administrations have invested $50 million in urban water supply but capacity utilisation drop from 43 per cent in 2017 to eight per cent in 2023.
“This reforms to enhancing water service delivery is working closely with local government areas to ensure efficient generation, maintenance and reinforcement of water laws,’’ he said.
He, however, said that the state government has approved the recovery of N5.74 billion in counterpart funding for Zaria 150 MLD water project in line with national and state water policies.
“Gov. Uba Sani has also authorised the payment of N800 million outstanding salaries and wages to employees of the Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC),’’ the commissioner said.
Hamza added that the KADSWAC staff would be reintegrated into the state payroll up to 2027 when the corporation stabilise and operate as a self-sustaining entity.
“Also, the sales of KADSWAC quarters and facilities has been suspended to maintain public ownership of essential infrastructure,’’ he said. (NAN)
6th November, 2024.
C.E.
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