The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Sen. George Akume, on Thursday, inaugurated the N2 billion Yauri Water Scheme.
In a speech athe ceremony held at the Emir’s Palace, Yauri in Kebbi, Mr Akume said the rehabilitation of water scheme was a symbol of progress, development and Federal Government’s commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Simeon Ugwu, said the gigantic project, initiated by N-HYPPADEC several years ago, was a subtle initiative of the commission under its pioneer managing director.
He traced the root of the project to the 1960s, when the construction of Kanji dam was conceptualised and it was suggested relocating some communities from their original settlements.
The SGF said Yelwan Yauri was one of those towns that made significant sacrifices “for the greater good of our country.
“The Federal Government recognises this paradox and has been working to make water scarcity a thing of the past, especially in the power-producing communities across the country.
“Specialised agencies such as N-HYPPADEC, have been at the forefront of this efforts, drilling both solar motorised boreholes and hand pumps to enhance water supply across all areas in which the commission operates.”
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi said the project was a partnership between the Kebbi Government and N-HYPPADEC to improve the livelihood of citizens of the state.
The governor, represented by the Speaker, Kebbi House of Assembly, Muhammad Usman-Zuru, described the project as a life-saving scheme “in view of the fact that water is life.”
He said the collaboration underscored the commitment of the State and Federal Governments toward improving the lives of the citizens, especially in a critical sector like water supply.
While appreciating N-HYPPADEC for the rehabilitation works, the governor said Yauri Water Scheme was not just an infrastructure project but a lifeline to the citizenry.
He said that water is fundamental to human existence, to health and sustainable development.
The Managing Director, N-HYPPADEC, Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa, said the project was a crucial component of Renewed Hope Agenda under the examplary leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
The agenda, according to him, places high premium on improving the quality of lives of Nigerians, assuring that provision of clean, safe, reliable and potable water was a cornerstone of the president’s vision.
He described Kebbi Government as a steadfast partner to the commission, adding that the state government’s support had been invaluable in the implementation of various initiatives across the state.
“Today’s event justifies how much favourable atmosphere you have provided for the commission to carry out its activities in the state,” he said.
Mr Sadiq-Yelwa lauded the Emir of Yauri, Dr Muhammad Zayyanu-Abdullahi, for proposing the project during the commission’s familiarisation tour in 2021.
“His Royal Highness proposed to the commission the urgent need for rehabilitation of Yauri Water Works.
“Your steadfast support of our activities in Yauri Emirate helped to ensure the success of this project.
“We are deeply appreciative of your wisdom and guidance,” he said.
He said that the scheme would significantly improve the living condition of Yauri people by ensuring consistent supply of treated water to the households, businesses and institutions.
Earlier, the Emir lauded the commission for executing project that touch the lives of the generality of the people and urged it to sustain the tempo for the good of all.
NAN
