The Federal Government has inaugurated three key water supply projects in Benue State, aimed at expanding access to potable water, improving public health, and curbing waterborne diseases.

The Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, in a statement, on Friday, said the projects—rehabilitation and upgrading of the Buruku-Gboko Water Supply Project, improvement of the Wannune Water Supply Project, and construction of the Ugbema Water Supply Project—align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Gboko on March 27, 2025, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, emphasized the government’s commitment to sustainable water infrastructure.

“These projects are not just about water supply; they are about transforming lives. Access to clean water is fundamental to health, economic growth, and social development. With these projects, we are ensuring that residents of Buruku, Gboko, Mkar, Ugbema, Wannune, and surrounding communities no longer suffer from inadequate water supply,” Utsev said.

The Buruku-Gboko Water Supply Scheme, designed to rehabilitate vandalized infrastructure, is expected to restore potable water to over 506,000 residents, adding that It involves drawing water from the Katsina Ala River, treating it, and distributing it across key communities.

The minister said the ₦18.89 billion project, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), was awarded to Messrs Ceylon Construction Services Limited with an estimated completion period of 18 months.

“The rehabilitation of the Gboko Water Intake and Treatment Plant includes modern pumping systems adaptable to solar power, restoration of the 7km transmission main, and installation of a 150m³/hr Package Water Treatment Plant at Buruku station. These will collectively enhance efficiency and reliability,” Utsev explained.

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Sam Ode, commended the initiative, describing it as a crucial intervention to improve the well-being of Benue residents.

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“This project is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians. Water is life, and this administration has demonstrated that it prioritizes the needs of the people. We must work together to ensure the sustainability of these projects,” Ode remarked.

The Ugbema Water Supply Project features five standalone solar-powered boreholes with fetching points and lighting, four industrial solar-powered boreholes, a 200m³ Braithwaite surface tank, a 150m³ elevated tank on a 12m stand, and a 50m³/hr treatment plant.

Similarly, the Wannune Water Supply Project consists of four industrial solar-powered boreholes, each with a 100m³ elevated steel-welded tank, a mini treatment plant, power connections, and solar lighting to enhance functionality.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, assured that the projects would meet the highest standards and be completed on schedule.

“These projects are part of the broader effort to achieve sustainable water supply across the country. We are not just providing water; we are securing the health and future of communities,” Pheelangwah said.

Also speaking the Director of Water Supply and Support Services, Babarinde Mukaila, noted that the rehabilitated water schemes would ensure sustainable and efficient water distribution, providing uninterrupted access to potable water in the targeted communities.