By Abdullahi Lukman
A faith-driven collaboration between WaterAid Nigeria and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has transformed access to clean water and sanitation for more than 10,000 residents in four communities of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The initiative, part of the second phase of the
Strengthening Water and Sanitation Delivery in Abuja project, brought sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services to Sabongari 3, Kogo 1, Igu, and Barangoni in Bwari Area Council.
Through the 17-month project, communities received motorised solar-powered water schemes, upgraded boreholes, and new gender-sensitive sanitation facilities in schools, significantly improving public health and living standards.
Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, Evelyn Mere, said the success of the project reflects the power of faith-based partnerships in tackling pressing development challenges.
“Every drop of effort and every resource invested continues to change lives for generations to come,” she stated during the commissioning ceremony.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints provided funding for the intervention, while local authorities and community representatives signed agreements to ensure long-term maintenance of the facilities.
WaterAid also trained 60 members of WASH management committees and 54 hygiene promoters to sustain the gains through behavioural change and proper facility management.
With over 10,523 people now benefiting from safe water and improved hygiene, the project underscores the role of collaboration between non-governmental, religious, and government institutions in promoting sustainable development.
WaterAid Nigeria urged continued government and community support to replicate the project’s impact in other underserved parts of the country.
