By Abbas Nazil
In a major step toward enhancing water access and improving sanitation and hygiene across Ekiti State, the government has received 110 solar-powered pumps and accompanying accessories.
This development is part of the World Bank-supported Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) Program, designed to upgrade WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities.
The Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Professor Mobolaji Aluko, disclosed the development in Ado-Ekiti, stating that the strategic bulk procurement of the pumps aimed to reduce cost, standardize the quality of equipment, and ensure that maintenance and servicing are consistent and efficient.
He emphasized that this initiative is a continuation of the state government’s efforts over the past two years to address water and sanitation challenges by constructing boreholes and sanitation facilities in schools, health centers, and rural communities.
Aluko noted that the state has successfully rehabilitated 121 WASH facilities and constructed 64 solar-powered boreholes in various locations.
The new batch of equipment, according to him, will support the construction of an additional 110 WASH facilities, each equipped with solar-powered boreholes.
These facilities are set to be distributed evenly across the state, with each of the local government areas (LGAs) and local council development areas (LCDAs) receiving two units.
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Additional units have been earmarked for Ado Local Government Area, in recognition of its larger population and infrastructural needs.
Further, the commissioner highlighted the government’s commitment to resolving the persistent electricity supply challenges that have hindered the operation of water dams and associated infrastructure.
To this end, the state is exploring dedicated power solutions that include gas-powered systems, solar energy, and small-scale hydropower generation to ensure uninterrupted water supply and support for agricultural irrigation efforts.
Ekiti State is home to four major dams—Ero, Egbe, Ureje, and Itapaji—as well as a federally owned multipurpose dam at Ogbese.
Aluko reiterated the government’s focus on guaranteeing reliable power supply to these facilities to ensure water can be pumped efficiently to areas in need.
In addition to technical advancements, the commissioner called for stronger community involvement in the management of public infrastructure.
He underscored the importance of local ownership, accountability, and community engagement to ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of these investments.
Aluko concluded that with coordinated efforts between government and communities, access to clean water and improved hygiene can be significantly enhanced throughout Ekiti State.
