Governor Aliyu commissions Sokoto water project, vows end to scarcity

By Abbas Nazil
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has commissioned one of six township water supply schemes aimed at tackling the persistent water shortage in the state’s metropolis.
The unveiling of the facility at the Old Airport area signals a major step forward in the administration’s plan to restore and expand access to clean water across densely populated communities in Sokoto.
The newly commissioned water scheme boasts a daily capacity of three million gallons and forms part of a broader initiative to revive and complete water infrastructure projects initially launched by former Governor Aliyu Wamakko.
Governor Aliyu hailed the project as a “promise fulfilled” and a critical move to improve the living standards of Sokoto residents.
He emphasized that his administration prioritized water infrastructure after inheriting a dire situation where the public had to purchase a jerrycan of water for as much as ₦300 due to collapsed systems and shortages of treatment chemicals.
“We took immediate and drastic measures to restore the normal supply,” Governor Aliyu stated during the commissioning ceremony.
He noted that his government replaced obsolete equipment and installed alternative power sources for the Sokoto State Water Board to cushion the effects of unstable electricity supply.
These steps, he explained, were essential to ensure the continuity and efficiency of water production and distribution throughout the city.
The Old Airport water scheme is one of six targeted in the comprehensive water restoration plan.
Other project sites include Tamaje, Gagi, Mana, Runjin Sambo, and Ruga Liman—locations selected based on their population density and the urgency of water needs.
Once all six schemes are fully operational, they are expected to produce a combined total of 40 million gallons of water per day. The total cost of the projects stands at ₦14.1 billion.
Governor Aliyu expressed satisfaction with the progress of the water initiative and commended the contractors, engineers, and local leaders who played key roles in ensuring the successful execution of the project.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and communities in delivering public infrastructure that addresses core challenges.
The commissioning of the Old Airport facility marks the beginning of a renewed effort by the Sokoto State Government to make potable water more accessible, reliable, and affordable for residents.
It also reflects the administration’s broader commitment to enhancing the quality of life through sustainable infrastructure development.