By Abdullahi Lukman
Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has inaugurated the ₦31.8 billion Zobe Phase 1B Water Project, marking a historic step toward ending over 40 years of inadequate clean water supply in the state.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Kafin Soli Booster Station, fulfills a long-standing promise to utilize the Zobe Dam—completed in 1983 but largely underused—to provide potable water to thousands of residents.
Governor Radda described the initiative as “a promise finally fulfilled,” emphasizing that the project represents “life, health, and dignity” for the people of Katsina.
The project will deliver safe water to communities including Karofi-Radda, Kafin Soli, Kankia, Charanchi, Batagarawa, and several others.
The governor explained that the project aligns with the World Bank-supported Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, which is already improving water access in eight local government areas.
He added that rehabilitation works at Ajiwa, Danja, and Sabuwa Dams are underway to strengthen the state’s water infrastructure and resilience.
“Our goal is not just to build new systems but to create sustainable infrastructure that will serve generations to come,” Radda said, noting that the state is also part of the World Bank’s Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) Project to enhance irrigation, hydropower, and food security.
Commissioner for Water Resources, Bashir Gambo, described the launch as a major milestone in improving public health and quality of life, stressing that access to clean water is a fundamental right.
Katsina State Water Board Managing Director, Engr. Tukur Tinglin, explained that Phase 1A—completed in July 2022—currently produces about 40 to 45 million litres of water daily, though the Katsina metropolis alone requires more than 130 million litres.
Phase 1B, he said, will expand the distribution network to reach homes, schools, and businesses.
Liu Zhaolong, Group Managing Director of MCC Limited, the project contractor, noted that the water project has already stimulated agricultural and commercial activities, demonstrating how reliable water access supports economic growth.
The Zobe Phase 1B Water Project is expected to transform water access across Katsina, turning decades of scarcity into a foundation for sustainable development.
