By Abbas Nazil
Sokoto State has taken a major step toward resolving its long-standing water scarcity challenges with the commissioning of a new township water supply scheme capable of producing three million gallons of water per day.
The project, inaugurated on Monday by Governor Ahmed Aliyu at the Old Airport area in the state capital, is one of six water schemes slated for completion under the administration’s ambitious infrastructure revival agenda.
The initiative, which dates back to the tenure of former Governor Aliyu Wamakko, is being completed and revitalized by the current administration to address chronic shortages and improve living conditions for Sokoto residents.
When fully operational, the six water schemes—located in Tamaje, Old Airport, Gagi, Mana, Runjin Sambo, and Ruga Liman—will collectively deliver up to 40 million gallons of water daily, greatly enhancing urban and peri-urban supply. The overall cost of the multi-site project is estimated at N14.1 billion.
At the inauguration ceremony, Governor Aliyu described the development as a “promise fulfilled” and a clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to service delivery and public welfare.
He recounted the dire situation Sokoto faced prior to the intervention, where the failure of treatment systems and decaying infrastructure forced residents to buy water at exorbitant prices—up to N300 per jerrycan.
In response, the government undertook immediate remedial actions, including the replacement of obsolete equipment and provision of alternative power sources for the state water board to circumvent the impact of erratic electricity supply.
According to the governor, the locations for the six schemes were chosen based on both population density and the severity of need.
He emphasized that water security is fundamental to health, economic growth, and human dignity, and vowed to continue pursuing infrastructure development that directly impacts the lives of ordinary citizens.
Governor Aliyu extended his appreciation to Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, who attended the commissioning despite his tight schedule, calling his presence a symbol of genuine friendship and inter-state solidarity.
He also commended the contractors, engineers, and community leaders for their tireless efforts in bringing the project to life.
“To the good people of Sokoto, this is your victory,” Aliyu said in his address to the crowd of dignitaries, stakeholders, and residents who attended the event.
“Your resilience and support fuel our determination to do more. With your continued cooperation, we will achieve even greater milestones.”
The ceremony marked not only a technical achievement but also a political and social milestone for Sokoto State, underscoring the administration’s prioritization of essential services and its commitment to sustainable development.
