The Ekiti State government has approved N1,681,198,360.20 for the upgrading and rehabilitation of 104 high-yielding boreholes across the state's 16 local government areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). This move aims to expand access to sustainable and reliable potable water supply, particularly in rural and small-town communities. The approval was given at a state executive council meeting presided over by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
The project is part of the World Bank-supported Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme. Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, disclosed this in a statement, stating that the 104 boreholes will be upgraded and converted into reticulated, solar-powered water facilities. This will provide more sustainable water infrastructure for communities in the state, aligning with the SURWASH programme's objectives and the Oyebanji administration's commitment to strengthening water supply infrastructure.
The 104 boreholes were selected based on stipulated World Bank/SURWASH criteria, and the procurement process was conducted through open competitive bidding to ensure transparency and compliance with applicable procurement procedures. A total of 167 bids were received for the 52 lots into which the 104 borehole facilities were grouped, following the publication of tender notices in two national newspapers on June 24.
After a technical and financial evaluation of the bids, 52 successful contractors were selected, with each contractor awarded a lot comprising two borehole facilities. Reserve bidders were also identified for the respective lots in accordance with applicable procurement procedures. The projects are expected to be completed within four weeks, reflecting the administration's determination to rapidly expand access to sustainable potable water across the state.
The intervention aims to strengthen rural and small-town water infrastructure while improving the quality, coverage, and reliability of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in Ekiti State. This initiative is part of the state's efforts to improve access to safe and potable water for residents, particularly in rural areas where access to clean water is often limited.
The SURWASH programme is a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at improving sustainable access to water supply and sanitation services in rural and small-town communities. The programme's objectives align with the Ekiti State government's commitment to providing sustainable and reliable potable water supply, particularly in rural areas.
The upgrade of the 104 boreholes is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of residents in Ekiti State, particularly in rural and small-town communities where access to clean water is often limited. The project's completion within four weeks will demonstrate the administration's commitment to rapidly expanding access to sustainable potable water across the state.
Key points
- The Ekiti State government has approved N1.68bn to upgrade 104 boreholes across 16 local government areas.
- The project is part of the World Bank-supported SURWASH programme.
- The projects are expected to be completed within four weeks.
