Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has emphasized the importance of water security in modern governance and human development. He made this statement during a two-day workshop in Jos, themed “Improving Water Supply and Sanitation Services Delivery.” The event was organized by the Plateau State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Jos Water Services Corporation, the National Urban Water Sector Reform Project, and the French Development Agency (AFD).
The Plateau State Government has injected over N2.6 billion as counterpart funding into the Plateau State Urban Water Supply Project to expand access to potable water. This commitment was highlighted during the workshop, which aimed to bring together stakeholders to discuss challenges and develop practical solutions to improve water services. Governor Mutfwang, represented by his deputy, Josephine Piyo, stressed that the ultimate goal is to deliver reliable water systems and improve project delivery.
Governor Mutfwang noted that the success of any reform programme is measured by its direct impact on citizens. He urged workshop participants to identify operational bottlenecks, share experiences, and develop practical solutions to elevate water services across the country. The governor emphasized that tangible improvements in the lives of citizens are crucial, rather than just holding meetings or producing reports.
The Plateau State Government is undertaking several key projects to improve urban water supply. These include the expansion of municipal reticulation networks, the rehabilitation of the Yelwa Water Treatment Plant, and the reticulation of the Mangu Regional Water Scheme. Additionally, work is underway to construct and rehabilitate water infrastructure across Bokkos, Langtang North, Langtang South, and Wase.
The state is also rehabilitating both the Yakubu Gowon and Laminga Water Treatment Plants with support from AFD. Governor Mutfwang appealed to AFD to simplify its administrative processes and expedite “No Objection” approvals to minimise delays in completing critical water infrastructure. This will enable the state to complete projects on time and improve access to potable water for citizens.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and develop practical solutions to improve water services in Plateau State. The event was attended by representatives from various agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Jos Water Services Corporation, and the National Urban Water Sector Reform Project. Participants shared experiences and identified operational bottlenecks to elevate water services across the country.
The Plateau State Government's efforts to improve urban water supply are part of a broader strategy to address water security challenges in the state. The governor's call for stronger institutions and sustainable investment in urban water supply reflects the state's commitment to providing citizens with access to potable water. The state's progress in this area will be closely watched by citizens and stakeholders.
Key points
- The Plateau State Government has invested over N2.6 billion in the Plateau State Urban Water Supply Project.
- Governor Mutfwang has called for stronger institutions and sustainable investment in urban water supply.
- The state is undertaking several key projects to improve urban water supply, including the rehabilitation of water treatment plants and expansion of reticulation networks.
