Water Disruption Looms In FCT, As Usuma Dam Undergoes Upgrade

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been urged to brace for a two-week water shortage as the FCT Water Board announced a planned disruption in supply due to ongoing rehabilitation works at the Lower Usuma Dam water treatment plants.

The shutdown, scheduled for Friday, May 30, to Friday, June 13, 2025, is necessary to facilitate the installation of electro-mechanical equipment, a crucial phase in the plant’s upgrade.
In a statement, the board explained that the disruption is to pave way for the connection of the electro-mechanical equipment of the plants, which is a major component of the rehabilitation work.

It urged residents, particularly its customers, to store sufficient water and make alternative arrangements to cope with the shortage.

“We appeal to residents to kindly store water that may last them for this period, including an alternative supply to augment their needs,” the board said.

The management acknowledged the inconvenience, stating, “Any inconveniences that might be experienced by our customers are highly regretted.”

The Lower Usuma Dam is a key water source for Abuja, supplies millions of residents, and the temporary shutdown is expected to affect households, businesses, and institutions.

A water resource analyst, Amina Bello, said while the disruption may cause hardship, the upgrade is essential for long-term efficiency.

“This maintenance is overdue. Once completed, it will improve water supply reliability in the FCT,” she said.

Some Abuja residents expressed frustration but acknowledged the necessity, “Two weeks without steady water is tough, but if it means better supply later, we’ll manage,” said Mr. Ibrahim Musa, a resident of Gwarimpa.