Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has inaugurated the Zobe Phase 1B Water Project in Katsina State, a multi-billion-naira initiative aimed at ending decades of water scarcity and improving access to clean water for both urban and rural communities across the state.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony held in Katsina, Governor Radda described the project as a “moral and social commitment” of his administration to improve the well-being of citizens and ensure sustainable access to clean and safe water for all.“This project is not merely an engineering undertaking but a declaration of intent that every citizen whether in the towns or the remotest hamlets shall enjoy access to safe and reliable water,” he said.
Governor Radda disclosed that the contract, valued at ₦31 billion, was awarded to Mutual Commitment Company Limited, with a firm promise from the contractor to deliver the project within one year, despite the original two-year completion agreement.
To facilitate smooth implementation, the governor announced the immediate release of 40 percent of the contract sum to the company.
“I have directed the Ministry of Water Resources to commence the payment process so that the contractor can mobilize and begin work without delay,” Radda stated.
The governor explained that the Phase 1B project will benefit communities stretching from Dutsinma to Kafur, Radda, Kafinsoli, Kafasha, Tukaykia, Koda, Charanchi, Katsina Metropolis and among others.
He described the project as a monument to visionary governance and human cooperation, affirming that development must be seen as a continuum of people-centered initiatives rather than isolated efforts.
Governor Radda reaffirmed that water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) form a major pillar of his administration’s “Building Your Future” agenda.
He highlighted ongoing collaborations with the World Bank’s Sustainable Urban Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme, which has already improved water and sanitation services in several local government areas.
He noted that efforts are underway to rehabilitate major dams across the state to ensure sustainable water supply and improved public health outcomes.
Governor Radda emphasized that the project will also stimulate economic activities and create employment opportunities for young people, artisans, and local suppliers.
“As construction commences, our youths will find jobs, local enterprises will flourish, and communities will feel the impact of growth just as the water flows through the new pipes,” he said.
He charged the contractor to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and quality, assuring that the state government will maintain strict oversight to ensure timely delivery and sustainability.
Governor Radda outlined his broader vision to make Katsina a self-sufficient, climate-resilient, and food-secure state, where every citizen enjoys equal access to basic services.
He announced the state’s participation in the Transformative Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) Project, which seeks to modernize irrigation, expand hydropower generation, and strengthen water resource management.
“We are building a system that is not only functional but also resilient capable of withstanding population growth, time, and climate challenges,” he said.
The governor expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Water Resources, led by Dr. Bishir Gambo, and the Managing Director of the State Water Board, Dr. Tukur Tingilin for their leadership and dedication, thanking also the traditional rulers, community leaders, and the people of Katsina for their patience and support.
“Governance without the people is an empty exercise. Every pipe that shall be laid and every drop of water that will reach our homes tells a story of faith, cooperation, and compassion,” Radda added.
