Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has flagged off the Supply of Water to Satellite Towns project, starting with the Bwari area council, with a firm promise to replicate the project in all area councils before the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first term in 2027.
The ceremony in Bwari was attended by residents, traditional rulers and government officials, who cheered as the minister detailed the administration’s plan to end the perennial water scarcity on the outskirts of the nation’s capital.
In his address, Wike recalled the initial scepticism that met the administration’s promise, stating that the project is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to fulfilling his pledges.
“Remember in 2023, when we were appointed, we had stakeholders’ meetings in the six area councils, and I did say that the president is desirous of providing potable, clean water to the satellite towns.
“When we made that statement, of course, as usual, people will always see it as doing politics. We will ensure that this will be done,” he said.
He highlighted the president’s direct involvement, revealing that Tinubu had approved the immediate release of 50 percent of the total contract sum to the handling firm, CGC Nigeria Limited, to ensure timely completion.
“The president has mandated that the contract for this ought to be 18 months, but we discussed with the contractors and pleaded with them that they have to do all it takes so that by the third anniversary of Mr President, we will be able to commission these projects.
“By the time we finish in Bwari and Karu, in the next year’s budget, by the grace of God, we will be able to go to Kuje and Kwali.
Then by 2027, by the grace of God, we will have taken over Gwagwalada and Abaji. So, by the time Mr President’s full four-year tenure expires, we will have touched all the satellite towns,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the Bwari project would provide over 1,600 direct and indirect jobs and eliminate the need for residents to dig unsafe boreholes.
“This will stop you digging your own boreholes. This is fully treated water, unlike the one we do in our boreholes, not treated,” he stated.
He passionately appealed to the community for cooperation, urging them to protect the project as their own.
“This is the first time a government has said, you too deserve to have potable clean water, because water is life. Not just saying it, but implementing it.
“If you can protect contractors when they are constructing roads, you can imagine what you will do as regards the supply of water, which is one of the basic needs of man in life.
“So, I urge you to support and collaborate with the company. Be assured that this will not be an abandoned project. It will not be an abandoned project. We will start and we will complete it,” he said.
The minister further engaged the crowd in a call-and-response, reminding them of a shared “agreement.”
“You have reminded us that agreement is what? Agreement. We have agreed that we are going to bring water, and we are bringing water. Is it not?
“When I come back to say we have performed, you too will perform. Is it not? Agreement is what? Agreement. So, what president has done for you, when it is your turn too, you do for president,” he said.
The project, Lot 1 of the Supply of Water to Satellite Towns, is expected to be completed and ready for commissioning within the next 18 months.
