The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) by commissioning the rehabilitated New Bussa waterworks in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who commissioned the project, stated that the government is dedicated to ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation for all Nigerians.
The New Bussa waterworks, which had been non-functional for over three decades, has been restored to provide sustainable water management and improve public health in the community. This project is particularly significant for New Bussa, home to Nigeria’s largest hydroelectric dam, the Kainji dam.
The initiative began in 2023 as an intervention effort by the National Hydro Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC). For over 30 years, the government of Niger State had managed the project without delivering water to homes in the expanding New Bussa community.
Speaking at the event, George Akume, represented by the Minister of State Agriculture and Food Security, Sahabi Abdullahi, emphasized the project’s importance in preventing water-borne diseases and promoting public health.
Abubakar Yelwa, Managing Director and Chief Executive of N-HYPPADEC, assured New Bussa residents that the project’s commissioning marks just the beginning of the commission’s commitment to the town. He highlighted that the water scheme, a significant investment of over ₦2.1 billion, demonstrates the Federal Government’s dedication to the well-being of New Bussa’s people.
The Emir of Bargu, Sani Haliru-Dantoro, expressed his excitement, noting that the restoration of the waterworks compensates for the community’s sacrifice and support for Nigeria’s electricity supply.
