Abia State Government has started the rehabilitation of the Ubakala and Ariaria water schemes with a N1.3 billion investment to improve access to safe and reliable water across the state.
Otti Flags Off Water Projects
Furthermore, Otti described water supply as critical to public health and human survival. He said the Ariaria regional water project had reached about 95 percent completion and noted that the new intervention would strengthen water supply in Aba and nearby communities.
However, the governor warned that unsafe water remains one of the major causes of avoidable deaths. He also repeated his administration’s commitment to making potable water available across Abia State.
Mercy Corps, Private Funding Support Project
Meanwhile, Otti thanked Mercy Corps for providing support and funding for the project. He described the N1.3 billion investment as significant and urged stakeholders to ensure proper execution and accountability.
In response, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Ikechukwu Monday, said the project aligns with the Abia Integrated WASH Accelerated Programme. He recalled earlier setbacks caused by insecurity and funding withdrawal issues.
Furthermore, he said fresh private sector financing and international support helped revive the project. He explained that the intervention includes the repair of existing boreholes, testing and fixing pumping systems, and installing solar-powered facilities.
Solar Infrastructure, Local Training Included
Consequently, Monday said workers would install about 280 solar panels of 580 watts each. He added that the project seeks to improve public health, restore dignity, and reduce dependence on unsafe water sources.
Meanwhile, Mercy Corps representative Rabiu Sani said the organisation operates in more than 40 countries and has supported projects across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. He said the intervention focuses on sustainability, community ownership, and building local capacity.
Furthermore, Sani said the project would train local technical teams to manage and maintain the facilities after completion. He added that the intervention aims to improve livelihoods, strengthen public health, and rebuild confidence in public infrastructure.
Government officials, members of the National and State Houses of Assembly, the Secretary to the State Government, commissioners, security advisers, and the Mayor of Umuahia South attended the event.
