Abuja: Nyesome Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has disclosed that both the Bwari water project and the Karu water supply are estimated to cost not less than #90 billion.
He said this while commissioning the newly rehabilitated #50 billion phase 2 water treatment plant at the lower Usuma Dam in Ushafa, Bwari Area Council.
While stating that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the flag-off of additional water projects in satellite towns, the Minister added that the government would commence the Bwari water project on Wednesday, as the Karu water supply project would be launched on Thursday.
Wike said, “The phase 2 rehabilitation awarded in 2022 at a cost of about ₦50 billion, was completed in line with the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritises water as an essential service.
“The project will significantly expand the dam’s carrying capacity and boost water supply to Abuja residents.
“Some people have accused us of concentrating only on roads, but beyond roads, we are also focusing on basic infrastructure like water supply.
“Water is life, and this administration is committed to ensuring residents enjoy this essential service,” he said.
Wike revealed that Phases one, three, and four of the Lower Usuma Dam project have already been awarded by the Federal Executive Council.
The Minister also said the move would further enhance water distribution across the territory, adding that agreements signed with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) during Tinubu’s visit to China in 2023 were also geared towards ensuring satellite towns benefit from a reliable water supply.
He highlighted the administration’s achievements in education, noting that many schools have been completed, renovated, or are currently undergoing construction across the FCT.
The Minister directed the Secretary of Education to make public the comprehensive list of completed and ongoing school projects, and to take the media on inspection tours of rural schools to showcase the government’s commitment.
“This administration is not only developing the city centre but is also taking infrastructure to the satellite towns. Our goal is to make life easier for all residents of the FCT,” Wike said.
Also speaking, the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, commended President Tinubu for his unwavering support toward infrastructural renewal and for prioritising critical projects that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
Mahmoud urged residents to rededicate themselves to the proper management and sustainability of the water treatment plant, ensuring that generations yet unborn would continue to benefit from the vital infrastructure.
