President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated the rehabilitation and upgrade of the Buruku-Gboko water supply project in Benue State, valued at ₦18.8 billion.
The project, situated in Ameladu, Gboko Local Government Area, is a key underground water collection site aimed at improving access to clean drinking water in the region. Originally initiated in 1992 under former President Ibrahim Babangida, the project had been neglected by successive administrations.
Speaking at the inauguration on Thursday, President Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, said the project aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This initiative demonstrates the government’s dedication to enhancing citizens’ well-being by providing one of the most essential needs—clean water,” Utsev stated.
He explained that the project, initially known as the Gboko-Yandev Water Supply System, has now been renamed the Rehabilitation and Upgrading of Buruku/Gboko Water Supply Project. The effort focuses on restoring water facilities that had been vandalized, ensuring reliable water supply to Gboko, Mkar, Buruku, and surrounding communities.
With a capacity to benefit approximately 506,000 residents, the scheme is expected to provide potable water while reducing the risk of waterborne diseases. Water will be sourced from the Katsina Ala River and transported 17 kilometers for treatment before distribution.
The contract for the project has been awarded to Ceylon Construction Services Limited at a total cost of ₦18.8 billion, inclusive of all taxes. It is expected to be completed within 18 months.
The scope of work includes the full rehabilitation of the Gboko water intake and treatment plant, the installation of low- and high-lift pumps, and the setup of a 150m³/hr package water treatment plant at Buruku. The project will also feature a solar-powered hybrid control system to enhance sustainability.
Utsev urged the Benue State Government to support the engineers and experts handling the project to ensure its successful completion.
In his remarks, Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his deputy, Samuel Odeh, commended Tinubu for fulfilling his campaign promise to provide safe drinking water to Benue residents. He described the project as monumental, emphasizing that it had been abandoned for years.
“The people must take ownership of this project and protect it for future generations. I appeal to residents to cooperate with the contractors to ensure timely completion,” Alia said.
The paramount ruler of the Tiv nation, Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty James Ayatse, also pledged the community’s commitment to safeguarding the project, ensuring its long-term sustainability.