FG to partner with Zamfara Govt on unlocking benefits of Bakolori dam

The Federal Government has affirmed its commitment to partner with the Zamfara State Government to unlock the full benefits of the Bakolori Dam for the people.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, reiterated this commitment during a visit by Gov. Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State to the ministry in Abuja.

The minister stressed the importance of joint efforts in implementing various federal government WASH intervention programmes, highlighting their critical role in improving the well-being of Zamfara citizens collectively.

The minister underscored ongoing initiatives aimed at executing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs beneficial to Zamfara State and the entire nation.

He emphasised the Federal Government’s readiness to support states with specific water needs, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda.

Acknowledging the various benefits of water and sanitation, such as job creation, hygiene services, and investment opportunities, Utsev urged the Governor to promptly release counterpart contributions for the Federal Government to fulfill its obligations to Zamfara’s residents.

He also urged collaboration with the private sector to construct additional toilets in public areas to combat open defecation effectively.

The minister stressed the importance of engaging religious and traditional leaders in discouraging open defecation to achieve Nigeria’s SDG target of becoming Open Defecation Free by 2025.

Responding, Lawal commended the minister’s appointment and appealed for Federal Government intervention in addressing water challenges in Zamfara State.

He assured the administration’s commitment to providing counterpart contributions for ongoing federal projects in the state, emphasising the significance of optimising the Bakolori dam project to enhance year-round irrigated farming.

The governor pledged a cooperative and productive working relationship aimed at enhancing the lives of Zamfara residents.

Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Shinkafi, and several directors of the ministry.