Governor Approves ₦3.759bn for Gusau Water Supply Rehabilitation
The Zamfara State Government has approved the sum of ₦3,759,931,812.50 for the immediate rehabilitation of the Gusau Water Supply Scheme (Phase I), in a move aimed at addressing persistent water scarcity and improving access to clean and safe water for residents of the state capital.
The approval was granted under the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal during a meeting of the State Executive Council following the submission of a memorandum by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure.
According to details made available to NovexNews, the memorandum requested urgent government intervention in response to the deteriorating state of the water supply infrastructure serving the Gusau metropolis.
The rehabilitation project is expected to restore the efficiency of water production and distribution systems across the city, improve service delivery, and reduce the burden faced by households and businesses struggling with inadequate water supply.
For years, residents of Gusau have raised concerns over irregular water supply, with many relying heavily on private boreholes, water vendors, and alternative sources to meet daily domestic and commercial needs.
The government said the approval forms part of broader efforts by the current administration to strengthen public infrastructure, improve living conditions, and tackle longstanding developmental challenges affecting citizens.
Officials noted that the Gusau Water Supply Scheme remains one of the most critical public utility projects in the state due to its strategic role in supplying potable water to thousands of households in the capital.
The rehabilitation is designed to upgrade aging facilities, repair damaged components, and improve operational efficiency to ensure a more reliable and sustainable water supply system.
Government sources disclosed that the project will cover major rehabilitation works required to restore optimal production capacity and enhance water distribution networks throughout the city.
The intervention is also expected to contribute significantly to public health and sanitation improvements, particularly in densely populated communities where access to clean water remains limited.
Access to safe drinking water is considered a major component of disease prevention, environmental sanitation, and improved quality of life, especially in urban areas experiencing rapid population growth.
In reaffirming its commitment to the project, the state government revealed that funding for the rehabilitation has already been captured in the 2026 Appropriation Law.
This, according to officials, reflects the administration’s deliberate focus on prioritizing critical infrastructure projects capable of delivering direct benefits to citizens.
“The inclusion of this project in the 2026 budget demonstrates government’s seriousness in addressing water challenges and ensuring the people of Zamfara have access to improved public services,” a government source familiar with the decision stated.
The approval has been welcomed by many residents and stakeholders, who described the development as a timely intervention.
Some residents expressed optimism that the rehabilitation would reduce dependence on expensive water alternatives and improve access for low-income households.
A resident of Gusau who spoke to NovexNews said water scarcity has remained a major issue affecting families and businesses.
“We have suffered from poor water supply for years. Many people spend a lot of money buying water every week. If this project is completed successfully, it will bring relief to many households,” the resident said.
Another business owner in the city noted that reliable water supply would also support commercial activities and reduce operational costs.
“Businesses like restaurants, laundry services, and small factories depend heavily on water. Stable supply will make business easier and cheaper,” the source added.
Upon completion of the rehabilitation project, the Zamfara State Water Corporation will be responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of the rehabilitated facilities.
The arrangement is intended to ensure sustainability, proper management, and long-term service delivery.
Infrastructure experts have repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintenance culture in public utility projects, warning that failure to maintain rehabilitated facilities often leads to recurring breakdowns and wasted investments.
The state government has assured residents that mechanisms will be put in place to monitor implementation and ensure the project is delivered according to approved standards.
Observers say the project aligns with Governor Dauda Lawal’s broader development agenda focused on infrastructure renewal, public service improvement, and economic development.
Since assuming office, the administration has repeatedly pledged to invest in sectors considered essential to improving the quality of life for citizens, including roads, education, healthcare, and water resources.
The latest approval is expected to strengthen confidence in the government’s efforts to address infrastructure deficits in the state.
Water sector advocates have also urged authorities to complement the rehabilitation with policies aimed at protecting water infrastructure, expanding distribution coverage, and promoting efficient resource management.
As work is expected to commence, residents of Gusau remain hopeful that the project will mark a turning point in resolving the city’s long-standing water supply challenges.
The rehabilitation of the Gusau Water Supply Scheme is widely seen as a major investment in public welfare, urban development, and sustainable service delivery in Zamfara State.