ABUJA WATER PROJECT, A SYMBOL OF RENEWED HOPE – President Tinubu

…COMMISSIONS GREATER ABUJA WATER SUPPLY PROJECT

…Commiserates with the Benue People over killings in Yelwata

By: Wisdom Acka and Prudence Okonna

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project (GAWSN) is a symbol of renewed hope, dignity, and prosperity for Nigerians.

The President said this on Monday, 16th June 2025, in Abuja, during the commissioning of the water project, which is expected to triple the capital city’s daily water supply capacity.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to equitable development and people-focused governance across all sectors.

According to him, the water project is both a “technical and moral milestone”, adding that it exemplifies his Renewed Hope Agenda by ensuring that no part of Abuja is left behind in national development.

He emphasised that the project speaks directly to the needs of everyday Nigerians, providing them with clean, safe, and reliable drinking water to “drink, clean, grow, and build.”

“This water infrastructure is not only about laying pipes. We are laying the groundwork for healthier families, stronger communities, and a more productive city. It’s a treasure we often take for granted, but it is the building block of dignity and prosperity.” The President stated.

“As your President, I remain committed to accelerating growth, prosperity, and the delivery of reliable infrastructure. Together, with local and international partnerships, we are turning hope into tangible impact.” President Tinubu said.

The President commended the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), the Executive Secretary of the FCDA, and the Contractor, CGCOC, for their commitment to the people’s needs.

“I thank the FCT Minister and your team for your conscious commitment to the needs of the people. This is what leadership means-meeting the needs of your people with dedication,” He noted.

He also expressed appreciation to the National Assembly for their continued support and to Nigeria’s international partners, particularly the People’s Republic of China, for their unwavering support to Nigeria’s infrastructural development.

Meanwhile, the President took a moment to sympathize with the people of Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, over the recent violent killings, describing them as tragic and calling for peace and unity.

He pledged to visit the affected communities on Wednesday.

FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike, in his remarks earlier, said that the GAWSN was awarded as a 470 million US Dollar project in 2017. He added that the project execution plan was 85 percent funded by the Chinese government and 15 percent by Nigeria to take care of loops 1, 2, 5, and 6.

“We want to sincerely thank you that, under this administration, the job has been completed, and today, you are commissioning the water project,” the Minister said.

Barrister Wike also revealed that during President Tinubu’s visit to China last year, a contract for the provision of water in some satellite towns was signed.

He also expressed gratitude to the President for his continued support, noting that procurement is ongoing to expand the water supply in some of the satellite towns, including Bwari, Kubwa, Karu, and other communities.

Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, in her vote of thanks, praised President Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to the welfare of FCT residents and lauded the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his visionary leadership.

She described the project as a demonstration of the inclusive policy of the federal government.

The Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Zhang Yi, congratulated the Nigerian government and citizens on the successful completion of the project, calling it a “symbol of the profound friendship between Nigeria and China.”

He reiterated China’s commitment to remaining Nigeria’s most reliable development partner.

According to Zhang Yi, a large number of local residents have been trained directly and indirectly creating over 3000 jobs.

He noted that the partnership is a symbol of the profound friendship between Nigeria and China, demonstrating China’s consistent and unwavering support to Nigeria’s infrastructural development

“China will always be Nigeria’s most reliable partner for development” Zhang Yi added.

Giving an overview of the project, the Executive Secretary Federal Capital Development Authority, Engr. Richard Dauda revealed that the project involves the construction of water supply pipes through loops 1,2,5, and 6, which are in line with the provision of the Abuja master plan.

Engr. Richard said that the project will enhance water supply in phases 2, 3, and 4 with the laying of 425 km of ductile iron pipes in the Federal Capital City (FCC).

Also present were Managing Director CGC, Zhong Xiang, and the All-Progressive Congress (APC) Chairman, Umar Ganduje, among other top government functionaries.