Obasanjo warned that uncursed drilling hole drilling would cause a water crisis

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Sunday raises concerns over the drilling hole drilling that extends in Nigeria’s homes and warns the long-term long-term consequences.

He associated an increase in dependence on private water sources, especially in Abeokuta, the State of Ogun, with the failure of the government in succession to maintain the Oyan Dam project initiated during his military government in 1977.

The former President, who spoke during a visit to Hilltop’s house in Abeokuta by the management and staff of the Ogun-Osun Das Development Authority, led by the Implementing Director, Adedeji Ashiru, stressed the need for sustainable water management.

The visit, which took place during the weekend as part of the activity that marked World Water Day, provided a platform for former president to highlight the dangers of drilling drilling drilling indiscriminately.

Obasanjo regretted that the neglect of the Oyan Dam had left residents without choices other than drilling holes to access water. However, he warned that this practice could have unexpected consequences.

“We cannot emphasize the importance or use of water for human life, and this is why we say water has no enemies,” he said.

He explained that his government had recognized the strategic role of water in food production and safety, which led to the formation of 11 river authorities, including Lake Chad, to support irrigation and ensure agriculture throughout the year.

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“If we only depend on agriculture that is given rain, we certainly will not do it properly,” he said. “Rain may come too early or late, and we may experience drought or flooding, all of which affect food production and security. The first step in achieving food safety is effective water management for agriculture.”

Obasanjo expressed disappointment that, 48 years after its construction, the Oyan Dam did not meet its original goal to provide water and strength to the residents of the State of Ogun and Lagos.

The dam, he said, has the potential to produce 9 megawatts of electricity, which can help overcome Nigeria’s chronic lack of power. However, the components of water supply and power plants have largely been abandoned.

“Oyan Dam was built to supply water for Abeokuta and Lagos, but has been ignored and ignored, such as turbines for power supplies,” he said.

“The water supply does not exist for Abeokuta, and vice versa, we continue to dig a hole everywhere, causing the surface of the water to fall further and further.

“This will have an impact in the future. How long before the effect becomes severe, I do not know, but geologists must learn the situation and tell us how fast the impact will come.”

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