On Monday, President Bola Tinubu commissioned the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network, Loops 1, 2, 5 and 6, committing the commitment of its administration for sustainable infrastructures that directly improves the life of citizens.
During the commissioning ceremony on Airport Road, Abuja, President Tinubu led a moment of silence in honor of the victims of recent violence in Benue’s state and extended his heartfelt condolences to families and affected communities.
“While I sympathize me with the people of Benue, I spoke to the governor. Benue’s leadership should accept our condolences and make it hard – very consciously – to maintain peace and harmony between them. We are a large family who lives in the same house, remaining in different rooms, but lives together in harmony,” he said.
President Tinubu announced his intention to visit Benue State on Wednesday to commission the victims and their families.
He described the water network as a transformative effort to guarantee safe, sustainable and sufficient water for houses, institutions and communities throughout the capital.
“Water is life. It is not a luxury. It is a fundamental human right and a basis for public health, urban development and economic growth,” he said.
He praised the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), led by Minister Nyesom Wike and all the interested parties of the project for their dedication to the project.
He stressed that the agenda of renewed hope focuses on the supply of tangible projects and focused on people who affect the daily life of the Nigerians.
“This water infrastructure is not only a technical, but moral milestone, because it is equity. It guarantees that no part of Abuja is left behind in our national development agenda.
“When we talk about the renewed agenda of hope, we mean tangible and focused projects on people who improve the daily life of Nigerian normal. Water to drink, clean, grow, build. This is a real project. It is a treasure that we always take for granted.
“We are not here today just to lay the pipes. We are laying the bases for healthier families, stronger communities and a more productive city,” he said.
President Tinubu thanked the international development partners, in particular the Chinese government and the CGC Nigeria Limited, for their collaboration on the project.
“We are showing the world that the partnership based on mutual respect and shared prosperity can offer a real impact,” he said.
The president urged residents to safeguard the infrastructure:
“While commissioning this vital project, urges all the residents and parties interested in protecting this investment. It wisely uses water and collaborates with the government to guarantee sustainability,” he said.
Wike thanked the president for his continuous support and practical interest in the development of the capital.
“Mr. President, on behalf of the residents and the administration of the FCT, we sincerely appreciate and thank you for having dedicated time to stay with us again. Today marks the fourth day of the commissioning programs,” he said.
He told the president’s first investigations on the infrastructure state of Abuja after taking on the assignment.
“I remember that when you got on board, you invited me and you asked me one or two questions. One is:” Why doesn’t the mass transit train work? “You said,” I want to ride on that train. “
“Secondly, did you ask:” What is happening to Abuja’s water supply? “And you clarified:” They are not just railway infrastructures.
Wike explained that the project was initially awarded in 2017 for 470 million dollars as part of a tripartite financing agreement that involves the Chinese government (85%), the federal government and the FCT administration (15%).
He also highlighted the current efforts to extend the water infrastructures to the underground communities.