President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated major segments of the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to infrastructure that directly enhances the quality of life for Nigerians.
At the commissioning ceremony held on Airport Road in Abuja, the President led a moment of silence in honour of those killed in recent attacks in Benue State.
He expressed his condolences to affected families and communities, urging the state’s leadership to work towards peace and unity.
“I have spoken to the governor. The leadership of Benue should accept our condolences and try hard—very consciously—to maintain peace and harmony among themselves,” Tinubu said.
He added that he plans to visit Benue on Wednesday to commiserate with victims and their families.
Speaking about the water project, President Tinubu described it as a transformative step towards ensuring sustainable access to clean water for households, institutions, and communities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“Water is life. It is not a luxury. It is a basic human right and a foundation for public health, urban development, and economic growth,” he stated.
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The President praised the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under Minister Nyesom Wike for their commitment, emphasising that the Renewed Hope Agenda is focused on delivering impactful and equitable projects.
“This water infrastructure is not just a technical milestone but a moral one. It ensures that no part of Abuja is left behind,” Tinubu said.
“We are not here today merely to lay pipes. We are laying the groundwork for healthier families, stronger communities, and a more productive city.”
He also acknowledged the support of international partners, particularly the Chinese Government and CGC Nigeria Limited, highlighting the benefits of global collaboration built on mutual respect.
Urging residents to protect the newly commissioned infrastructure, Tinubu said, “Use the water wisely and work with the government to ensure sustainability.”I
In his remarks, Minister Wike thanked the President for his sustained interest in developing the capital.
He recalled Tinubu’s early inquiries into the status of Abuja’s infrastructure, including the halted mass transit rail system and the water supply network.
Wike revealed that the project, initially awarded in 2017 under a $470 million tripartite financing arrangement with the Chinese Government, Federal Government, and FCTA, is now operational with plans to expand access to rural communities like Bwari, Kuje, and Karu.
“We are almost done with procurement to provide water to these satellite towns. By your third anniversary next year, we believe those projects will be ready for commissioning,” he assured the President.
Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, provided technical details, noting that Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6 of the network are designed to serve 50 districts across Phases Two, Three, and Four of Abuja’s development plan.
According to him, the project involves the installation of 425 kilometres of ductile iron pipes and over 1,600 appurtenances to ensure efficient distribution of potable water.
“Upon completion, the network will significantly boost access to safe water for Abuja residents,” Dauda added.
