Chidinma Iroegbu
Access to clean water is a fundamental right of every citizen, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said on Monday as the Federal Capital Territory Administration commissioned the Karu Water Supply Network to expand potable water access in Karu and neighbouring communities.
Representing the President, Vice President Kashim Shettima said the project reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda and the administration’s commitment to delivering practical solutions to the needs of Nigerians. “Access to clean water is a basic right,” he stated.
Shettima disclosed that the project delivered over 194 kilometres of secondary and tertiary pipeline networks, bringing treated and safe water directly to residents of Karu and surrounding settlements.
According to him, the intervention was executed through timely funding and efficient project delivery, noting that residents who previously depended on unsafe water sources would now benefit from improved access to potable water.
He said the water scheme forms part of broader investments in roads, healthcare, housing and education across the FCT, stressing that the administration “does not trade in promises; we trade in results.”
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike said the project originated from a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the FCT Administration and CGC to improve water supply in satellite towns across the territory.
Wike noted that the contract was awarded in August 2025 and completed in less than one year due to the President’s prompt release of funds. “Without your support, this would not have been possible,” he said.
The minister announced that similar water projects in Bwari and Gwagwalada Area Councils would be commissioned on July 14, adding that additional road projects in Karu would also be inaugurated before the end of the month.
Earlier, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a major investment in public health and community development, saying it represents “the delivery of hope, happiness, progress and improved quality of life” for residents.
Mahmoud commended President Tinubu, the National Assembly, the FCT Water Board, contractors and community leaders for supporting the project, noting that access to safe water remains critical to sustainable development and improved living standards.