Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has appealed to residents, particularly those in Minna metropolis, to remain patient amid the ongoing water shortage, assuring that his administration is working to address the situation.
The governor made the appeal while briefing journalists at the Government House in Minna on critical issues affecting residents, including water scarcity, electricity supply, and insecurity in parts of the state.
Bago attributed the water challenges to decades of neglected infrastructure, noting that many pipelines, some over 30 to 40 years old, are broken.
He also cited ongoing construction works and the growing population in the state capital as factors putting pressure on the existing water system, adding that the government has commenced steps toward a holistic overhaul of the water infrastructure to provide a lasting solution.
According to him, “Efforts are underway to desilt the Tagwai Dam, replace old pipelines, and revamp the distribution network in Minna, while expanding reservoirs and water articulation systems to ensure improved access to potable water.
“In the interim, we are deploying water tankers to distribute water to affected communities. We are also collaborating with development partners to drill boreholes in areas where residents need potable drinking water.”
On electricity supply, he urged citizens to consider alternative power sources, noting that the state government has already migrated critical public institutions, such as hospitals, schools, and the Government House, from the national grid to ensure uninterrupted services.
Bago disclosed that the state is working closely with the Federal Government to tackle insecurity and restore normalcy in troubled communities.
The governor further lamented that over 300,000 persons have been displaced by insecurity and flooding across 10 local government areas.
He then appreciated members of the press for their support and encouraged them to continue reporting government activities professionally and objectively.
Minna water scarcity: Be patient with us – Gov Bago begs Niger residents
