Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has extended commendations to Infracorp Nigeria’s management team, led by its MD/CEO, Dr. Lazarus Angbazo.
Their unwavering commitment to advancing infrastructure development within the state has earned high praises.
During a courtesy visit from the Infracorp management team yesterday, Governor Radda warmly acknowledged the ongoing collaborative efforts between the state and the organization.
The focal point of their discussions centered around the Zobe Phase 1B Water Project, an initiative that Governor Radda wholeheartedly embraced from the moment it was presented.
After receiving an insightful briefing on the current Phase 1B water project and closely assessing its challenges, Governor Radda swiftly grasped the pressing need to broaden its scope. This expansion, he acknowledged, would be crucial in addressing water distribution challenges that have persisted for decades. The existing water distribution infrastructure, which has stood for over 47years, now contends with pressure constraints that adversely impact efficient water supply, particularly to the historic town of Katsina.
The ambitious scope of Phase 1B encompasses an array of critical tasks, including the ongoing Study Design, Preparation of Bill of Engineering Measurement and Quantities, the formulation of Bid Documents, and meticulous Supervision required for the laying of Potable Water Transmission Mains and Distribution networks. The ultimate goal is to cater to the needs of over 80% of the intended beneficiaries of the Zobe Regional Water Supply Scheme.
Moreover, the Katsina State Government is actively seeking intervention to meet the burgeoning potable water demand of Katsina City and the adjoining areas across Phases 1A, 1B, and 2. This vision encompasses a significant expansion of the treatment plant at Zobe Dam, aimed at augmenting its capacity from 80,000m³/day to an impressive 240,000m³/day. This targeted enhancement, designed to surpass the 2030 projected demand, necessitates the creation of additional storage for clear water tanks, effectively replicating the existing treatment plant.
Governor Radda emphasized the profound importance of an extensive overhaul to the water distribution system, poised to cater to the burgeoning demands of the state’s population.
His vision is resolute: “We are very eager to see this project come to fruition. If we can successfully complete this project within our four-year term, we will leave a lasting impact on the lives of the less fortunate, alleviate healthcare challenges, and enhance the overall well-being of our citizens,” he affirmed, underscoring the urgency of securing funding and promptly initiating the project.
Furthermore, Governor Radda reaffirmed the state’s steadfast commitment to fulfilling all necessary prerequisites for securing funding and facilitating the project’s realization. He acknowledged his initial unfamiliarity with Infracorp’s project execution approach upon assuming office but expressed profound satisfaction with the organization’s prompt and supportive response to the state’s water supply initiative.
Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, the leader of the Infracorp team, extended heartfelt congratulations to Governor Radda on his election victory, warmly commending his visionary leadership. Dr. Angbazo elucidated Infracorp’s pivotal role as a government-backed entity ardently focused on propelling infrastructure development. This endeavor receives steadfast support from institutions including the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigerian Sovereign Fund, and the African Finance Corporation.
With a keen awareness of the pressing imperative for comprehensive infrastructure development, Dr. Angbazo underscored Infracorp’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and viability across all projects. He lauded Governor Radda’s resolute prioritization of the water project and expressed buoyant optimism concerning its potential positive impact.
As discussions persist, Infracorp remains steadfastly dedicated to forging a collaborative partnership with Katsina State, ensuring the resounding success of the water project. Additionally, the organization is actively exploring other impactful and transformative infrastructure ventures, including the ambitious Lagos State water project.
