Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has directed the immediate commencement of a crucial project aimed at enhancing urban water supply and infrastructure. Known as the “New Agenda,” this project was officially kickstarted during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the state government and the China Energy & Engineering Group of Companies (CEEC) and Hydronamics Limited at the Government House in Katsina.
During the signing ceremony, Governor Malam Dikko Radda expressed the state government’s unwavering commitment to achieving significant milestones by the year 2024. Despite the project’s three-year completion period, Governor Radda emphasized the urgent need for visible improvements within the year and assured full support for its successful execution.
Hamza Yunusa, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hydronamics, shed light on the project’s scope, which includes the rehabilitation of dams in Gwaigwaye, Jibia, Mashi, and Dutsi, as well as the construction of new dams in Malumfashi and Katsina. Additionally, the project encompasses the deployment of smart water meters, digital payment systems, as well as leakage detection systems. It also includes the expansion of distribution systems, transmission mains, and the installation of 66 Megawatts of solar energy equipment in water works across 12 LGAs. The energy transition to solar power is aimed at reducing over dependence on the grid, while also reducing cost of water production and distribution.
Engr. Tukur Hassan Tingilin, Managing Director of the State Water Board, provided insights into the project’s financial aspects, revealing that over 24 billion naira had already been allocated in the 2024 budget. He highlighted the comprehensive nature of the project, covering the rehabilitation of dams and other infrastructures, along with the reconstruction of the State Water Board Headquarters.
The signing of the MOU was witnessed by Alhaji Hamza Suleiman Faskari, the State Commissioner of Water Resources, and Hon Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji, the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor underscoring the collaborative effort to address water challenges in Katsina State.
