The Ebonyi State Government has commenced the reactivation of long-abandoned water schemes as part of efforts to address perennial water scarcity, especially during the dry season.
The state government confirmed the arrival of key equipment required for the rehabilitation of major water facilities, a move aimed at restoring consistent potable water supply across parts of the state.
Speaking on the development, the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Mr. Leo Oketa, described the delivery of the equipment as a significant step toward achieving Governor Francis Nwifuru’s commitment to improved access to clean water for residents.
According to Oketa, the newly delivered equipment includes three industrial-grade water pumps sourced from Valencia, Spain. The pumps, manufactured by Bombas Ideal, were designed specifically to meet the operational demands of the state’s water infrastructure.
He explained that the pumps will convey raw water from the Onuebeonyi River to the high-lift station located at Juju Hill, where the water will undergo treatment before distribution. Once treated, the water will be stored in the newly completed 500-million-litre Iboko Reservoir and supplied to households across Izzi and Abakaliki Local Government Areas.
The governor’s aide lamented that the old low-lift water facility, which previously served Abakaliki and surrounding communities, had suffered years of neglect. He noted that critical equipment was stolen, buildings vandalised, and the facility eventually became a hideout for criminal elements.
He added that the access road to the facility had also been overtaken by thick vegetation, forcing nearby residents to abandon their homes and farmlands due to insecurity.
However, Oketa stated that the situation has since changed following the intervention of the current administration. The access road has now been reconstructed with reinforced concrete, making the area accessible and safer. Security has also been strengthened to prevent further vandalism.
“As a result of the improved security situation, farmers who previously abandoned their farmlands due to criminal activities have returned to resume cultivation,” he said.
The state government has also rebuilt key structures within the facility, including a new pump house, generator house, and security post, all of which had been destroyed in the past.
To ensure efficient water delivery, Oketa revealed that all damaged pipelines have been removed and replaced with new ones that will transport water from the low-lift station to the high-lift station for the first time in several years.
He further disclosed that the Nwifuru administration has gone beyond reviving a single water scheme, noting that four out of the five major water schemes in the state are currently being rehabilitated.
“This reflects the governor’s determination to address the everyday needs of the people and ensure sustainable access to clean water,” Oketa said.
He concluded that the revival of the abandoned water facilities aligns with the administration’s People’s Charter of Needs and represents a major step toward improving public health and living conditions in Ebonyi State.
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