Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the release of N850 million for the rehabilitation and upgrade of boreholes in Maiduguri and surrounding communities, as part of efforts to tackle water scarcity following the September 10, 2024, flood disaster.
The announcement was made by the General Manager of the Borno State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), Dr. Mohammed Aliyu, during a press briefing in Maiduguri. He said the funds would be used to procure pumps, accessories, and other essential components needed for restoring damaged water systems.
“His Excellency has approved N850 million for the procurement of pumps, accessories, and spare parts for the rehabilitation of boreholes in Maiduguri and nearby areas,” Aliyu stated, adding that suppliers have already begun delivering materials.
To expedite repairs, RUWASA has set up a Rapid Response Team tasked with inspecting and fixing boreholes in flood-affected locations. The team will be deployed across Maiduguri, Jere, Dikwa, Mafa, Gamboru Ngala, and other impacted local government areas.
“The team will begin work immediately and complete its assessment within two weeks,” Aliyu said. “They will work in collaboration with the State Ministry of Water Resources and other relevant professionals.”
In a further step to improve water access, Governor Zulum also approved the construction of new waterworks in several towns, including Zarmari, Shaukari, Gubio, Gajiganna, Gajiram, Kaleri, and Mafa.
According to Aliyu, these projects build on earlier successes by the Zulum administration, which has already completed water infrastructure projects in Pulka, Chibok, Azare (Hawul LGA), Moramti (Konduga LGA), and Ngarannam (Maiduguri Metropolis).
The initiative is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable access to clean water across Borno State, especially in communities hit hardest by natural disasters.
Edited by Nzubechukwu Eze.
