By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki
Governor Francis Nwifuru has launched extensive water projects to improve access to clean water in rural and urban communities in Ebonyi State.
He made this known in his address on Tuesday during the occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary and 28th year of the Ebonyi state creation at Abakaliki.
Nwifuru who described water as life, disclosed that his administration has expanded the state water supply infrastructure by reactivating the Oferekpe Water Scheme.
He said the water scheme at Oferekpe would soon commence pumping water, adding that “when reticulated, it will supply water to Izzi, Abakaliki, Ebonyi, Ezza North and South local government areas of the state.
“The old Abakaliki Water Scheme will come alive again. We are currently putting up necessary structures at the low-lift water facility at the Onuebonyi River.
“The high lift water facility at the juju hill has been reactivated and is ready to receive the water from the low lift to pump water to various areas of the State and the Iboko Water reservoir.
As I speak to you, the Iboko water reservoir is almost completed. The 500 cubic meter tank when completed, will cover a large area.
“Ishiagu water scheme is another ongoing project dear to our hearts. The project is under construction now and it is meant to serve the entire Ivo Local Government area.
“And of course, we have completely revitalized the Ezillo water treatment plant and the reservoir at Umuoghara.
My good people of Ebonyi State, be assured that the problem of perennial water scarcity will soon be over.”