The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated the 2022/2023 Expanded Water Sanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) project implementation in Abuja. The project represents a crucial effort to address the persisting challenges associated with inadequate water supply in various regions. The project focuses on drilling 72 water boreholes, incorporating innovative solar-powered technology, across five states in Nigeria.
The Federal Government issued a resolute warning to contractors engaged in the projects. They underscored its unwavering commitment to the high standard of contract execution. The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, delivered the stern message during the official launch in Abuja.
This water project holds immense importance for Nigeria. It seeks to tackle water supply issues that have plagued many communities, particularly in rural areas. Access to clean and reliable water sources is fundamental to public health, sanitation, and overall quality of life. Therefore, ensuring the successful implementation of the PEWASH project is of paramount importance to the government.
The Main Challenge Facing The Water, Sanitation, And Hygiene Sector In Nigeria.
Minister Utsev conveyed the government’s deep concern about the recurrent difficulties faced in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. One of the main issues has been the frequent failures of water supply systems. Non-compliance with contract specifications and substandard construction practices, primarily attributed to these failures, often leading to the abandonment of dysfunctional systems.
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In response to these challenges, the Federal Government initiated the ‘Counterpart Projects Matching’ approach, as outlined in the PEWASH Protocol. Collaborating closely with five state governments is part of this approach to ensure the project’s objectives are effectively met. It aims to harmonize efforts, resources, and expertise to achieve optimal outcomes.
Minister Utsev firmly articulated the government’s stance on contract quality, emphasizing that any form of contract deviation, transfer, or delay in execution will not be tolerated. The government places great significance on the timely and qualitative delivery of projects to the rural communities it serves. The Minister urged all stakeholders involved in the PEWASH water projects in Nigeria to strictly adhere to the established guidelines and protocols throughout every phase of the project, from its commencement to completion.
In conclusion, the government’s uncompromising stance on the quality of the PEWASH project execution underscores its commitment to improving water supply and sanitation in Nigeria. The success of this initiative will not only alleviate the challenges faced by communities but also contribute to the broader goal of achieving sustainable development and better living conditions for the Nigerian population.
