By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Benue State Government has released the sum of One Billion Naira to CGC Nigeria Limited for completion of Otobi and Katsina-Ala water projects.
Commissioner of Water Resources and Environment, Dr Goodwin Oyiwona who made this disclosure in Makurdi in an interview on the celebration of World Water Day, explained that the money is part of N1. 9 billion counterpart funds for the aforesaid projects.
Dr Oyiwona assured that the contractor would soon resume work at the two Water plants to enable people of the areas have access to clean water.
According to the Commissioner, Benue State Government has equally paid its counterpart fund of eight hundred million naira for Sanitation, Hygiene and Water in Nigeria Project, maintaining that one thousand five hundred bore holes have been provided in seven local governments of the state.
Dr Oyiwona hinted that arrangements have reached an advanced stage to reticulate the Makurdi town to ameliorate the water challenge being faced by the people as well as restore power supply at the Greater Makurdi Water Works to ensure regular water supply.
The Commissioner has condemned in its entirety the situation where residents have resorted to drilling bore holes as an alternative means of water, stating that such practice is having negative impact on the environment, describing it as illegal.
He noted that an Executive Bill prohibiting the practice was before the state assembly, warning that anyone found flouting the law will be punished.
He reiterates the commitment of Governor Ortom to ensure that Benue people have access to clean water.
