Sokoto metropolis now requires an estimated 80 litres of water per day, a sharp increase from the 50 million litres demand in the early 2000s. This demand is driven by population growth, industrial expansion, increased urban development, and rising standards of living. The newly commissioned facilities are designed to meet the current demand with some buffer for future growth.

The importance of solving the water crisis cannot be overstated. Reliable water supply impacts on public health to reduce waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid.

It impacts economic growth and industries since small businesses, manufacturing and agriculture depend on a steady water supply. There is also a positive education impact of water availability, being that school children, especially girls, would no longer have to spend hours fetching water. Social stability is enhanced because tensions over water access in some communities are expected to ease.

For the project to succeed and outlive the current administration, public support is essential. Citizens are encouraged to report leakages, vandalism, and illegal connections.

Also, water users are encouraged to embrace prompt payment of water bills to sustain operational costs and to actively participate in community-led water management committees. There is a need to promote water conservation and avoid wasteful use.

The commissioning of the Sokoto water project under Governor Ahmad Aliyu represents not just the completion of pipelines and treatment plants but the rekindling of hope for millions.

While the ghosts of past failures serve as a sobering reminder, the current administration’s approach, built on transparency, community engagement, and future-proofing, holds promise.

Governor Sokoto must not relent until the Tamaje Water scheme, the Gagi Water Scheme, the Mana Water Scheme, the Runjin Sambo Water Scheme and Ruga Liman Water Scheme are completed. When completed, the six (6) water schemes are expected to provide 40 million liters of water per day to the people of Sokoto metropolis.

Indeed, a new era of water abundance for Sokoto is not just a dream but now a flowing reality. The responsibility of sustaining this progress, however, lies with both the government and the people.

Mohammed writes from Sokoto