Abuja: President Bola Tinubu announced the end of the era of neglect for satellite towns in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) while inaugurating the newly constructed Karu Water Supply Network. Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized that the residents of Karu, who relied on unsafe boreholes and water vendors for decades, would now have access to clean water.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu stated that previous administrations only left unfulfilled promises, but his administration is focused on delivering results. He highlighted that the inauguration is not just ceremonial but a fulfillment of a fundamental human right. The administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda aims to ensure governance reaches beyond city centers to peripheral areas lacking basic amenities.
Tinubu recalled the directive given during the commissioning of the Greater Abuja Water Supply project, emphasizing the need for water infrastructure to extend into satellite towns. The endorsement of the Karu water supply project by the Minister of the FCT, Mr. Nyesom Wike, was met with prompt action, ensuring timely funding and completion of over 194 kilometers of pipeline networks. This project brings treated water to several communities, including Karu, Orozo, Jikwoyi, and Kurudu.
The President praised Wike’s leadership, equating effective leadership with tangible impacts on citizens’ lives. Tinubu noted the FCT’s advancements in various sectors like transport, healthcare, and education as evidence of the administration’s vision and executive capacity. He expressed gratitude to Wike, referring to him as ‘Mr. Project,’ for his leadership.
As the administration marks its third anniversary and the 50th Anniversary of the FCT’s creation, Tinubu sees this project as a blueprint for future developments. Plans are underway to replicate similar interventions in other area councils like Bwari. He assured FCT residents and Nigerians of ongoing reforms and developments to benefit those in need.
Minister Wike highlighted the project as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding signed in China in 2024 with CGC, aiming to enhance water supply in satellite towns. He acknowledged Tinubu’s budgetary support for these initiatives and celebrated the project’s completion in less than a year.
Mr. Richard Dauda, the acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, stated that the construction and expansion contract for Karu’s water supply was awarded in August 2023. The project utilizes the existing Karu reservoir tank to extend water services to underserved areas, transforming Karu from a satellite town into an urban center.