By Azuka Offor
The Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Casmir Chinenye Agummadu, has commenced an inspection tour of existing water schemes in Onitsha and Nnewi as part of the state government’s efforts to improve water infrastructure and expand access to safe drinking water across the state.
During the tour, the commissioner visited the Greater Onitsha Water Scheme Terminal Reservoir located at the Army Barracks area, as well as the Crash Programme Specialized and Localized Urban Water Projects situated along the MCC Road axis in Onitsha metropolis.
The projects are among key facilities captured under the ongoing water infrastructure rehabilitation programme being executed by the Anambra State Ministry of Power and Water Resources.
The inspection, according to the ministry, is aimed at ensuring that contractors handling the projects adhere strictly to approved standards and timelines while guaranteeing residents access to clean and potable water within their communities.
Speaking after the inspection, Engr. Agummadu urged contractors handling the various projects to address identified lapses and ensure full compliance with the expectations and specifications set by the Anambra State Government.
He also called on residents of Onitsha to support the vision of the administration of Chukwuma Soludo in transforming Anambra into a livable and prosperous mega city through the provision of critical infrastructure and social amenities.
The commissioner further warned against vandalism of government facilities, stressing that anyone found sabotaging public infrastructure would face legal consequences.
Also speaking during the inspection of the Amuko Uruagu Nnewi Water Scheme being handled by ONE Dots Nigeria Ltd, the Director of Water Resources in the ministry, Mr. Tochukwu Nwosu, emphasized the importance of community participation in safeguarding government projects.
According to him, communities should establish Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Committees, comprising Presidents-General, village chairmen, and other stakeholders, to help protect the facilities and address operational issues when necessary.
Some residents of the Nnewi community who spoke during the visit commended the state government for the project, noting that the water scheme, which has 18 fetching points, is functioning effectively and providing safe drinking water to residents.
Among those who shared their experiences were Mrs. Ebere Onyemelukwe, a roadside roasted corn seller, and Mrs. Ugochi Nwabueze, an indigene of Enugu State residing in Nnewi and engaged in banana trading.
Members of the inspection team also interacted with several residents fetching water during the visit, as the state government reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to potable water across communities in Anambra State.
Offor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
