The Nigerian government plans to complete the multipurpose Farin Ruwa Dam project in Nasarawa State, emphasizing its importance for water supply, irrigation, hydro-power generation, and job creation in the region.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, made this known when he hosted the Nasarrawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule in his office in Abuja.
Professor Utsev said that the strategic location of the Farin Ruwa Multipurpose Dam project in Nassarawa State, near the Federal Capital Territory FCT and other States underscores its potential impact on the region’s development, aligning with the goals of the government.
The Minister informed Governor Abdullahi that the Farin Ruwa Dam, with its hydro-power capacity of approximately 25mgts, has been included in the 2024 appropriation and construction in progress.
“The embankments have already been finished, and work is now focused on the crest level.”
Professor Utsev said that upon completion, the dam will guarantee ample water supply for households, irrigation, hydro-power generation and many more.
He noted that it will not only benefit Nassarawa State but also Benue State as well as the FCT.
He added that the project would foster job creation, and wealth generation, and ensure food security.
The Minister also mentioned that the Doma Dam in Nasarawa State is among those slated for rehabilitation by the Federal Government.
Prof. Utsev expressed gratitude for the Governor’s visit and reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to partnering with the Nassarawa State government on initiatives relating to food security, water supply, and hydropower generation.
He stressed the pivotal role of the Federal Government in implementing water and sanitation programmes across states and encouraged active participation from state governments in collaborative efforts for the mutual welfare of citizens.
The Honourable Minister urged the Governor to embrace the ‘Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign’ to facilitate Nasarawa State’s registration among open defecation-free (ODF) states, aligning with the national goal of achieving ODF status by 2025.
He underscored that currently, only Jigawa State has attained ODF status.
He emphasized the campaign’s importance in eradicating waterborne diseases like Typhoid fever, diarrhoea, and malaria, thereby promoting public health and contributing to national prosperity.
Speaking earlier, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule emphasized the Ministry’s significance in realizing the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Governor reiterated Nasarawa State’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry, particularly in counterpart projects tailored for state governments.
-Lantana Nasir
