The Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals and Water Resources, Hon. Damilola Otubanjo, has called for urgent upgrades to the state’s water infrastructure following an extensive inspection of key water facilities in Abeokuta.
The inspection, which covered the Arakanga Main Scheme (both New and Old), Adatan Booster Station, Oke-Temidire Reservoir, Alamala, Panseke, Ibara Booster Station, and the Abeokuta Area Office, revealed critical issues affecting water service delivery in the state capital.
Hon. Otubanjo emphasised the pressing need for modernization, rehabilitation, and maintenance of the water facilities to guarantee a consistent and safe water supply for residents.
“This inspection has provided valuable insights into the state of our facilities. It is evident that there is a need for proper maintenance, additional manpower, and significant infrastructure upgrades.
“The government is committed to making the necessary investments and adopting advanced technologies to modernize these systems, ensuring a reliable and safe water supply for all,” she said.
She praised the commitment and dedication of facility staff, despite challenges such as aging infrastructure, frequent pipe leakages, and limited resources.
Hon. Otubanjo assured the staff that the government would address these challenges and improve their working conditions to enhance service delivery.
Speaking alongside the Special Adviser, the Governor’s Consultant on Water, Alhaja Muinat Jaji, explained that the findings from the inspection would inform a comprehensive reform strategy to optimize water production and distribution across Ogun State.
The strategy will also include efforts to revamp water systems in regions such as Papalanto, Ota, Ijebu-Ode Yemoji, and Apoje Water Works, alongside various borehole schemes.
Alhaja Jaji further appealed to residents to pay their water bills promptly and report any damaged or leaking pipelines to prevent water contamination.
She also reassured residents that ongoing efforts would restore water supplies to customers who were disconnected due to road construction projects under the previous administration.
The inspection was positively received by local residents, including Mrs. Nofisat Olanrewaju from Obantoko, Abeokuta, who praised the government’s efforts.
Also, Arch. Sulaiman Oladipo, the Chairman of Workers’ Estate, Laderin, Abeokuta, lauded the proactive measures taken by the government and assured that the community would continue to support ongoing efforts to improve the state’s water infrastructure.
