Sokoto Govt Counters Dan’iya, Clarifies ₦25bn Water Works, 4.2MW Solar Project

The Sokoto State Government has dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, over the persistent water shortage in the state, insisting that major investments are underway to address the crisis.

In a rejoinder issued by the Ministry of Water Resources and signed by the Commissioner, the government maintained that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration had initiated several projects aimed at providing sustainable water supply across Sokoto metropolis and other parts of the state.

The ministry clarified that the ₦25 billion allocated for the rehabilitation of the Sokoto Township Water Works and the ₦5 billion earmarked for solarisation in the 2026 Citizens Budget were provisions for multi-year projects, rather than funds already released or spent.

“Government acknowledges that the water sector requires massive investment. However, budget appropriation is not the same as cash backing. Releases are made in phases based on project milestones, procurement processes and available revenue,” the ministry stated.

It explained that the ₦64.09 million recorded as expenditure during the first quarter of 2026 covered preliminary mobilisation and consultancy services, while additional funding was being processed for subsequent phases of implementation.

Highlighting the administration’s interventions, the ministry disclosed that a contract for the installation of 10,000 solar panels, expected to generate 4.2 megawatts of electricity, was awarded in May 2026.

According to the government, site clearing and procurement are ongoing, with the project expected to provide a more reliable electricity supply for water pumping operations and reduce dependence on the national grid.

“The project is designed to reduce dependence on the national grid and provide the power required to operate the water pumps on a 24-hour basis,” the ministry explained.

The government further disclosed that 42 solar-powered boreholes had been provided across Sokoto metropolis, including Tudun-Wada Gebe, Tudun-Wada Old Cemetery, Bazza Area, Dallatu Road, Lamido Adama Road, Kofar Atiku and Shagari Close.

It also identified six major water schemes undergoing various stages of rehabilitation, design and procurement in Tamaje, Old Airport, Gagi, Mana, Runjin Sambo and Ruga Liman.

The ministry said the six schemes, estimated to cost ₦14.1 billion, were projected to deliver a combined 40 million gallons of water daily upon completion.

It stressed that the estimated amount represented the overall project cost and should not be mistaken for expenditure already incurred.

On measures taken to address the immediate water shortage, the government claimed that more than 120 kilometres of damaged pipelines had been repaired across Sokoto metropolis over the past 18 months, alongside the installation of booster stations to improve water pressure.

Acknowledging the financial burden on residents who purchase water from vendors, the ministry said the administration was prioritising lasting solutions to the problem.

“Government understands the hardship of buying water at ₦200 to ₦300 per 25 litres. That is precisely why we are investing in long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes,” it stated.

Responding to Dan’iya’s criticism, the ministry maintained that the administration remained committed to improving access to potable water and urged political stakeholders to support efforts to protect public water infrastructure.

“Water is a fundamental right, not a campaign slogan. Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration will not politicize it,” the ministry declared.

It assured residents that measurable improvements from the solarisation project and the six major water schemes would begin to emerge within the next 12 months.

The government also promised to continue publishing budget performance reports and invited stakeholders to inspect project sites to independently verify implementation progress.

It urged residents to safeguard public water facilities and pay applicable water bills to ensure the sustainability of the state’s water supply system.