In an ambitious effort to rejuvenate its long-neglected water sector, the Kaduna State Government has announced a comprehensive four-year plan, allocating a total of N93 billion to address critical infrastructure needs. Speaking at a recent press briefing, Arc Ibrahim Hamza, Commissioner for Public Works and Infrastructure, confirmed the administration’s resolve to tackle long-standing challenges in water delivery and sanitation.
According to Hamza, Governor Uba Sani has already ordered the immediate release of all pending salaries and wages for staff members of the Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC). This intervention, amounting to N800 million, will reinstate staff salaries and put them back on the state payroll until 2027, after which KADSWAC is expected to operate as a fully self-sustaining entity.
The government’s phased funding approach begins with an initial N17 billion this year, followed by N35 billion in 2025, N30 billion in 2026, and a final N11 billion in 2027. This structured investment underscores the state’s commitment to rehabilitating and retrofitting all water treatment facilities and distribution networks, with an added focus on improving sanitation and hygiene standards.
Arc Hamza also emphasized the state’s plan to collaborate with local governments to ensure the continuous operation of essential generators and to strengthen water-related laws to align with Kaduna’s corporate employment policies. This extensive revitalization initiative comes after Governor Sani declared a state of emergency in the water sector three months ago, appointing Engr. Kabir Rufai as the new Managing Director of KADSWAC to lead these critical reforms.
As Kaduna undertakes this multi-year initiative, residents and stakeholders alike are hopeful that these efforts will transform water access and quality across the state, fostering a sustainable model that can serve as an example for other regions.
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