Abuja: WaterAid Nigeria, in collaboration with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (CHC), has successfully commissioned solar-powered boreholes and sanitation facilities in four communities within the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This initiative, part of the CHC Year 2 Project, was undertaken to enhance access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in these peri-urban and rural areas.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Evelyn Mere, Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, highlighted that the CHC Year 2 Project builds on the achievements of the previous year’s efforts, aiming to further expand WASH access and bolster local systems for sustainable outcomes. Mere, represented by Idowu Adebayo during the handover ceremony, emphasized the establishment of WASH management committees in the four communities. These committees have been trained and equipped to promote hygiene practices and ensure proper facility management.
The project has notably impacted 15,261 individuals, providing them with improved access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene services. Mere pointed out that this development signifies more than just numbers; it represents a renewed sense of dignity for families, allowing children to learn in cleaner school environments and fostering healthier community living. She expressed gratitude towards The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for their ongoing partnership and encouraged community members to take responsibility for the maintenance of these facilities.
WaterAid’s Sanitation and Hygiene Coordinator, Mr. Obinna Ogbodo, detailed the project’s reach, indicating that Sabongari 3 and Kogo 1 communities received solar-powered boreholes with water kiosks. The Igu community saw an upgrade in its water infrastructure to withstand dry season challenges, while Barangoni community benefited from a solar-powered borehole paired with gender-sensitive sanitation facilities for schools.
Ogbodo also noted that these interventions were designed to tackle persistent water supply and sanitation issues, particularly during the dry season when access to safe water becomes challenging for many households. The Chief of Kogo 1 community, Mr. Samuel Gimba, expressed relief over the intervention, acknowledging the significant alleviation of water scarcity for residents.
In concurrence, Mr. Eli Kadanya, representing the Chairman of Bwari Area Council, lauded WaterAid and its partners for addressing a critical challenge-access to water-in the area. He noted the establishment of committees across benefiting communities to ensure the efficient operation and upkeep of the boreholes and sanitation facilities.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that this initiative is part of a broader effort under the CHC Year 2 Project, implemented in collaboration with the FCT Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Bwari Area Council Management, and local leaders. The project focused on bolstering systems, enhancing government collaboration, and promoting sustainable WASH service models to cater to urbanization and population growth. All water sources from the project were tested and confirmed to meet national standards, free from faecal contamination, with the overarching goal of improving community health and wellbeing.