Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
Abakaliki – The Ebonyi State Government is ramping up efforts to ensure the reticulation of water to every street within the Abakaliki metropolis, according to the Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Chinedu Nkah.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, Nkah disclosed that with the full backing of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the Ministry of Water Resources has successfully reclaimed and revitalised several previously abandoned water schemes in the state.
“We have been able to reclaim the abandoned Eziulo water scheme, and it is now functioning at full capacity. Oferekpe, which was also abandoned, is 90 per cent rehabilitated. The old Abakaliki Water Scheme has also reached 90 per cent rehabilitation,” the Commissioner revealed.
He further highlighted the significant expansion of infrastructure at Eziulo, noting the addition of a new reservoir to complement the existing one. “We now have two reservoirs at Eziulo and another new one in the south, where the local government headquarters are located. This is specifically to serve the ageing population in the Eziulo South area.”
Describing the ongoing achievements as a “very good success story,” Nkah expressed optimism that the water situation in the capital city would vastly improve before the end of 2025.
“You will agree with me that by the end of this year, we will have sufficient water for the capital city and its surrounding areas. The biggest challenge before us now is to ensure the proper articulation and reticulation of streets and new layouts, including places that currently lack pipe-borne water,” he said.
Nkah appealed to residents who are yet to be connected to the water grid to be patient, assuring them that plans have been perfected for full street-level water access across Abakaliki.
“Bringing water from Oferekpe and Eziulo is no longer the issue—they are both functional. What remains is ensuring the water reaches every household and office through efficient distribution. And we are working very hard to achieve that,” he concluded.