From Ibrahim Kanoma Gusau
Zamfara state Governor, Dr Dauda Lawal yesterday, inaugurated the state Water Supply Restoration Advisory Committee.
Inaugurating the Eight (8) man water experts technical committee at the conference Hall of Government House in Gusau, Governor Lawal said the decision to establish the committee was sequel to his administration’s strong determination to effectively address the persistent water supply problem in Gusau and surrounding communities and by extension the entire Zamfara state.
He then charged them to use their vast experience and expertise to bear in bringing to an end short and long-term solutions to the aged long water supply problem that bedevilled Gusau the state capital and its environs even before the creation of the State in 1996.
Governor Lawal further maintained that the establishment of the committee reflects his Administration’s deep concern and share determination to tackle the problem head-on hence the need to bring their expertise to bear in this direction.
Governor Dauda gave the committee seven (7) terms of reference as guiding tools, including among others to vet and sanction all operations of Gusau Water Board, to fully examine operations of the board, identify deficiencies and areas requiring improvement and implement necessary measures to ensure efficiency and accountability of the board.
To come up with a strategy for a short-term plan for the immediate resumption of the Water supply in Gusau and its environs to alleviate the suffering of the people.
The committee is also charged with the responsibility of identifying reasons for the persistent water problems in the State and proffering suitable solutions for the perennial water supply line interruptions in the State.
Furthermore, the State Chief Executive added that by the constitution and subsequent inauguration of the committee, the residents of Gusau and its surroundings have high expectations and hopes for the committee members therefore they must approach their assignment with dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Responding shortly after their inauguration, the chairman of the Restoration Advisory Committee, (Rtd) Permanent Secretary, Engineer Bawa Sani Dauran thanked the State Governor for identifying and giving them the mandate to serve in that capacity.
While promising to justify the confidence reposed on them, the veteran water engineer called on the Government to as a matter of urgency arrange with Kaduna Electric Power Company (KEDCO) for the constant supply of electricity to Water Board areas as part of concrete measures of ensuring uninterrupted supply of water to Gusau and it’s environs; as standby generators alone cannot guaranty supply of the much-needed power to the treatment plants
Engineer Dauran assured the State Governor that everything humanly possible will be done to ensure a constant supply of water and urge the State Government to provide an enabling environment with both morale and finances for them to operate within the shortest possible time provided.
The committee has Engineer Bawa Sani Dauran as chairman while Engr Bello Sani, Engr Sani Mustapha and Engr Samaila S.Fulani are to serve as members.
Others are Engr. Iliyasu Labaran, Engr Babangida Sani Abubakar and Engr Buhari Salihu Dosara while Alhaji Garba Aliyu Gayari, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources will serve as the Secretary of the committee.