Ekiti State Boosts Water Access With 110 New Solar-Powered Pumps.
In a significant step towards improving access to clean water and sanitation, the Ekiti State Government has taken delivery of 110 solar-powered pumps and accessories to support the construction of 110 new Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities across its 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 22 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). This initiative, part of the World Bank-supported Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme, aims to enhance public health and quality of life for residents, particularly in underserved communities.
The Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Professor Mobolaji Aluko, announced the development during a press briefing in Ado-Ekiti. He explained that the new facilities, which include solar-powered boreholes, will be installed in 55 schools and 55 health centres across the state. Each LGA and LCDA will receive at least two units, with additional units allocated to Ado LGA due to its higher population density. “This bulk purchase of pumps is a deliberate move to reduce costs, standardise quality, and ensure efficient maintenance post-installation,” Aluko stated.
The initiative builds on Ekiti State’s ongoing efforts to address water and sanitation challenges. Over the past two years, the state has rehabilitated 121 WASH facilities and constructed 64 solar-powered boreholes, significantly improving access to potable water. The new batch of 110 facilities is expected to further bridge the gap, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where access to clean water remains limited.
Professor Aluko emphasised the importance of community involvement in sustaining these projects. “We urge residents to take ownership of these facilities, ensuring accountability and proper management to guarantee long-term functionality,” he said. He also highlighted the government’s plans to address electricity supply challenges for the state’s dams, including Ero, Egbe, Ureje, and Itapaji, by exploring dedicated power solutions such as solar, gas, and small hydropower sources. These measures aim to support both water supply and agricultural irrigation, boosting economic development.
The SURWASH programme, backed by the World Bank, is designed to expand access to water and sanitation services across Nigeria. Ekiti State’s participation in the programme underscores its commitment to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6, which calls for universal access to safely managed water and sanitation by 2030. The state has also invested heavily in the sector, with ₦316.5 million recently allocated for procuring the Grundfos solar water pumps under the SURWASH initiative.
Residents have welcomed the development, with many expressing optimism about its impact. Mrs Daramola Bosede, a resident of Ado-Ekiti, recalled past struggles with accessing clean water: “We used to pay exorbitant prices for water from private sellers, with no guarantee of its safety. Projects like this make a real difference.”
The Ekiti State Government’s proactive approach has also been praised on social media. A post by the Ministry of Information on X noted, “In continuation of efforts to guarantee adequate provision of potable water, sanitation, and hygiene to residents, Ekiti State Government has taken delivery of 110 solar-powered pumps.” The announcement garnered positive reactions from users, who commended the state’s focus on sustainable infrastructure.
As the installation of these new facilities begins, the Ekiti State Government remains committed to reducing waterborne diseases and improving living standards. With community engagement and innovative solutions like solar-powered pumps, Ekiti is paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.
For more information, contact the Ekiti State Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities or visit www.ekitistate.gov.ng.
