Mr Dan Nwaomeh, the Senior Special Assistant on Mainstream Media to Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, stated that over 200 houses in some parts of the state are built on water lines.
Nwaomeh revealed this in Enugu on Friday at the inaugural CSO/Media Exchange organized by the Network of Water Rights Initiative along with the Global Society for Anti-corruption, Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and the Media Unit, Government House, Enugu.
The occurrence was part of the activities commemorating the 2024 International Water Day in Enugu, with the theme: “Water for Peace”.
The governor’s media aide observed that this situation has made it challenging for engineers to work in those areas.
He mentioned, “These houses were constructed unlawfully, and the governor decided not to demolish them but to find alternate solutions to the water problems in the areas.
“Due to this obstacle, the State Water Corporation is unable to carry out numerous necessary tasks.
“However, this will not deter us from delivering water to every household in the state as the governor is tirelessly working towards ensuring water availability.”
Nwaomeh indicated that the governor pledged to make water accessible within 180 days of assuming office as governor, and he was able to fulfill this target.
He reported that the replacement of old water pipes and valves in some parts of the state is currently in progress to ensure that all residences have access to clean and hygienic drinking water.
In his remarks, Mr Tony Adibe, representing the Correspondent Chapel, encouraged state residents to support Gov. Peter Mbah in his efforts to provide water for all.
Adibe praised the governor for addressing the long-standing water challenge in the state, particularly in Enugu metropolis, with dedication and political determination.
“The issue and challenge of water is a burden carried by every resident of Enugu metropolis; however, we are grateful for Gov. Peter Mbah for alleviating this burden,” he commented.
Amb. Amaka Nweke, the Coordinator of Network of Water Right Initiative, stated in her address that investing in water infrastructure and technology could empower communities, laying the foundation for prosperity and harmony.
Nweke mentioned that the event aimed to deepen understanding of water-related matters, promote peace-building initiatives, and strengthen cooperation between media professionals and civil society organizations to address water scarcity.
She added, “We should contemplate the significant role that water plays in fostering peace and unity worldwide, even within our communities.
She stated that water stakeholders should acknowledge the interconnection of water and peace, “as access to clean water establishes a basis for stability and collaboration.
“In many regions, water shortage intensifies tensions and contributes to conflicts. Today, let us commit to transforming water from a potential source of contention into a catalyst for cooperation.
“By focusing on sustainable water management practices and promoting fair distribution, we can reduce conflicts caused by water scarcity and make way for peaceful coexistence.
“We will not overlook the efforts of Governor Peter Mbah's administration to combat water scarcity in Enugu State.
“We are grateful that Enugu State can claim to have 120 million liters of water per day.
“We have also witnessed the ongoing replacement of old asbestos pipes with modern ductile pipes to ensure smooth transportation of clean water to our homes,” she said.
NAN
