The project, valued at about ₦50 billion, was awarded to Messrs SCC Nigeria Limited in September 2022 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking at the inauguration, Wike said the rehabilitation would significantly boost the capacity of the plant and improve water supply across the FCT.
“This project was awarded before the current administration came on board. But in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Tinubu gave clear directives that water, being an essential service, must be prioritized. Phase 2 is critical because it increases the carrying capacity and ensures a more reliable supply of potable water to residents,” he said.
More Phases, Satellite Town Projects Approved
Wike disclosed that the Federal Executive Council recently approved the rehabilitation of Phases 1, 3, and 4 of the treatment plants to enhance water supply across Abuja. He added that President Tinubu last year signed a ₦90 billion agreement with China Geo-Engineering Company to provide water to satellite towns.
“By tomorrow, we will flag off one of the satellite water plants in Bwari, and on Thursday, we will be in Karu for another water supply project. This shows that we are not only developing the city but also taking critical infrastructure to the satellite towns,” Wike said.
Restoring Plant Capacity
Giving a project overview, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, explained that the rehabilitation was necessary due to ageing components and the risk of collapse at the facilities.
He noted that the combined capacity of the four water treatment plants at the Lower Usuma Dam is 30,000 cubic meters per hour, with Phase 2 alone having a 5,000 cubic meter per hour capacity.
“The completion of this work restores Phase 2 to its full capacity, ensuring that water supplied conforms to international standards for potable consumption,” Dauda stated.
The minister emphasized that the projects align with the government’s broader commitment to essential infrastructure and improved living standards in the FCT.
