FG Approves N90bn for Bwari, Karu Water Projects, Commissions N50bn Usuma Dam Plant

The Federal Government has approved N90 billion for new water supply projects in Bwari and Karu, both in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as part of efforts to expand access to clean water for Abuja residents.

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this on Tuesday while commissioning the rehabilitated Phase 2 water treatment plant at the Lower Usuma Dam in Ushafa, a project valued at N50 billion and awarded in 2022.

According to him, the Bwari water project will be flagged off on Wednesday, while the Karu project will commence on Thursday.

Key Details:

• Project Costs: Bwari and Karu schemes – N90bn; Usuma Dam Phase 2 rehabilitation – N50bn.
• Impact: The projects are expected to significantly improve water distribution in satellite towns and complement existing water infrastructure.
• Partnerships: The FCT Administration is working with Chinese construction giants CCECC and CGCOC Group, following agreements signed during President Tinubu’s 2023 state visit to China.
• Progress: The Greater Abuja Water Works project, managed by CGCOC, was already 75% complete as of September 2024 and targeted for completion by December 2024.

Wike emphasized that the administration’s focus extends beyond roads to essential services like water and education. He directed the FCT Education Secretary to publish a comprehensive list of completed and ongoing school projects and conduct media tours of rural schools.

Why it matters:

The move is expected to boost water supply in Abuja’s fast-growing satellite towns, reduce reliance on overstretched facilities, and improve residents’ quality of life.