The Rivers State Government has released its counter part funding of the European Union Niger Delta Support Programme (EU-NDSP) on water project to facilitate the provision of water in rural communities across the State.
This is on the heels of the prevailing global COVID-19 pandemic, and the need for regular hand washing to curtail transmission of the virus,
The State Commissioner for Water Resources and Rural Development, Dr Tamuno Sisi Gogo Jaja made this known when the EU’s team led by Mr Albert Achten visited his office in Port-Harcourt to update him on the Rural Water Project Scheme in the State as well as notify him of his vocation.
Dr Jaja noted that when operational, the water scheme will bring quality water closer to the people in the rural communities, enhance regular hand washing, especially in this Covid-19 era, and also reaffirm Governor Wike’s commitment in the provision of safe drinkable water to other residents of the State.
He noted that Rivers State is safe for investors and advised contractors handling the water project who have issues to return to site to enable them access their balance of payment.
Jaja also thanked Governor Wike for funding the project, urging the EU- NDSP water scheme benefitting communities of Abonnema, kula, Abissa, Opobo, Kalaibiama, Nkoro and Okrika to reciprocate the government’s gesture by protecting the facilities from being vandalized.
While commending EU for the extent of work done at the various water project sites, the Commissioner expressed the State Government’s willingness to partner with them on any other projects.
Earlier, the European Union representative and leader of the delegation, Mr Achten thanked the Rivers State Government for the hospitality accorded him during his stay, saying that he would be pleased to return to the State for any other responsibility, if given another opportunity.
Mr Achten further disclosed that the rural water scheme has been completed in most of the benefitting communities, and is at 98 per cent stage of completion in others.
