The annual scarcity of potable water has hit Minna, the Niger State capital, and its environs, as residents now trek long distances to source the commodity for domestic use.
Niger Tribune Reports indicate that the acute shortage of potable water in Minna has persisted for the past two weeks, forcing children and women to wake up as early as 4 a.m. to trek distances of over two to three kilometers in search of water.
Children, many of whom are of school age, have been seen in large numbers abandoning their education to search for water for drinking and domestic chores.
Residents of Minna metropolis are grappling with severe water scarcity, which the Niger State government attributes to the vandalism of critical infrastructure.
In the past two weeks, the lack of water for drinking and domestic use has remained a significant challenge in Minna’s metropolitan areas, despite substantial investments by both current and previous state governments aimed at ensuring a consistent water supply.
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As early as 6 a.m., residents can be seen across various parts of the city carrying jerrycans, plastic buckets, and other containers in search of water, with many traveling long distances to obtain this essential commodity.
Nigerian Tribune’s investigation further revealed that water vendors, popularly known as Yan Ga Ruwa, are capitalizing on the situation, with the price of a truck carrying ten 20-liter jerrycans of borehole water rising to as much as N900 or N1,000.
Speaking to newsmen in Minna, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources and Dams Development, Mallam Akilu Musa Kuta, explained that the ministry is working tirelessly to address the situation. He highlighted ongoing repair work at several affected sites.
Kuta attributed the water scarcity to the activities of suspected vandals who have reportedly damaged water pipes and stolen essential equipment in parts of Minna.
He called on residents and communities to assist the government in safeguarding water infrastructure to prevent further vandalism.
Kuta also commended security agencies in the state for their efforts in protecting water pipes and assured residents that the ministry is committed to restoring water supply as quickly as possible.
According to him, plumbers have been deployed to repair damaged pipes and replace stolen equipment. He added that the water board is working diligently to ensure communities regain access to potable water.
Meanwhile, the ongoing water scarcity has caused significant hardship for residents of Minna and its environs, forcing many to pay exorbitant prices to water vendors. These vendors often source water from private homes and government reservoirs and sell it to the public at high rates.
