The Gombe government has expended over N9 billion on water supply services in the last six years.

Mohammed Fawu, Commissioner for Water, Environment and Forest Resources, said this at the end of the 49th State Executive Council meeting on Monday in Gombe.

He said the administration of Governor Inuwa Yahaya had made significant investments to tackle water scarcity despite poor returns.

Mr Fawu said that more communities had been connected to the water supply, lamenting that most consumers failed to settle their bills after enjoying the services.

The trend, he said, poses a major challenge to the sustainability of Gombe’s water supply.

“In an effort to address water shortage in the state, Governor Yahaya has constituted a committee under the leadership of his deputy, Manassah Jatau, to look into the production of water, its supply, and revenue generation.

“Since the inception of this administration in 2019 to date, more than N9 billion has been spent on payment for production and distribution of water supply to residents. However, only about N146 million has been realised as revenue, which is not reasonable,” he said.

Mr Fawu said the committee would look into ways to improve the water supply and boost revenue to ensure a steady water supply. He stated that water rates would be reviewed to reflect the present-day reality, emphasising that it was no longer sustainable to use rates fixed over 15 years ago.

According to Mr Fawu, the committee will also recommend technological approaches to enhance revenue collection and ensure a regular water supply.

The commissioner urged consumers to pay their water bills to support governments’ efforts towards boosting water supply and ensuring sustainability.

Nasiru Aliyu, Commissioner for Trade, Industry, and Tourism, said the council also approved N1.068 billion for the continuation of installing solar street lights in the Gombe metropolis.

Mr Aliyu stated that the project would be completed within eight weeks, adding that upon completion, it would enhance security and boost businesses in the metropolis. 

(NAN)