As a result of the severe shortage of water in Gombe State, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya has instructed the Ministry of Water, Environment and Forest Resources, along with other pertinent organizations, to expedite their efforts and swiftly resolve the crisis, in order to reinstate the regular production and distribution of water.

According to a press release issued on Tuesday by the Director of Press, Ismaila Misilli, the governor’s mandate was driven by his profound sympathy for the fundamental requirements and essential provisions of the populace. Furthermore, it emphasized the commitment of his administration to the provision of uninterrupted and continuous water supply to the people.

The statement partly read, “You must fix this problem with immediate effect, I don’t want any delay. We are not ready to take any excuse. You must ensure the production and pumping of water to the people latest by Wednesday.”

Yahaya further emphasized concern over the hardships residents of Gombe are facing as a result of an interruption in power supply caused by vandalism of some poles on the 330KV Jos-Gombe transmission line.

“Acting on the directive, the ministry mobilised its technical teams who are currently working tirelessly to replace the broken down electric poles and repair the power cables to ensure power supply to the water treatment plant at Dadinkowa.

“The Dadinkowa Water Supply Scheme produces approximately 35 million litres of water per day, costing the Gombe State Government N154 million monthly. The treatment plant relies solely on a dedicated power line by Jos Electricity Distribution Company Plc for uninterrupted operation.

“Following combined efforts of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), JED and regional teams from Gombe and Bauchi, the powerline was partially restored sub-optimally with Gombe receiving only 5MW out of which the Tabra pump station receives 0.5MW for pumping water to upper and lower zones for subsequent distribution to communities and households within Gombe metropolis.

“However, following a strong, damaging windstorm on 25th April, 2024, up to 31 electric poles along the Dadinkowa dedicated powerline were damaged which consequentially halted the production, pumping and distribution of water from the treatment plant.

“The technical teams are expected to complete the restoration work on Tuesday 30th April 2024 after which production, pumping and distribution are expected to resume immediately by Wednesday, May 1, 2024, with a resultant adequate supply of water to the people of Gombe metropolis and its environs.”

The state government is grateful for the community’s patience, understanding, and resilience during the difficult situation of severe water scarcity.

“The government also commends the confidence the public has in the government and the firm believes in efforts to resolve the situation without further delay,” the statement added.